The places to visit in Udaipur can easily fill a three-day itinerary, but here’s the catch: you probably shouldn’t try to fit them all in. Leave a little space between plans to improve Udaipur. A trip to the palace may turn into an afternoon in the old city, a short ride by the lake may turn into a sunset or the search for dinner may lead you to sit on a rooftop way after you have finished eating.

Of course, one of the reasons that make a city great is the relaxed ambiance. That’s something you notice quite quickly when you spend a few days in Udaipur in India.

The lakes, palaces and history of Mewar are of course associated with Udaipur. However, the contrast of these sweeping vistas with what it is like to live in the city is what makes these so poignant. The Temple’s bells ring over the busy city streets. Little shops are adjacent to old havelis. For generations, washing laundry is likely to be done on the balcony. Always there’s a roof top nearby that offers a view that’s worth a stop.

Udaipur was capital of Mewar and was established by Maharana Udai Singh II in 1553. While its royal history is definitely one of the most interesting aspects of the museum, it’s not a requirement to visit all the museums and monuments.

When it comes to visiting the best Udaipur tourist places, the following is a list of the top 10 places to visit in Udaipur. These are some of the most memorable sights you’ll come across while exploring Udaipur.

Udaipur at a Glance

• State: Rajasthan
• Known as: The City of Lakes
• Founded by: Maharana Udai Singh II
• Best time to visit: October to March
• Ideal trip: 2-3 days
• Known for: Lakes, palaces, Mewar heritage, old-city streets, architecture and Aravalli views

Why Is Udaipur Called the City of Lakes?

See the map of Udaipur and it will become clear.

Water is integrated into the city. Lake Pichola is the most talked about one, but there are other lakes, namely Fateh Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, Doodh Talai and Udai Sagar, which have been a part of the charmed landscape of Udaipur for years.

The lakes also happen to be where the city looks its best. For many travellers, these are what make the places to visit in Udaipur feel so different from the usual city sightseeing experience.

Visit in late afternoon, when the intensity of the sun starts to wane. Sit anywhere along the water, and watch the buildings, hills and boats turn colour. No elaborate sightseeing plan required.

10 Best Places to Visit in Udaipur

1. City Palace

If you want to know why Udaipur looks and feels the way it does, then you’ll want to start at City Palace.

The complex stands above the lake Pichola and is not a palace per se. Over the course of generations, it was added to with various rulers, creating a labyrinth of courtyards, balconies, terraces, rooms and passages.

Some spaces feel grand and ceremonial. Others are surprisingly intimate.

PLEASE spend time at the museum too. With a little knowledge of Mewar’s history the paintings, royal possessions and interiors make a lot more sense.

City Palace is likely to be one of the Udaipur historical places that provides you with a perfect introduction to the royal history of Udaipur.

If you’re interested in exploring further, here’s our guide to 10 Historic Places in Udaipur.

2. Lake Pichola

There are lakes, and then there’s Lake Pichola.

This is the one which you will see on post cards, hotel brochures and almost every list of Udaipur tourist places. City Palace is on one side and Jagmandir and the Lake Palace are set out on the lake.

It’s a nice way of viewing sunset by boat. As the sun sets, the stone buildings reflect the light, the Aravallis fade in the background and the overall scene becomes quieter.

However, there is one thing to keep in mind: No Boat Ticket is required to enjoy Lake Pichola.

The ghats are very nice vantage points to sit and watch the rest of the night.

3. Sajjangarh (Monsoon Palace)

The palace visible above Udaipur on the hills is called ‘Sajjangarh’.

The Monsoon Palace was constructed by Maharana Sajjan Singh, and provides a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding Aravallis.

It’s not just about the building itself that makes people come.

Go for the view.

Late afternoon is the best time. The lakes of Udaipur appear to be dotted all over the place from high up, and the city slowly comes to life as the sun sets.

Sajjangarh offers one an an opportunity to take a step back and view the big picture, if one has already walked the streets and visited the monuments of the metropolis.

4. Jagdish Temple

Jagdish Temple is quite an easy addition to City Palace but not an afterthought.

The Vishnu temple built by Maharana Jagat Singh I in 1651 is intricately carved with stones. When you slow down and look at the exterior rather than getting straight on the inside, the craftsmanship can be better appreciated.

Not to mention the neighborhood.

Come out of the temple and you’re again in the lanes of the old city. Stores line the streets, people walk around and food stands vie for the attention of passers-by.

This is one of the reasons for enjoying the experience of exploring Udaipur historical places. The history isn’t separated from the city. It’s mixed right into it.

5. Fateh Sagar Lake

Fateh Sagar feels more relaxed than Pichola.

It is surrounded by the Aravallis and is a favorite place for people to visit at night. Afternoon heat subsides, the lake area begins to fill up.

Boats are on the water, people are walking and there’s plenty of time to stop for a bite to eat.

There are three islands in the lake, one of which is Nehru Island and the other is the one on which the Udaipur Solar Observatory is located.

If you are no longer in need of a grand tour of Udaipur, then spend an evening here. It demonstrates to you a more subdued and commonplace side of the city.

6. Bagore Ki Haveli

Bagore Ki Haveli is situated on Gangaur Ghat making it a convenient stop during an old city stroll.

A collection of costumes, paintings, domestic items and other mementoes of aristocratic life in Mewar are kept in the 18th century haveli.

However, it definitely comes alive at night.

Folk music, dance and traditional performances come to the courtyard as part of the cultural programme. This is not to diminish the atmosphere; it’s become an activity that’s popular with tourists.

After the show, you’re directly next to the lake and you can continue your evening.

That’s a pretty good location for a night out.

7. Saheliyon Ki Bari

Saheliyon Ki Bari doesn’t have a muscle in its body to compete with City Palace.

Rather it provides a more subdued change of pace.

It was an improvement of the garden during the tenure of Maharana Sangram Singh II for the use of the ladies. Unlike the stone monuments that dot the rest of the city, it has a very different atmosphere, enhanced by the use of fountains, marble work, lotus pools and greenery.

It’s easy to walk around quite rapidly, but why?

Wait for some time in the shade. Allow the garden to take its place.

Fateh Sagar is close by, making the two an easy combination.

8. Jagmandir

Located by boat, Jagmandir feels like it’s a bit off the beaten track from the rest of Udaipur.

The palace is located in the lake of Pichola and mostly built in the 17th century. It is also associated with Prince Khurram whom later became the Emperor Shah Jahan.

The architecture is impressive but, remember, not the whole trip is to look at the building.

Look back.

The scenic view from the island is towards Udaipur. In an angle that you never get from the shore, the skyline of the palace, the hills and the water meet.

9. Ambrai Ghat

Ambrai Ghat is likely the simplest stop in this list.

A view of the lake Pichola.

That’s about it.

And there’s plenty of it.

This is a popular location for sunset photos as City Palace is opposite the ghat. After the sun has set, the palace lights go on and their reflections cascade over the water.

There is a lot going on around the sunset time. Don’t discourage yourself from going because it may be full when you arrive. Wait a little. It’s not like Udaipur looks the same 10 or 15 minutes later.

10. Badi Lake

In case you’re not too excited about visiting the sights of the day, here is something that is an alternative, Badi Lake.

The lake is situated far away from the touristic zone of Udaipur with its landscape being much more open.

There is no famous palace in this place.

There doesn’t need to be.

It’s the quiet that is the draw. The hills surrounding the lake are greener after the monsoon and the setting is even more attractive.

Sit, take pictures or just take in the scenery without being concerned about what to see next.

More Places to Explore in Udaipur

Once you’ve covered the headline attractions, there are a few more popular places in Udaipur and lesser-known stops worth considering. These are also useful additions if you’re exploring Udaipur in India beyond the main tourist circuit.

1. Moti Magri / Pratap Memorial

Moti Magri is located on top of Fateh Sagar and also has a memorial that commemorates Maharana Pratap. The hilltop location also affords a view over the lake.

2. Doodh Talai

Near Pichola Lake, Doodh Talai offers gardens, viewpoints and is ideal for a late afternoon or early evening lunch or dinner.

3. Shilpgram

Shilpgram provides an insight into the folk tradition and handicrafts of the western part of India. A breath of fresh air if you’re in need of a break from palaces.

4. Ahar Museum

In comparison to other places of interest in Udaipur, Ahar is quieter and smaller. If you are interested in the older history of the region, its archaeological collections, pottery and sculptures are worth considering.

5. Gulab Bagh

Gulab Bagh is an old garden where one can get away from the traffic and enjoy some time amidst greenery.

Things to Do in Udaipur Beyond Sightseeing

Sometimes the very best things to do in Udaipur are those that don’t involve an entry ticket. And if you’re spending a few days in Udaipur in India, these slower experiences can end up being the ones you remember most.

Cross Lake Pichola en passant the sunset. Go to the old city and don’t know where you will go next. Shop in textile/handicraft shops. Sit next to Fateh Sagar and eat your snack. See a folk act at Bagore Ki Haveli.

And eat properly.

Obviously, the first things that pop into my mind are dal baati churma and gatte ki sabzi. Laal maas is also available for the ones who prefer a bit more ‘heat’ in their dishes.

Then there’s chai.

Somehow, you’ll end up having more of it than planned.

Places to Visit in Udaipur at Night

Once the lights go on, the city’s appearance is entirely different.

Around the lake Pichola, the palaces begin to shine in the light of the water, the streets of the old city are full of guests and are not deserted even at night.

There are plenty of places to visit in Udaipur after dark, but you don’t need a complicated plan. See Bagore Ki Haveli performance, dine on a rooftop, take a leisurely stroll through the old city or relax in a serene location overlooking the lake.

But if all the above is not to your taste, rest here in some place of view.

It’s okay to have a non-productive evening during vacation.

Places to Visit Near Udaipur

In case of having an additional day you can consider these places to visit near Udaipur.

1. Nathdwara: If you are a temple and traditional Pichwai art enthusiast, then you have a natural choice of Nathdwara.
2. Haldighati: Haldighati takes you into the history of Maharana Pratap and Mewar.
3. Kumbhalgarh: If you’re a fan of massive forts and rugged landscapes, then Kumbhalgarh is the place to go.
4. Ranakpur: The forested hills and the beautifully carved pillars and Jain temples make Ranakpur famous.
5. Chittorgarh: If you are interested in the history of Mewar, then Chittorgarh is a place to delve deeper into the past, including its large fort and its rich history of stories.

These are places that would be ideal for a road trip around Rajasthan.

Places to Visit in Udaipur in 3 Days

Three days is enough time to experience Udaipur without making the trip feel like an exam timetable. If you’re specifically searching for places to visit in Udaipur in 3 days, this gives you enough room to see the main sights without rushing through them.

Day 1 — The old city

Start from City Palace, walk to Jagdish Temple.

Do a lot of sightseeing in the old city lanes in the afternoon and visit Bagore Ki Haveli. At dusk head towards Lake Pichola, hop on a boat and arrive at Ambrai Ghat.

Day 2 — Lakes and hilltop views

Saheliyon Ki Bari in the morning then Fateh Sagar.

In the evening, visit Jagmandir and then Sajjangarh to see the sunset.

Day 3 — Take the foot off the accelerator

In the morning go to Badi Lake.

Re-enter the town and visit Ahar Museum, or go shopping and coffee drinking. If you’re not into going to the end of the trail, you can stay at Doodh Talai.

But if you choose to do less than half the plan and sleep in?

That’s okay.

Udaipur will still be there.

Cafes to Visit in Udaipur

The cafes to visit in Udaipur are an integral part of the experience now, especially in the vicinity of the old city and Lake Pichola.

It’s not that rooftop cafés are so in vogue, but the view does a lot of the work. Some are more suitable as a breakfast option, some as a coffee break and others are activated once the palace illuminates the lake.

Avoid “Café Marathon”. Don’t make café hopping another competition.

Find a place you like. Order something. Stay for a while.

If you need more recommendations, see the best cafés and rooftop restaurants in Udaipur.

Best Time to Visit Udaipur

October to March is the best time to visit Udaipur in India for most tourists. Conditions for walking around the old city and enjoying evenings outside the houses are more comfortable.

The monsoon months are July to September, and they have their own beauty. The hills are a more verdant shade and the lakes may appear to be stunning in cloudy conditions.

If you enjoy travelling during the rains, Udaipur is worth considering. You can also explore our guide to the 20 best monsoon places in India.

The summers (April to June) can be quite hot. This is the time to get up early and go to bed late.

How to Reach Udaipur

By Air

The city is served by Maharana Pratap Airport (Dabok Airport) which has connectivity to major cities in India.

By Train

Udaipur City Railway Station is a major railway station located in Udaipur, Rajasthan and offers connections to various cities in Rajasthan and beyond.

By Road

Road travel is a good option if Udaipur is a component of a bigger Rajasthan tour. Major cities on the road route are Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Chittorgarh and Jodhpur.

Getting Around Udaipur

Walking is the mode of transportation for the old city.

The lanes are tight and so is half the fun. Old balconies, small temples, colourful shops and street scenes will come into sight that just slip past the car window.

For locations further away, cars and taxis will work. If you prefer to take your time, then cycling is another way to go.

Where to Stay in Udaipur

The choice of the right area will depend on the purpose of the trip.

If it is important to be close to the City Palace, the Lake Pichola, markets and rooftop cafés, stay around the old city.

If you prefer to see green and quiet in the morning, stay away from the noisiest, busiest central parts of the city. For those who prefer a more restorative experience, nature stays in Udaipur by Solis Nature can be an excellent choice.

For accommodation options, explore 5-star hotels in Udaipur and resorts in Udaipur.

Udaipur Travel Tips

• Make the big attractions a priority—get started early. The plus side is that you’ll be able to enjoy the quieter portion of the day, apart from that you will need to steer clear of some of the crowds.
• Be flexible and variable in the evening. You don’t want to do too tight a sunset here.
• Wear comfortable shoes—particularly if venturing into the old city on foot.
• Bring water and sun cream, and wear suitable clothes at temples.
• Don’t fall into the trap of putting another attraction into every “free” hour.
• A little of your time should just be in Udaipur.

Final Thoughts

Udaipur is easy to fall into.

You arrive thinking about palaces and lakes, spend the morning looking at centuries-old architecture, and then somehow find yourself three streets away eating something you didn’t plan to order.

That’s part of the experience.

The major sights deserve your time. City Palace tells you where Mewar came from. Lake Pichola shows you why the city looks the way it does. Sajjangarh gives you the view from above. The old city fills in everything between them.

For anyone making a list of places to visit in Udaipur, these are the sights that will give you a good introduction, but they don’t have to define the whole trip.

But don’t spend the whole trip chasing attractions.

Leave an afternoon empty.

Sit by the lake. Take a longer lunch. Wander through a market. Stop for chai because you feel like it.

Those unplanned bits are often the ones that make Udaipur feel less like somewhere you went for a few days and more like somewhere you actually experienced.

And that, really, is the kind of travel worth remembering.

Udaipur in India is best experienced at your own pace — not as a checklist, but as a place where you let the day unfold a little. 

FAQs

1. What are the best attractions in Udaipur?

The most popular Udaipur attractions include City Palace, Lake Pichola, Sajjangarh, Jagdish Temple, Fateh Sagar Lake, Bagore Ki Haveli and Saheliyon Ki Bari. Badi Lake, Shilpgram and Ahar Museum are worth adding if you have more time.

For more traveller perspectives, you can also browse this Quora discussion on Udaipur attractions.

2. How many days are enough for Udaipur?

Two to three days are ideal for a first visit. Two days cover the major sights, while three days give you more breathing room for cafés, markets and slow evenings by the lake.

3. What is Udaipur famous for?

Udaipur is best known for its lakes, royal palaces, Mewar heritage and Aravalli views. City Palace and Lake Pichola are the big highlights, but the old-city lanes and ghats add plenty of character too.

4. Which are the best places to eat in Udaipur?

Try local favourites such as dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi and laal maas, and don’t miss the city’s rooftop restaurants and cafés around Lake Pichola.

For more food recommendations, see this Quora discussion about the best places to eat in Udaipur.

5. Can I book City Palace tickets online?

Yes. Tickets and visitor information are available through the official City Palace Museum website. It’s a good idea to check the official site before visiting for the latest ticket prices and timings.

Official website: City Palace Museum

6. What is the best time to visit Udaipur?

October to March is generally the most comfortable time for sightseeing, especially if you plan to walk around the old city and spend evenings outdoors.

The monsoon months have their own charm, with greener hills and fuller-looking lakes.

7. Is Udaipur worth visiting at night?

Absolutely. The palaces and lakes look beautiful after sunset, and you can spend the evening at a rooftop café, explore the old-city lanes or watch a cultural performance at Bagore Ki Haveli.

Sometimes, just sitting by the lake with a chai is enough… no itinerary needed.