12 Unforgettable Things To Do In Udaipur

Udaipur, famously known as the “City of Lakes,” is Rajasthan’s most romantic destination, drawing millions of tourists every year. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the Best things to do in Udaipur, from iconic palaces floating on pristine lakes to hidden cultural gems, vibrant nightlife, and authentic local experiences. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Udaipur offers a mix of royal heritage, natural beauty, and cultural richness that will leave you with lifelong memories.

Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Udaipur

1. Boat Ride on Lake Pichola – The Crown Jewel Experience

Why Visit: The most iconic and romantic experience in Udaipur Best Time: Sunset (6:00 PM – 7:30 PM) Duration: 1 hour Cost: ₹300-500 per person (shared), ₹3,000-5,000 (private boat) Location: City Palace Complex Jetty Lake Pichola, the heart and soul of Udaipur, offers breathtaking views of the City Palace, Lake Palace, and Jag Mandir. An evening boat ride at sunset, with golden rays reflecting on tranquil waters, feels ethereal and embodies romance. What Makes It Special:

Four beautiful islands: Jag Niwas (Lake Palace), Jag Mandir, Arsi Vilas, and Mohan Mandir
Stunning views of the City Palace complex from the water
Perfect photography opportunities
Romantic ambiance is ideal for couples

Pro Tip: Book sunset slots in advance during peak season. Choose the front seats for unobstructed views.

Planning a trip? See whether Jaipur Or Udaipur suits your travel style.

2. Explore the Majestic City Palace Complex

Why Visit: India’s largest royal complex with panoramic city views Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM daily Entry Fee: INR 200 for adults and INR 100 for children (museum & exterior only) Duration: 2-3 hours Audio Guide: ₹200 (highly recommended) The City Palace, a magnificent blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture, houses museums, courtyards, and galleries that showcase royal artifacts, paintings, and a weapons collection. Highlights:

Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard) with stunning mosaics
Crystal Gallery with the world’s largest private crystal collection
Zenana Mahal (Queen’s quarters)
Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace)
Panoramic views of Lake Pichola and the city

Photography Spots: Badi Pol entrance, Palace balconies overlooking the lake, Crystal Gallery

Use this guide to plan your honeymoon in Udaipur trip

3. Marvel at Saheliyon Ki Bari Garden

Why Visit: Most photogenic garden, perfect for couples and nature lovers Timings: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Entry Fee: Rs. 10 per person for Indians and Rs. 50 per person for Foreigners Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon Duration: 1-2 hours Built for the royal ladies, this “Garden of Maidens” features ornate fountains, marble elephants, lotus pools, and lush green lawns. Photography Highlights:

Marble elephant sculptures
Dancing fountains and lotus pools
Beautiful walkways lined with trees
Kiosks and pavilions

Pro Tip: Visit during winter months for blooming flowers and pleasant weather for photography sessions.

4. Experience Royal Heritage at Bagore Ki Haveli

Why Visit: 300-year-old haveli showcasing Mewar culture Timings: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Entry Fee: ₹60 (Indians), ₹100 (Foreigners) Cultural Show: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM daily Show Cost: ₹60 per person The Bagore Ki Haveli is a popular tourist destination in Udaipur, Rajasthan, India. It showcases the region’s rich artistic and architectural traditions. Those interested in history, culture, and experiencing a bygone era of Mewar should visit this site. Must-See Collections:

World’s longest turban (17 meters)
Antique jewelry boxes and hookahs
Traditional dice games and copper vessels
Historic paintings and royal memorabilia
Traditional puppets and musical instruments

Evening Cultural Show Features:

Rajasthani folk dances
Traditional puppet shows
Live music performances
Fire dance and acrobatics

5. Visit the Magnificent Ranakpur Jain Temple

Distance: 96 km from Udaipur (2.5 hours drive) Timings: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM (closed during morning prayers) Entry: Free (donations welcome) Duration: 2-3 hours Best Combined: Day trip with Kumbhalgarh Fort The Ranakpur Jain Temple in Rajasthan, India, is home to the first Tirthankara of Jainism, Adinath. It is famous for its intricate architecture, with 1444 unique pillars, 29 halls, and 80 domes made of white marble. Architectural Marvels:

29 halls with 1,444 carved pillars
No two pillars are identical
Intricate ceiling work and sculptures
Peaceful spiritual atmosphere
Beautiful light play throughout the day

Travel Tip: Combine with Kumbhalgarh Fort visit for a complete day trip. Hire a local guide for detailed history and architecture insights.

6. Witness the Sound and Light Show at Kumbhalgarh Fort

Distance: 85 km from Udaipur Show Timings: 6:45 PM (Hindi), 7:45 PM (English) – Winter; 7:15 PM (Hindi), 8:15 PM (English) – Summer Entry Fee: ₹100 per person Duration: 45 minutes Best Season: October to March Experience the glorious history of Rajputana through this spectacular light and sound show at the mighty Kumbhalgarh Fort. Fort Highlights:

The second-longest wall after the Great Wall of China (36 km)
Birthplace of Maharana Pratap
360 temples within the fort
Stunning Aravalli mountain views

Show Features:

Narration by famous Bollywood actors
Spectacular lighting effects
Historical storytelling through technology
Multiple language options available

7. Seek Blessings at Karni Mata Temple

Location: Machla Magra Hills Timings: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Entry: Free Ropeway Cost: ₹90 (adults), ₹60 (children) Duration: 2-3 hours including ropeway Perched atop a hillock, this temple offers panoramic views of Udaipur city and houses the famous rat temple. Unique Features:

Only temple where rats are worshipped
White rats considered highly auspicious
Spectacular city views from hilltop
Cable car ride adds adventure element
Beautiful sunset viewpoint

Cultural Significance: Visiting this temple is believed to extend life and bring peace and prosperity.

8. Enjoy Thrilling Ropeway Ride

Starting Point: Deen Dayal Park, Dudh Talai Ending Point: Karni Mata Temple, Machla Hills Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Cost: ₹90 (adults), ₹60 (children) Duration: 5 minutes each way Capacity: 6 people per cable car Experience breathtaking aerial views of the City of Lakes during this scenic cable car ride. If you enjoy nature, you should try this activity in Udaipur. Spectacular Views:

Fateh Sagar Lake and surrounding hills
City Palace complex from above
Sajjangarh Palace (Monsoon Palace)
Sprawling city landscape
Aravalli mountain ranges

Best Time: Late afternoon for sunset views and perfect lighting for photography.

9. Shop at Vibrant Hathi Pol Bazaar

Location: Near Jagdish Temple Timings: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Closed: Sundays Bargaining: Expected and encouraged Speciality: Traditional handicrafts and art This bustling market is a treasure trove of authentic Rajasthani handicrafts and souvenirs. Must-Buy Items:

Pichwai and Phad paintings
Miniature paintings on silk and paper
Wooden handicrafts and toys
Traditional puppets (kathputli)
Silver jewelry and artifacts
Textiles and fabrics
Marble sculptures and decorative items

Shopping Tips: Start bargaining at 30-40% of quoted price. Quality varies significantly, so examine items carefully.

10. Stay at Iconic Taj Lake Palace

Why Experience: World’s most romantic hotel floating on a lake Category: Luxury Heritage Hotel Rates: ₹35,000-80,000 per night Booking: Advance reservation is essential Best Season: October to March Guests seeking a luxurious experience should book a stay at Ionic Taj Lake Palace. Even if you do not stay here, enjoying tea or dining at this floating marble palace is an unforgettable experience. Unique Experiences:

Afternoon tea with lake views
Fine dining at Jharokha restaurant
Spa treatments with water views
Royal suite experiences

Alternative Options: Day visits for dining or photography (prior booking required).

11. Explore Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary

Location: 15 km from the city center Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Entry Fee: ₹80 (Indians), ₹500 (Foreigners) Safari Cost: ₹1,500-2,500 per jeep Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon If you love wildlife, you should visit Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary. A visit to this sanctuary is a must for anyone who desires to see tigers in the natural habitat. Wildlife Spotting:

Tigers, leopards, and hyenas
Nilgai, sambhar, and wild boars
Various bird species (great for birdwatching)
Reptiles and smaller mammals

Activities Available:

Jungle safari in open jeeps
Nature walks and trekking
Bird watching tours
Photography expeditions

12. Horse Riding Adventures

Popular Routes: Countryside villages, lake periphery Duration: 1-4 hours (various packages) Cost: ₹1,500-4,000 per person Best Time: Early morning or evening Suitable For: Beginners to experienced riders Horse riding stands as a hallmark of Rajasthan’s rich heritage and exemplifies the valor and pride of the Rajputana legacy. Visiting Udaipur is incomplete without experiencing this noble tradition. Popular Riding Routes:

Village exploration tours
Lake circuit rides
Aravalli hills trails
Sunset riding experiences
Multi-day camping expeditions

What’s Included: Trained horses, safety equipment, experienced guides, and refreshments.

13. Discover Vintage Car Museum

Location: Garden Hotel Complex Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Entry Fee: ₹250 per person Duration: 1-2 hours Photography: ₹100 extra If you love cars, the vintage car museum is a must-visit. You can marvel at the royal automobile collection of the Mewar rulers. Star Attractions:

1924 Rolls Royce (still in working condition)
Mercedes convertibles from 1930s
Cadillac used for hunting expeditions
MG-TC sports car
Custom-modified vehicles for the royal family

Unique Features: The cars are well-maintained and have intriguing stories about their royal usage.

14. Visit Jagdish Temple

Location: City Palace Complex area Timings: 4:00 AM – 11:00 PM Entry: Free (donations welcome) Best Time: Evening aarti (7:00 PM) Duration: 1-2 hours This 17th-century temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, showcases Indo-Aryan architecture. History lovers should definitely visit this temple. Architectural Highlights:

Intricately carved pillars and walls
Beautiful sculptures of gods and goddesses
Pyramid-shaped spire (shikhara)
Regular prayer ceremonies and aarti

15. Experience Shilpgram Arts and Crafts Village

Location: 3 km from city center Timings: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM Entry Fee: ₹30 per person Annual Festival: December (arts and crafts fair) Duration: 2-3 hours It features traditional arts, crafts, and rural lifestyles of Western India. Experiences Available:

Live craft demonstrations
Traditional dance and music performances
Authentic village atmosphere
Pottery and weaving workshops
Cultural immersion programs

Things to Do in Udaipur at Night

Looking to add a touch of romance to your Udaipur getaway? Here are some enchanting experiences you can enjoy in the city after sunset.

1. Sunset Boat Ride on Lake Pichola

Best Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM Cost: ₹300-500 per person Why Special: Golden hour photography and romantic ambiance The evening boat ride offers the most magical experience as the City Palace lights up and reflects in the calm waters.

2. Rooftop Dining with Lake Views

Top Restaurants for Night Dining: Ambrai Restaurant

Location: Amet Haveli, Lake Pichola
Timings: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Cost: ₹2,500-4,000 for couples
Speciality: Lakeside dining with City Palace views

Upre Restaurant

Location: 1559 AD, City Palace
Timings: 7:30 PM – 11:30 PM
Cost: ₹3,000-5,000 for couples
Speciality: Heritage hotel dining with panoramic views

3. Cultural Evening at Bagore Ki Haveli

Show Timings: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM daily Cost: ₹60 per person Features: Folk dance, puppet shows, traditional music performances

4. Night Photography at City Palace

Don’t forget to take photos at the city palace when you visit the city palace. Best Spots: City Palace complex (external), Lake Pichola ghats Golden Hour: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM Blue Hour: 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM Equipment: Tripod recommended for long exposures

5. Evening Stroll at Fateh Sagar Lake

Best Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Activities: Boating, street food, local shopping Cost: ₹200-500 per person, including snacks

6. Bar and Lounge Experiences

Jharokha Bar (Taj Lake Palace)

Premium cocktails with lake views
Dress code: Smart casual
Cost: ₹2,000-4,000 per couple

Sunset Terrace (Leela Palace)

Craft cocktails and international cuisine
Live music on weekends
Cost: ₹1,500-3,000 per couple

Famous Things to Buy in Udaipur

Best Shopping Areas

1. Hathi Pol Bazaar

Speciality: Traditional handicrafts and paintings Best For: Pichwai paintings, miniature art, wooden crafts Bargaining: Start at 40% of the quoted price Timings: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (closed Sundays)

2. Shilpgram

Speciality: Authentic tribal arts and village crafts Best For: Pottery, textiles, traditional jewelry Fixed Prices: Generally, no bargaining Annual Fair: December (best variety and prices)

3. Sadar Bazaar (Clock Tower Market)

Speciality: Textiles, fabrics, and ready-made garments Best For: Rajasthani outfits, bandhani textiles Bargaining: Expected and encouraged Timings: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM

4. Chetak Circle

Speciality: Local handicrafts and souvenirs Best For: Budget shopping, everyday items Crowd: Local market with authentic prices

Adventure Activities in Udaipur

Want to satisfy your adventure soul? Here are a few adventure activities you must do in Udaipur.

1. Hot Air Balloon Rides

Season: October to March Duration: 1 hour flight + 2 hours total experience Cost: ₹12,000-18,000 per person Best Time: Early morning (sunrise flights) Booking: Advance reservation required

2. Vintage Car Rides

Duration: 2-6 hours (various packages) Cost: ₹5,000-15,000 per vehicle Popular Routes: City tour, countryside exploration Vehicles: Classic cars from royal collection

3. Cycling Tours

Duration: 3-8 hours Cost: ₹1,500-3,500 per person Routes: Villages, lakeside, countryside Includes: Bicycle, guide, refreshments

4. Trekking in Aravalli Hills

Popular Trails: Sajjangarh to Bari Lake, Monsoon Palace trek Duration: 2-6 hours Difficulty: Easy to moderate Cost: ₹800-2,000 per person Best Season: October to March

5. Photography Tours

Duration: 4-8 hours Cost: ₹2,000-5,000 per person Speciality: Heritage architecture, local life, landscapes Includes: Professional guide, locations, tips

Conclusion

The city of Udaipur really lives up to its reputation as one of the most romantic and culturally rich in India. There is something for every type of traveler in the City of Lakes, whether you seek ethereal beauty at Lake Pichola or the grandeur of City Palace. You can even go on an adventure or visit a tranquil temple. Udaipur offers a wide range of experiences, including royal luxury hotels, authentic cultural immersion through local markets and performances, and adventure through hot air balloon rides and countryside exploration. Honeymooners, families, solo travelers, and culture enthusiasts alike enjoy the city’s unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. This comprehensive guide to Udaipur’s things to do will help you make the most of this magical city with proper planning. Get ready to fall in love with Rajasthan’s crown jewel, Udaipur – a city where every sunset paints a masterpiece and every corner tells a royal tale. Ready to explore Udaipur? Experience one of the world’s most romantic destinations in the City of Lakes.

FAQs

Q1: How many days are enough for Udaipur?

Ans: Visit major attractions for a minimum of 2-3 days. The ideal duration for the trip is 4-5 days, which includes day trips to Ranakpur and Kumbhalgarh.

Q2: Is Udaipur expensive for tourists?

Ans: Udaipur can be done on any budget. Budget travelers can manage with ₹1,500-2,500 per day, while luxury experiences can cost ₹8,000+ per day.

Q3: What should I not miss in Udaipur?

Ans: Must-do experiences include a Lake Pichola boat ride, a visit to the City Palace, sunset viewing, a cultural show at Bagore Ki Haveli, and trying authentic Rajasthani cuisine.