Top 15 Tourist Attractions in Udaipur

Holding the essence of Rajputana glory, Udaipur stands proudly amid the shimmering Lake Pichola and dense Aravali Hills. A popular tourist destination in Rajasthan, Udaipur is well-known as the City of Lakes. The city is noted for its rich culture and tradition. In the remembrance of its founder, Maharana Udai Singh II, the city houses numerous historical forts, palaces and monuments. The city offers an opportunity to explore and flip back the pages of the glorious past of the country.

When it comes to Udaipur, there is no dearth of attractions. Udaipur opens its arms to make every traveler indulge in the opulence of the magnificent forts, beautiful temples, serene lakes, alluring palaces and museums. The city spreads the magic of romance and sways away every heart with its royal charms. The captivating surroundings of the city add to its charms and make it more captivating.

As there are a number of tourist attractions in Udaipur, you are likely to get confused as to which place to visit in Udaipur. To make it easier for you, we have listed below the top tourist attractions in Udaipur which will help you plan your trip to the city:

City Palace Complex

Front view of the City Palace complex in Udaipur

A beautiful palace complex set in the heart of Udaipur city, the City Palace is one of the biggest palaces in Rajasthan. The City Palace was built back in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh. The palace complex is located on the eastern bank of Lake Pichola and there are many palaces built within this complex. The City palace stands as a symbol of rich heritage of India and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Udaipur.

The palace features an amalgam of Mughal and Rajasthani architectural styles. A fusion of two different styles adds to the colors of the palace. The key highlights of the palace include Amar Vilas, Badi Mahal, Moti Mahal, Durbar Hall and Jagdish Mandir. The City Palace offers a panoramic view of the city and its alluring surroundings which include different historic monuments like Lake Palace, Jag Mandir, Jagdish Temple and Monsoon Palace.

The City Palace complex offers a variety of regal attractions. Begin with Udaipur City Palace Museum, flip back the pages of the history of Maharanas of Mewar and get to know about their culture and royalty. This oldest part of the city palace complex, features a mix of Mughal and British architecture.

Just opposite the museum is the Durbar Hall which is currently used as a banquet hall. Earlier, the Durbar Hall was used to serve the royal audiences. You really won’t be able to take off your eyes from the seven crystal chandeliers which enhance the beauty of this hall.

And what could be better than having a look at the largest private collection of crystals in the world at the Crystal Gallery.

The city palace complex lets you enjoy a royal stay with its two authentic palace hotels – Shiv Niwas Palace Hotel and Fateh Prakash Palace Hotel. These heritage hotels of Udaipur offer services that feature authentic royal charm and hospitality. The hotels also serve as exclusive venues for royal weddings.

Interesting Trivia

• The city palace has been the location of shooting of some popular Hollywood and Bollywood movies. The City Palace complex was used as a hotel in the famous James Bond movie, Octopussy in 1985. The palace also features the Lake Palace and the Monsoon Palace. Also, the palace was used for filming a part of the famous Bollywood movie, Goliyon ki Raasleela Ram- Leela. 

• Udaipur is rated among the top cities in the World’s best awards by travel and leisure. 

• Shiv Niwas Palace Hotel has won three National Tourism Awards for best heritage hotel in the “Heritage Grand” category. Fateh Prakash Hotel on the other hand has won five National Tourism Awards for best heritage hotel in the “Heritage Grand” category.

Entry Fee

For Indians: INR 75 per person
For foreign tourists: INR 300 per person
For children: INR 40 per child

Guide charges

Audio guide: INR 250 (available in English, French, German or Spanish)
Human guide: INR 150 for up to five people

Opening and closing timings  

City Palace is open all days of the week from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

Jagniwas ( Taj Lake Palace)

Taj Lake Palace (Jagniwas) in Udaipur, Rajasthan

Set amid Lake Pichola, Jagniwas, rated the most romantic hotel in India, was built by Maharana Jagat Singh II in the year 1754. Originally, the palace was named Jag Niwas after the name of the Maharana. Floating in the midst of the shimmering Lake Pichola with the stark Aravalis in the backdrop and featuring grandiose and at the same time elegant and seamless fusion of Victorian, Rajputana and Islamic architecture, the Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur is undoubtedly one of the best heritage hotels in India.

Stretching across an area of four acres, the palace promises to sway away every heart with its unmatched beauty. The architecture of the Lake Palace is immensely beautiful and intricate. This luxury hotel in Udaipur has a number of courtyards which have gardens, terraces and fountains. The palace also houses different rooms by the name of Bada Mahal, Khush Mahal, Ajjan Niwas and Phool Mahal. The Taj Lake Palace also features Sajjan Niwas Suite which is one of the most expensive hotel suites in India.

If you are looking either for a romantic stay or royal indulgence, Jagniwas or the Taj Lake Palace is one of the best and most luxurious places to stay in Udaipur. Do check out the award winning Jiva Spa where you could avail of therapeutic massages and beauty treatments by experts to rejuvenate youself and reclaim balance of body, mind and soul.

[ Read More about Taj Lake Palace ]

Lake Pichola

Lake Pichola - One of the Best Lake attached Heritage Hotel in Udaipur,Rajasthan

 The crowning glory of Udaipur, Pichola Lake is a beautiful artificial lake. The lake was made back in the 14th century to meet the shortage of water in the village called Picholi. The craggy Aravali Hills form the backdrop of this lake which the lake more picturesque. The backdrop and tranquility of the lake enhances the beauty of the lake.

The key highlights of the place are the four islands which are set in the lake. The four islands are Jag Niwas, Jag Mandir, Mohan Mandir and Arsi Vilas.

Pichola Lake is a must visit for nature lovers and bird watchers as one can spot a variety of birds near the lake such as tufted ducks, coots, egrets, terns, cormorants and kingfishers.

Though there are a number of things to do in Udaipur, you really can’t afford to miss visiting this beautiful lake.

Ahar

Ahar - A group of royal cenotaphs

Yet another in our list of most popular tourist attractions in Udaipur is Ahar, the royal cremation ground of Udaipur set at a distance of around 3km from the city. The place houses around 372 cenotaphs of Maharanas and queens of Mewar set amidst bulbous cupolas and white marble chhatris.

The site also has an Ahar Archaeological Museum which has antiques and excavations from the 10th century. The museum also has copper and pottery objects which are around 3300 years old. Also, there are sculptures of Hindu gods and Jain Tirthankars which date back to the 8th to 16th centuries AD. The place is a must visit for nature lovers, photographers and experience seekers. The museum remains closed on Fridays and national holidays.

Ambrai Ghat

Ambrai Ghat in Udaipur, Rajasthan

Arguably the most popular attractions of Udaipur, Ambrai Ghat is a unique site located just opposite the City Palace and Lake Palace hotel.

The attraction is a famous hangout place for couples because of the enthralling views it offers. And you really can’t afford to miss the breathtaking sunset sight which the Ghat offers. To enjoy the beauty of the surroundings to the fullest, you can take a boat ride which is available near Pichola Lake.

Ambrai Ghat is one of the most popular tourist places to visit in Udaipur as it offers the best photo ops to shoot the panorama that include sight of shimmering Lake Palace that appears floating in the azure waters of Lake Pichola with the burnished Aravalis hill in the backdrop.

Lake Fatehsagar Udaipur

Lake Fatehsagar in Udaipur,Rajasthan

The Fatehsagar Lake, a popular place for sightseeing in Udaipur, is an artificial lake which was made by Maharana Jai Singh in the year 1678. The lake is one among the must-visit places in Rajasthan. Set to the north of Lake Pichola, the lake is immensely beautiful and serene. The lush green surroundings add to the beauty of the lake.

Fatehsagar Lake is a famous picnic spot in Udaipur and people from all over visit the place to spend some great time with their friends and family.  At the lake, you can also enjoy high speed boating.

Jag Mandir

Jag Mandir in Udaipur

Constructed way back in 17th Century, Jag Mandir with its romantic location is one of the most popular venues for royal weddings in India. Located in the heart of the Lake Pichola, this spectacular palace was used by the Maharanas of Mewar Kingdom as a summer resort and pleasure palace where parties were organized yet another testimony to the oozing romance that pervades this palace complex.

The entire structure is architecturally beautiful. Apart from the central building of the palace, there are many set of structures around. The three-storied structure has sections such as Gul Mahal, the Darikhana and the Bara Patharon ka Mahal. The palace makes you flip back the pages of the glorious past of the Mewar Kingdom. History buffs, photographers and nature lovers really can’t afford to miss a visit to the palace.

Jagdish Temple

Jagdish Temple in Udaipur

Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the Jagdish Temple is set in the City Palace complex. The entrance of the temple is spectacular as two elephants greet you at the entry gate. The temple is famous for its intricately carved pillars and doorways. The main temple has a large four armed image of Lord Vishnu which has been carved out of a single black rock.

You will find many more idols in temple including that of Goddess Shakti, Lord Shiva, the Sun God and Lord Ganesha. People from all over Rajasthan visit Jagdish Temple, one of the most significant temples in Udaipur to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu and attend the special aarti.

Sahelion-ki-Bari

Sahelion ki Bari in Udaipur

Built back in 1710, Saheliyon-ki-Bari was built by Sangram Singh II. Sahelion-ki-Bari is an alluring garden which was laid for the enjoyment of the 48 women attendants who came with the princess as dowry.

The architecture of the garden is truly alluring which makes it one among the top tourist attractions of Udaipur. The key attractions of the place include fountains, kiosks, lotus pool and marble elephants. The charm of this garden is further enhanced by lush green lawns and colorful flowers. There is also a museum in the garden where you can find a great collection from royal households. The museum has ancient pictures and items from the bygone era. Walk through the garden and spend some time amid tranquility and beauty.

Eklingji Temple

Eklingji Temple - A architectural marvel

One of the most visited attractions in Rajasthan, Eklingji Temple is located at a distance of 22 km from Udaipur city. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple was built back in 734 A.D. by Bappa Rawal.

The double-storied temple is architecturally beautiful and its pyramidal design adds to the beauty and uniqueness of the temple. The temple has a huge four-faced idol of Eklingji (Lord Shiva) which is developed out of a dark stone.  The idol is around 50 feet in height and the four faces are of Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, Rudra and Surya. Visit the temple to explore the untold stories behind each and every corner.

[ Read More about Top Temple in India ]

Shilpgram

Shilpgram - the Rural Arts and Crafts Complex

Shilpgram is a unique craft village which displays the local art and culture of Rajasthan. The uniqueness of this craft village makes it one of the top tourist attractions in Udaipur. The fair is organized every year in November/December.

The fair is a must-visit for shopaholics. The place has much to offer when it comes to shopping. You get to buy from a variety of beautiful handicrafts, hand-woven clothes, mirror work and embroidery work items. Visit the fair and witness the creativity of local artisans and craftsmen.

There are many food stalls in the fair from where you can enjoy lip smacking snacks and dishes from local Rajasthani cuisine.

Hathipole

Hathipole - Quality Handmade Stone Inlay Tabletops

Counted among the top tourist attractions in Udaipur, Hathipole is a popular market of the city. The market features different type of handicraft and folk arts of Rajasthan. The place is a must visit for shopaholics as they get to choose from a variety of colorful and beautiful items. The main attraction of the market is the famous Rajasthani Miniature Paintings. Explore the colorful side of Rajasthan and take back a unique shopping experience. Don’t forget to relish on those refreshments offered by roadside stalls.

Bagore ki Haveli

Bagore ki Haveli in Udaipur

Bagore Ki Haveli is one of the most popular attractions of Udaipur. Set on Pichola Lake, the haveli is well-known for its architectural splendor. The grand structure takes you back to the royal life of the Maharajas and Maharanis of the Mewar Kingdom. The structure has 100 rooms and every room features beautiful decoration with mirror work. You can find jewelry boxes, hukkas, pan boxes, hand fans, copper vessels, nut crackers and paintings. The evening dance and music show is star attraction of the haveli. Also, the place offers a great look of the Pichola Lake and the surroundings.

Bhartiya Lok Kala Museum

Bhartiya Lok Kala Mandal – Enriched with The Cocooned Heritage

Also known as Udaipur Folk Museum, Bhartiya Lok Kala Museum is one the most popular attractions in Rajasthan. The museum presents a rare collection of ornaments, rural dresses, dolls, puppets and masks. The collection of traditional Rajasthani folk articles is great and it makes people visit the museum from different parts of the country. The museum is a must-visit for those who wish to explore the cultural diversity of Rajasthan.

To maintain the richness of the colorful Rajasthani tradition, The Bharatiya Lok Kala Mandir has started an institute. The institute is focused on encouraging the local crafts and art of Mewar.

Monsoon Palace

Monsoon Palace in Udaipur, Rajasthan

Perched on the top of a hill, the Monsoon Palace is located at a distance of 5km from Udaipur. Originally known as the Sajjan Garh Palace, the structure is architecturally beautiful and mesmerizing. The palace was built back in 1884 by Maharana Sajjan Singh.

The palace features multiple jharokas, pillars and balconies which are intricately carved. The beauty of the palace takes you back to the glorious past of the Mewar Kingdom. Monsoon Palace is known for its breathtaking sunset view. Also, there is Sajjangarh Wildlife sanctuary nearby where you can visit to make your tour more entertaining and exciting.

[ Check out Udaipur tour packages at IndianHoliday.com]

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