Udaipur – Complete Travel Guide 2024

Located in the state of Rajasthan, Udaipur is famously known as the ‘Venice of the east. ‘ It is oozing with exotic palaces, beautiful lakes, and a vibrant cultural background which makes it more of a paradise for history lovers and architecture enthusiasts. For the historians, explorers of wildlife or just plain old tourists looking for a touch of the opulent, the city of Udaipur does not disappoint. It is time to discover more about the pull of this incredible city and why it’s simply unmissable.

The Lakes of Udaipur: A Glimpse into Paradise

It is dominantly famous for the breathtaking natural beauty of the lakes which are scattered all over Udaipur. Some of the major tourist attractions include the city’s largest and most famous artificial lake, the Lake Pichola which was developed in the 14th century. On its surface there are many hills, palaces and temples that can be seen in the mirrored surface of the water. Boating at Lake Pichola particularly in the evening is very beautiful as the sky changes its color to that of red and orange.

Another great attraction is called Fateh Sagar Lake, which is connected to the previously mentioned Lake Pichola by a channel. Located besides the Aravalli hills, Fateh Sagar Lake is a favourite tourist and city centre. This relatively large lake is home to three islands, one of which contains the delightful Nehru Park ideal for picnicking and gentle strolling. The Fateh Sagar Lake especially boating provides the magnificent view of the greenish land and gentle hills in faraway distance.

The Gardens: Green Oases of Tranquility

Bathed in history and heritage, Udaipur also has beautifully landscaped gardens that give the place a serene touch. This piece of information brings us to Saheliyon Ki Bari, also known as the Garden of the Maidens. Constructed by Maharana Sangram Singh for the ladies of the royal household, this garden too houses fountains, lotus pools, marble pavilions and cute fountains in the shape of elephants. It’s an ideal place for leisure and meditation due to the excellent condition of the gardens and the sound of the water.

Another important garden is the Gulab Bagh, which is the biggest garden in Udaipur and occupies more than 100 hectares of the city territory. It has numerous types of roses, which makes it a paradise for those who appreciate the wonders of nature. Besides, there is the garden zoo, the garden library, and several water bodies where people of all ages can have a serene time.

The Cultural Extravaganza: Festivals and Traditions

Holding true to these values, Udaipur is famous for its vibrant festivals and vibrant culture. The most famous festivals are Mewar Festival which is celebrated with a lot of enthusiasm throughout March or April. It is celebrated to welcome the onset of springs and people celebrate the day by dancing on the streets, playing music, and by putting up spectacular firework show. The climax of the festival is the occasion during which the decorated idols of Isar and Gangaur are ceremoniously taken in boats to Lake Pichola, where they are immersed in its waters to signify the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

Another variant of a cultural fair is the Shilpgram Crafts Fair conducted in December. This fair exhibits a plethora of traditional handicrafts, home furnishings, textiles, and paintings of Rajasthan and other states for the talent of the local artists to be nurtured. Souvenir shopping can be done within the area, watch the traditional dance and music performances and even taste Rajasthani food.

The Culinary Delights: A Feast for the Senses

Having a meal on the streets of Udaipur is something I love to do especially when visiting this city. The city clearly has a huge choice of eating places and that ranges from hawkers on the street to elaborate restaurants. The traditional Rajasthani food uses big varieties of spices and is generally spicy and highly aromatic. And for the food, do not give a pass to the iconic Dal Baati Churma, which is a spicy dal, baked wheat balls, and a Gnashya or sweetened cereal. Yet another non-vegetarian delicacies that one cannot afford to miss is Laal Maas, which is a mutton curry prepared on high flame.

If , for instance, one is interested in heritage dining, then there is Ambrai Restaurant located on the shore of Lake Pichola. This being an open air restaurant you have a close view of the City Palace, the Lake Palace and of course the Jag Mandir making the beauty of the place more enchanting as you eat. There is also Jagat Niwas Palace with the restaurant situated on the roof and it overlooks the lake and the city.

Exploring Beyond: Excursions Around Udaipur

There is much to explore in the city of Udaipur itself, but getting out of the city has many interesting places to offer as well. One of the largest forts in Rajasthan, Kumbhalgarh is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located over 85 kms from Udaipur. This great fortress possesses rather enormous walls which are averaging 36 kilometer in Great Wall of China length. The fort with its splendid view of the Aravalli ranges would surely impress any ardent lover of the history and the fort is an ideal place for them and the adventure lovers also.

One of the nearest tourist attractions is the Ranakpur Jain Temple situated in the vicinity of 90 kilometers from Udaipur. This breathtaking temple is a Jain temple which was built in honour of Adinath the first Jain Tirthankara is worth visiting because of its marvellous carved marble design. The temple complex is located in rather sparse land, thus making the environment quite spiritual and more so beautiful.

Conclusion: A Timeless Jewel

Udaipur is also known as the “Venice of the East” because of the series of lakes, beautiful palaces, culture and food that the place offers. Exploring the provincial historical sites, taking a cruise on the beautiful lakes, or sampling the famous and yummy Mewari cuisines, the place will not disappoint you. Therefore, do make your travel arrangement and set yourself to go on a royal tour with this city which carries the primitive beauty of time.

Pro Tip for Travelers:

For those who wish to get optimum results at the instance, it would be advisable to embark on the journey at winter when the weather is cool favoring sight seeing activities from October to March. But the most important thing that should not be forgotten is a good camera to take beautiful views and great wonderful moments to shot in this wonderful city – Udaipur.