Udaipur, known as the “City of Lakes,” is one of India’s most beautiful cities. This guide covers the best things to do in Udaipur, from visiting grand palaces to enjoying peaceful boat rides. Whether you’re planning to explore places to visit in Udaipur in 1 day or looking for unique things to do in Udaipur, this article has everything you need.
Located in Rajasthan, Udaipur attracts millions of visitors every year. The city offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the famous City Palace to the calm waters of Lake Pichola, there are countless things to do in Udaipur with family and friends.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 things to do in Udaipur, including free activities and the best places to visit. We’ll also share tips about hotels in Udaipur and things to do in Udaipur at night. Let’s start your journey through this magical city.
Top Palace Attractions – Must-Visit Royal Sites
This section covers the most important palaces in Udaipur that you cannot miss. These royal buildings show the rich history and amazing architecture of the city.
City Palace – The Crown Jewel of Udaipur
The City Palace is the most famous place among all things to do in Udaipur. Built over 400 years ago, this massive palace complex sits on the banks of Lake Pichola. The palace has 11 different palaces inside it, each with unique designs and stories.
What makes it special:
- Beautiful mirror work and colorful glass windows
- Amazing views of the lake and city
- Museums with royal artifacts and paintings
- Photography spots at every corner
Visitor Information:
- Timing: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM daily
- Entry Fee: ₹300 for Indians, ₹600 for foreigners
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon
- Duration: 2-3 hours
Tips for visitors: Buy tickets online to avoid long queues. Carry water and wear comfortable shoes as there’s a lot of walking involved.
Lake Palace – Floating Marvel on Lake Pichola
The Lake Palace, now a luxury hotel, is one of the most photographed buildings in India. Even if you don’t stay here, you can admire its beauty from various viewpoints around Lake Pichola.
How to experience it:
- Take a boat ride around the palace
- View from City Palace balconies
- Evening photography from Ambrai Ghat
- Sunset views from rooftop restaurants
Sajjangarh Palace (Monsoon Palace) – Hilltop Wonder
Located on a hilltop, Sajjangarh Palace offers the best views of Udaipur city. Built to watch monsoon clouds, this palace is perfect for sunset viewing and is definitely among the unique things to do in Udaipur.
What to expect:
- 360-degree views of Udaipur
- Beautiful sunset and sunrise spots
- Wildlife spotting opportunities
- Cool breeze and peaceful environment
Lake Activities and Water Experiences
Udaipur is called the City of Lakes for good reason. This section covers all the water-related activities and beautiful lakes you can enjoy during your visit.
Lake Pichola – The Heart of Udaipur
Lake Pichola is the most famous lake in Udaipur and offers many activities. A boat ride here is essential among things to do in Udaipur with family.
Activities available:
- Boat rides: ₹400-600 per person for 1-hour rides
- Sunset cruises: Special evening trips with better views
- Photography walks: Along the ghats and promenades
- Lakeside dining: Restaurants with water views
Best boat ride timings:
- Morning: 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM (peaceful and cool)
- Evening: 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM (sunset views)
Fateh Sagar Lake – Adventure and Recreation
Fateh Sagar Lake is perfect for families and adventure lovers. It’s less crowded than Lake Pichola and offers different activities.
What you can do:
- Pedal boating and speed boating
- Visit Nehru Park island
- Enjoy lakeside walks and jogging
- Try local street food at nearby stalls
Udai Sagar Lake – Hidden Gem
For those looking for free things to do in Udaipur, Udai Sagar Lake is perfect. It’s less touristy and offers peaceful moments away from crowds.
Cultural and Religious Sites
Udaipur has many temples and cultural sites that show the spiritual side of the city. These places are important for understanding local traditions and beliefs.
Jagdish Temple – Architectural Marvel
Located near City Palace, Jagdish Temple is a beautiful example of Indo-Aryan architecture. This 350-year-old temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Why visit:
- Intricate stone carvings and sculptures
- Active place of worship with evening prayers
- Free entry and photography allowed
- Close to other major attractions
Best time to visit: Early morning (6 AM) or evening prayers (7 PM) for authentic experience.
Saheliyon Ki Bari – Garden of Maidens
This historic garden was built for royal ladies and their companions. It’s a peaceful place with fountains, lotus pools, and marble pavilions.
Highlights:
- Beautiful fountains (working since 1710s)
- Peaceful walking paths
- Perfect for morning visits
- Great for photography
Entry fee: ₹50 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners
Markets and Shopping Destinations
Shopping is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Udaipur. The city offers everything from traditional handicrafts to modern items in colorful markets.
Hathi Pol Bazaar – Traditional Handicrafts
This market is famous for miniature paintings, wooden toys, and traditional Rajasthani items. It’s located near the City Palace, making it convenient to visit.
What to buy:
- Miniature paintings (₹500-5000)
- Wooden elephants and camels
- Traditional jewelry
- Colorful textiles and fabrics
Shopping tips: Always bargain politely. Start at 50% of the asking price and settle around 70%.
Shilpgram – Artisan Village
Shilpgram is a living museum where you can see artisans working and buy directly from makers. It’s one of the unique things to do in Udaipur for culture lovers.
Experiences available:
- Watch artisans create pottery, textiles, and paintings
- Try your hand at traditional crafts
- Enjoy folk dance performances
- Buy authentic handmade items
Food and Dining Experiences
Food is an important part of any trip. Udaipur offers amazing dining options, from street food to rooftop restaurants with lake views.
Rooftop Restaurants with Lake Views
Dining with a view is among the top things to do in Udaipur at night. Many restaurants offer stunning lake views along with delicious food.
Recommended restaurants:
- Ambrai Restaurant: Best Lake Pichola views, ₹1500-2500 per person
- Upre by 1559 AD: Royal dining experience, ₹2000-3000 per person
- Jagat Niwas Palace Restaurant: Budget-friendly with great views, ₹800-1200 per person
Street Food and Local Delicacies
Trying local food is one of the best free things to do in Udaipur (almost free!). The city offers many delicious and affordable options.
Must-try dishes:
- Dal Baati Churma: Traditional Rajasthani meal (₹150-250)
- Kachori and Samosa: Perfect breakfast or snacks (₹20-50)
- Ghewar: Sweet dessert, especially during festivals (₹100-200)
- Lassi: Refreshing yogurt drink (₹50-100)
Best areas for street food: Clock Tower area, Ghanta Ghar, and near Jagdish Temple.
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
For those who love adventure and outdoor fun, Udaipur offers several exciting activities. These experiences let you explore the natural beauty around the city.
Hot Air Balloon Rides
Hot air balloon rides offer breathtaking views of Udaipur from the sky. This is definitely among the unique things to do in Udaipur that creates unforgettable memories.
Experience details:
- Duration: 1 hour flight time
- Cost: ₹8000-12000 per person
- Best time: October to March, early morning flights
- Booking: Advance booking required, weather dependent
Cycling Tours Around the City
Cycling is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore Udaipur. Many companies offer guided tours that cover major attractions and hidden gems.
Tour options:
- City Heritage Tour: 3-4 hours, ₹1500-2000 per person
- Lake Circuit Tour: 2-3 hours, ₹1000-1500 per person
- Village Tour: Full day, ₹2500-3500 per person
Day Trip Destinations from Udaipur
If you have extra time, there are several beautiful places near Udaipur worth visiting. These day trips add more variety to your travel experience.
Kumbhalgarh Fort – The Great Wall of India
Located 85 km from Udaipur, Kumbhalgarh Fort has the second-longest wall in the world after the Great Wall of China. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and perfect for a day trip.
What to see:
- Massive fort walls stretching 36 km
- Beautiful views of Aravalli hills
- Light and sound show in the evening
- Wildlife sanctuary nearby
Travel time: 2 hours by car each way
Ranakpur Jain Temple – Architectural Wonder
This stunning marble temple is famous for its 1444 unique pillars. It’s one of the most important Jain temples in India and a masterpiece of architecture.
Highlights:
- Intricate marble carvings
- Peaceful spiritual atmosphere
- Photography allowed (with permission)
- Beautiful surrounding hills
Distance from Udaipur: 90 km (2.5 hours drive)
Family-Friendly Activities
Udaipur is perfect for family trips. This section covers activities and places that are especially good for families with children and elderly members.
Vintage Car Museum
The Vintage Car Museum displays the royal family’s collection of classic cars. Kids and car enthusiasts love this place, making it one of the best things to do in Udaipur with family.
What you’ll see:
- Over 20 vintage cars including Rolls Royce and Cadillac
- Royal family’s personal vehicles
- Interesting stories about each car
- Photo opportunities with classic cars
Details:
- Timing: 9 AM to 9 PM daily
- Entry fee: ₹250 for adults, ₹150 for children
- Duration: 1-1.5 hours
Sukhadia Circle and Garden
This circular garden with a fountain is perfect for evening walks with family. It’s a popular local spot and offers a glimpse into daily life in Udaipur.
Activities for families:
- Evening walks around the circle
- Boat rides in the small lake
- Local food stalls and ice cream
- Playground area for children
Nightlife and Evening Entertainment
While Udaipur is not known for wild nightlife, there are several pleasant things to do in Udaipur at night that families and couples can enjoy.
Cultural Shows and Performances
Many hotels and cultural centers organize traditional dance and music shows in the evening. These performances showcase Rajasthani culture and are entertaining for all ages.
Where to catch shows:
- Bagore Ki Haveli: Daily shows at 7 PM, ₹150 per person
- City Palace: Special evening events (check schedule)
- Luxury hotels: Often have cultural programs for guests
Evening Boat Rides and Dinner Cruises
Sunset boat rides on Lake Pichola are magical. Some operators also offer dinner cruises with traditional music and dance.
Options available:
- Regular sunset cruise: ₹400-600 per person
- Dinner cruise: ₹1500-2500 per person with meal
- Private boat rental: ₹3000-5000 for groups
Budget-Friendly and Free Activities
Traveling doesn’t have to be expensive. This section covers free things to do in Udaipur and budget-friendly options that don’t compromise on experience.
Walking Tours and Self-Guided Exploration
Walking around Udaipur’s old city is free and offers authentic experiences. The narrow lanes, old buildings, and local life provide endless photo opportunities.
Best walking routes:
- City Palace to Jagdish Temple: 30 minutes, historical buildings
- Ambrai Ghat to Gangaur Ghat: 45 minutes, lakeside walk
- Clock Tower area: 1 hour, local markets and food
Sunrise and Sunset Viewing Points
Watching sunrise and sunset is completely free and creates beautiful memories. Udaipur has several perfect spots for this.
Best viewpoints:
- Sajjangarh Palace: ₹50 entry fee but amazing sunset views
- Ambrai Ghat: Free lakeside sunset viewing
- City Palace terraces: Free with palace entry ticket
- Fateh Sagar Lake: Free sunrise views
Accommodation Options and Hotels in Udaipur
Choosing the right place to stay can make your trip much better. This section covers different types of hotels in Udaipur for various budgets and preferences.
Luxury Heritage Hotels
Udaipur has some of the world’s most beautiful heritage hotels. Staying in a palace is a unique experience, though it comes at a premium price.
Top luxury options:
- Taj Lake Palace: ₹40,000-80,000 per night, floating palace experience
- The Oberoi Udaivilas: ₹35,000-60,000 per night, luxury with lake views
- Fateh Prakash Palace: ₹15,000-25,000 per night, part of City Palace
Mid-Range and Budget Hotels
There are many comfortable mid-range and budget hotels in Udaipur that offer good value for money.
Recommended options:
- Hotel Lakend: ₹3000-5000 per night, lake views
- Hotel Udai Kothi: ₹2000-3500 per night, heritage-style
- Zostel Udaipur: ₹800-1500 per night, backpacker-friendly
Best Time to Visit
Planning your trip at the right time and knowing useful tips can make your Udaipur experience much more enjoyable and comfortable.
Weather and Seasonal Information
Udaipur has three main seasons, and each offers different experiences. The best time affects what things to do in Udaipur you can enjoy most.
Season breakdown:
- Winter (October-March): Best time, pleasant weather, ₹₹₹ higher prices
- Summer (April-June): Very hot, fewer crowds, ₹ budget-friendly
- Monsoon (July-September): Beautiful greenery, some attractions may close
Transportation and Getting Around
Getting around Udaipur is easy with various transportation options available for different budgets and preferences.
Transportation options:
- Auto-rickshaws: ₹50-200 for city rides, always negotiate
- Taxis: ₹1000-1500 for full day, comfortable for families
- City buses: ₹10-20 per ride, budget-friendly but crowded
- Rental bikes/scooters: ₹300-500 per day, freedom to explore
Nearby Destinations and Extended Itineraries
If you’re planning a longer trip in Rajasthan, there are several other beautiful cities near Udaipur. This section helps you plan extended itineraries.
Udaipur to Mount Abu – Hill Station Experience
Mount Abu is Rajasthan’s only hill station and offers a different experience from desert cities. The Udaipur to Mount Abu journey takes about 3 hours by car.
What Mount Abu offers:
- Cool weather and beautiful views
- Dilwara Jain Temples with intricate marble work
- Nakki Lake for boating
- Sunset Point for evening views
Things to do in Mount Abu:
- Temple visits and spiritual experiences
- Nature walks and hiking
- Boating and lake activities
- Shopping for local handicrafts
Golden Triangle Extension – Jaipur and Beyond
Many travelers combine Udaipur with other Rajasthan cities. Here are popular combinations:
Jaipur (280 km from Udaipur):
- Things to do in Jaipur: Amber Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal
- Travel time: 5-6 hours by car or train
Jodhpur (250 km from Udaipur):
- Things to do in Jodhpur: Mehrangarh Fort, blue city exploration
- Travel time: 4-5 hours by car
Jaisalmer (350 km from Udaipur):
- Things to do in Jaisalmer: Desert safari, golden fort, camel rides
- Travel time: 6-7 hours by car
Also Read: Best Weekend Getaways From Delhi
Practical Information and Final Tips
This final section provides important practical information that will help you plan and enjoy your trip to Udaipur without any problems.
Budget Planning and Cost Estimates
Understanding costs helps you plan better. Here’s a realistic breakdown of expenses for different types of travelers.
Daily budget estimates per person:
- Budget travel: ₹1500-2500 (hostels, street food, public transport)
- Mid-range travel: ₹3000-5000 (decent hotels, mix of restaurants, private transport)
- Luxury travel: ₹8000-15000+ (heritage hotels, fine dining, private guides)
Essential Travel Tips
Important reminders:
- Carry sunscreen and water, especially in summer
- Dress modestly when visiting temples
- Keep copies of important documents
- Learn basic Hindi phrases for better local interaction
- Respect local customs and photography rules
Conclusion
Udaipur truly offers something for everyone. From the grandeur of City Palace to peaceful boat rides on Lake Pichola, the things to do in Udaipur create memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re interested in places to visit in Udaipur in 1 day or planning a longer stay, this comprehensive guide covers all the essential experiences.
The city perfectly balances history, culture, and natural beauty. Families can enjoy heritage sites and boat rides, while adventure seekers can try hot air ballooning and cycling tours. Food lovers will appreciate both street food and fine dining with lake views. The various hotels in Udaipur cater to all budgets, from luxury palaces to comfortable guesthouses.
Remember that the best things to do in Udaipur often involve simply soaking in the atmosphere – watching sunsets over the lakes, walking through ancient streets, and experiencing the warmth of Rajasthani hospitality. Plan your visit during the cooler months for the most comfortable experience, and don’t forget to explore nearby destinations like Mount Abu for a complete Rajasthan adventure.