Udaipur Tourism And Travel Guide

The city of Lakes, Udaipur is home to Asia’s largest man-made lake, the Jaisamand Lake. Founded by Maharaja Udai Singh II, the erstwhile capital of Mewar, this beautiful city is known for its palaces, forts, gardens and romantic backdrops. While many choose Udaipur as their wedding destination, others travel to this city for their honeymoon or special festivals like Holi, Gangaur or Diwali. This makes tourism in Udaipur almost a year-round affair. Here is a travel guide to help you prepare your trip to Udaipur. 

By Air:

Maharana Pratap Airport is just 25 kms north-east of the city of Udaipur. Daily flights from Mumbai, New Delhi and Jaipur connect Udaipur to other cities of India. Practically the entire world is connected to Udaipur via indirect flights through New Delhi and Mumbai.

By Rail:

Udaipur has many trains connecting it to all of Rajasthan as well as other parts on India. Trains ply daily to and from the cities of New Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Ahmadabad, Chittorgarh, Sawai Madhopur, Ajmer, etc.

By Road:

The efficient bus service in Rajasthan connects Udaipur to other cities within the state. Private operators as well as Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation run inter-state buses to nearby states. At times these bus connections turn out to be faster than the railways, especially within the state. If you choose to drive down to Udaipur, the national Highways NH76, NH8 and NH76 are the ones that would lead you there. 

Udaipur primarily has a tropical type of climate with three distinct seasons. Hot summers with temperatures rising above 40^o Celsuis and distinct monsoons with moderate rainfalls characterised by dust and thunderstorms are seen in Udaipur. Winters are pleasant here with sunny days and cool nights. The short but distinct monsoon season in Udaipur enhances the beauty of the city with lush greens and enchanting lakes.

Lakes and palaces:

Aptly called the city of lakes, Udaipur boasts of some truly beautiful water bodies. You must make it a point to visit the Pichola Lake with the City Palace towering over it. The Jagmandir Palace is also situated on Pichola Lake and legend has it that Shahjehan was so enchanted by the palace that he commissioned a similar mausoleum for his beloved wife which is today known as the Taj Mahal! Other lakes and palaces you should visit are Fateh Sagar Lake, Lake Palace and the Monsoon Palace.

Fatehprakash Palace:

Arguably the most exotic section of the City Palace, The Fatehprakash palace has been converted into a luxury hotel and is inaccessible for public viewing. The palace has a crystal gallery with beds, crockery, table fountains, etc. made of crystal. If you’re willing to splurge, this section is a treat to the eyes and the stay here will be nothing less than royalty at its best, but it is sure to leave a hole in your pocket.

Fairs and Festivals:

Udaipur is a riot of colours during the fairs of Mewar and Kumbhalagarh. In case you are planning a trip to Udaipur, we suggest you plan your itinerary to include these festivals. The Mewar as well as Kumbhalgarh festivals celebrate the culture and heritage of Rajasthan with folk dances, music, light and sound shows and traditional cuisine. The 10 day Shilpgram Festival in December works towards creating awareness about rural life and crafts among the visitors.  Shilpgram, located 3 kms away from Udaipur, could also be your souvenir shopping point.

Dances:

The folk dance performances here are a delight to watch. Do watch the Dharohar dance show at Bagore ki Haveli and the Kathputli show at the Bharatiya Lok Kala Mandir. The Dharohar dance under the starlit sky with comfortable seating in beautifully lit balconies is sure to give you an unforgettable evening.

Do not miss a meal fit for the Maharajas at the Jagat Niwas Palace Hotel. The rooftop restaurant offers some of the best Indian food you will eat in Udaipur with breathtaking views of the Pichola Lake and the palace.