Udaipur

Udaipur, popularly known as the City of Lakes, is one of Rajasthan’s most romantic and visually captivating destinations. Set among the green hills of the Aravallis, the city combines shimmering lakes, grand Mewar-era palaces, historic havelis, colourful markets and a distinctly relaxed atmosphere. Founded in 1553 by Maharana Udai Singh II as the capital of Mewar, Udaipur offers a fascinating blend of royal history and everyday Rajasthani culture.

At the heart of the city is Lake Pichola, surrounded by hills, ghats, palaces and old-city architecture. A boat ride on the lake, particularly around sunset, is one of Udaipur’s signature experiences, offering beautiful views of the City Palace, Jag Mandir and Lake Palace reflected in the water. The lake itself contains the islands of Jagniwas and Jagmandir, adding to the distinctive landscape that has made Udaipur famous.

The City Palace is another essential part of the Udaipur experience. Rising above Lake Pichola, this vast complex combines courtyards, balconies, towers, gardens and richly decorated interiors that reflect the history of the Mewar dynasty. The Mor Chowk, with its intricate peacock mosaics, is among its particularly notable features.

Things to Experience in Udaipur

Beyond the City Palace and Lake Pichola, Udaipur offers plenty of opportunities to explore its heritage at a slower pace. Jag Mandir, an island palace in Lake Pichola, is surrounded by water and offers a beautiful perspective of the city. Bagore Ki Haveli, located near Gangaur Ghat, provides another glimpse into traditional Rajasthani architecture, costumes and decorative arts.

For panoramic views, Sajjangarh (Monsoon Palace) sits on a hill overlooking the surrounding landscape and is particularly rewarding around sunset. Fateh Sagar Lake, Doodh Talai, Saheliyon Ki Bari and Moti Magri add further variety to a Udaipur itinerary. Saheliyon Ki Bari, with its fountains, marble elements and lotus pool, was originally developed as a garden for the royal women.

Udaipur is also a destination for simply wandering. Explore the narrow lanes around the old city, browse traditional crafts at markets such as Hathi Pol, stop at a rooftop café overlooking the lake, or take a slow walk along the ghats. The combination of water, palaces and Aravalli hills gives the city a distinctly cinematic atmosphere, and its lakes and historic architecture have long attracted filmmakers.

For travellers interested in art and culture, Shilpgram, a rural arts and crafts complex near Fateh Sagar Lake, showcases traditional lifestyles and crafts from western India.

A 2–3 day trip is ideal for experiencing Udaipur’s major highlights without rushing. But the city is best enjoyed when you leave some time unplanned—watch the sunset over Lake Pichola, explore the old streets and simply enjoy the slower rhythm of the lakeside city.

Udaipur isn’t just about royal palaces. It is the combination of lakes, heritage, hills, art and atmosphere that makes the city special—and one of the most memorable places to experience Rajasthan.