Best Places to Visit in Udaipur
1. City Palace (Paid Entry)
The City Palace in Udaipur is the second-largest palace in India after Mysore Palace. It is also known as Rajmahal. It takes approximately one hour to reach the City Palace from the airport and approximately 15-20 minutes from the city railway station. With contributions from 22 generations of Sisodia Rajput rulers, this palace took nearly 400 years to build. Situated on the high hills of the Aravalli range and surrounded by Lake Pichola, the palace has remained well-protected. The palace is designed like a maze, which helped safeguard it from invaders. There are many gates, each with a unique name. Just inside the entrance, you’ll come across a 400-year-old statue of Lord Ganesha. The site also preserves the weapons of Maharana Pratap, including his sword, shield, bow, and arrows—symbols of his valor. The Diwan-E-Aam was where the public would present their problem to the king, and the Diwan-E-Khas was reserved for meetings with ministers and dignitaries. At Moti Mahal, the queens would watch palace festivities. A unique tradition at the palace involved the king bowing to a golden sun emblem—especially on cloudy days when the real sun was hidden—highlighting the deep reverence for solar deities. The entire palace is a masterpiece of art, and if you're in Udaipur, it's a must-visit.
Things to Do
- Explore the largest palace complex in Rajasthan with museums and courtyards.
- Visit the Crystal Gallery showcasing a rare collection of crystal furniture.
- Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Pichola and the Aravalli Hills from the terraces.
Nearest Attractions
- Jagdish Temple – ~0.5 km
- Lake Pichola – ~0.3 km
- Bagore Ki Haveli – ~0.8 km
2. Lake Pichola (Boating Fee)
Pichola is an artificial lake created in 1362. Paid boating services are available here. The lake features four islands — Jag Niwas, Jag Mandir, Mohan Mandir, and Arsi Vilas and is well connected to the city. The scenic views are stunning, especially from the City Palace. You can also find lakeside hotels, where you can enjoy the lake view, though they can be a bit expensive if your budget is limited.
Things to Do
- Enjoy a boat ride to Jag Mandir and Jag Niwas (Lake Palace).
- Photography of the lake at sunrise and sunset with City Palace backdrop.
- Evening stroll along the ghats and lakeside promenade.
Nearest Attractions
- City Palace – ~0.3 km
- Jag Mandir – within lake
- Bagore Ki Haveli – ~0.5 km
3. Jag Mandir (Boating Fee)
Jag Mandir, situated in Lake Pichola, was used as a summer palace by the kings. You can attain right here with the boat (paid) and live for a limited time to experience the stunning lake views and sundown view.
Things to Do
- Reach the island palace by boat from City Palace jetty.
- Explore the beautiful Gul Mahal and elephant statues on the island.
- Enjoy dining and sunset views over Lake Pichola.
Nearest Attractions
- Lake Pichola – within lake
- City Palace – ~1 km (by boat)
- Bagore Ki Haveli – ~1.2 km (by boat)
4. Saheliyon Ki Bari (Paid Entry)
Saheliyon Ki Bari is a popular garden and tourist spot located on the banks of Fateh Sagar Lake. Built by Maharana Sangram Singh between 1710 and 1734, this garden was a gift to his queen and her 48 maids who accompanied her as part of her dowry, where they could relax away from palace duties. The garden features fountains that mimic rainfall continuously, thanks to an ingenious design that operates without electricity. The lotus pool and elephant statues are other attractions. There's also a small museum showcasing India's history.
Things to Do
- Stroll through the ornamental garden with fountains, kiosks, and marble elephants.
- Visit the small museum inside the garden complex.
- Photography of the lotus pool and marble pavilions.
Nearest Attractions
- Fateh Sagar Lake – ~1.5 km
- Moti Magri – ~2 km
- Shilpgram – ~4 km
5. Fateh Sagar Lake/Nehru Garden (Boating Fee)
A winding road follows the scenic shoreline of Fateh Sagar Lake, offering beautiful views of the water. The view looks awesome. There are several spots along the way where you can stop and admire the beauty. Boating stations are located at various points, and you can take a boat ride to Nehru Garden, an island in the lake. The views from the garden are peaceful, and the nighttime lighting of Nehru Garden is especially breathtaking.
Things to Do
- Enjoy a boat ride to Nehru Garden island in the middle of the lake.
- Visit the Udaipur Solar Observatory on the lake island.
- Evening walk along the lakeside promenade with Aravalli Hills views.
Nearest Attractions
- Saheliyon Ki Bari – ~1.5 km
- Moti Magri – ~1 km
- Shilpgram – ~2.5 km
6. Jagdish Temple
The Jagdish Temple, also known as the Jagannath Temple, is a significant Hindu shrine in Udaipur. Commissioned by Maharana Jagat Singh, it’s just a 5–10 minute walk from the City Palace and features impressive Indo-Aryan architecture. The temple features intricately carved walls and enshrines a striking black stone idol of Lord Vishnu with four arms.
Things to Do
- Visit the largest temple in Udaipur dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
- Admire the Indo-Aryan architecture and intricate stone carvings.
- Attend the morning and evening aarti ceremonies.
Nearest Attractions
- City Palace – ~0.5 km
- Lake Pichola – ~0.6 km
- Bagore Ki Haveli – ~0.5 km
7. Monsoon Palace or Sajjan Garh (Paid Entry)
The Sajjan Garh Palace, also known as the Monsoon Palace, is situated atop the Aravalli hills. Originally owned by the royal family of Mewar, it is now under the control of the forest department. Maharaja Sajjan Singh had planned to build an astronomical centre here, but his untimely death halted the project. Constructed from white marble, the palace on Lake Pichola can be reached easily by auto-rickshaw or taxi. However, private vehicles are not allowed beyond a certain point, and a government vehicle will take you the rest of the journey. The views from the palace road are spectacular, and you might enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
Things to Do
- Spot leopards, wolves, crocodiles, and diverse Rajasthani wildlife.
- Nature walk and birdwatching in the forested sanctuary.
- Visit on the way to or from Monsoon Palace.
Nearest Attractions
- Monsoon Palace – ~2 km
- Shilpgram – ~3 km
- Fateh Sagar Lake – ~5 km
8. Sajjangarh Biological Park (Paid Entry)
This zoo, spread over 36 hectares, opened in 2015 after construction started in 2004-2005. Here are a variety of animals and birds. Guests can enjoy facilities such as a golf cart, RO water, a resort, a restaurant, and a children's playground. Bicycle facilities are also available to explore the zoo.
Things to Do
- Spot leopards, wolves, crocodiles, and diverse Rajasthani wildlife.
- Nature walk and birdwatching in the forested sanctuary.
- Visit on the way to or from Monsoon Palace.
Nearest Attractions
- Monsoon Palace – ~2 km
- Shilpgram – ~3 km
- Fateh Sagar Lake – ~5 km
9. Bagore Ki Haveli (Paid Entry)
Perched on the banks of Lake Pichola at Gangori Ghat, Bagore Ki Haveli offers a fascinating glimpse into the royal lifestyle of Rajasthan, with its intricate interiors and rich cultural exhibits. It is a large palace with over 100 rooms displaying costumes and modern art. The interiors are adorned with glass and mirrors, similar to other royal palaces in Udaipur and Jaipur. The haveli has been converted into a museum, and there is a paid cultural dance show in the evening.
Things to Do
- Spot leopards, wolves, crocodiles, and diverse Rajasthani wildlife.
- Nature walk and birdwatching in the forested sanctuary.
- Visit on the way to or from Monsoon Palace.
Nearest Attractions
- Monsoon Palace – ~2 km
- Shilpgram – ~3 km
- Fateh Sagar Lake – ~5 km
10. Shilpgram (Paid Entry)
Shilpgram is a wonderful region in which to revel in the way of life of Rajasthan and its villages. Spread over 70 acres, it features many huts that give you a sense of traditional village life. You could enjoy camel rides, watch local artists perform, and enjoy music and dance. Pottery sellers also have small shops here. While it’s a unique place, if you’re pressed for time, you can skip it.
Things to Do
- Explore the 138-room haveli museum with royal costumes and artifacts.
- Watch the evening cultural show featuring Rajasthani folk dance and music.
- See the world's largest turban on display inside the museum.
Nearest Attractions
- Jagdish Temple – ~0.5 km
- Lake Pichola – ~0.5 km
- City Palace – ~0.8 km
11. Eklingji Temple
Located in the village of Kailashpuri, about 25 km from Lake Pichola, the Eklingji temple is one of the most important temples in Rajasthan. Built by Bappa Rawal in the 8th century, it houses a four-faced Shiva Lingam, with idols of Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha, Lord Kartik, and other deities. The temple complex also contains beautiful ponds and a temple dedicated to Mirabai, where she worshiped Lord Krishna at Gangori Ghat.
Things to Do
- Visit the ancient temple complex of 108 temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Admire the intricate 10th-century Mewar-style stone carvings and architecture.
- Attend the Monday evening aarti, which is especially significant and grand.
Nearest Attractions
- Nagda Temple – ~2 km
- Haldighati – ~20 km
- Udaipur City – ~22 km