Exploring Udaipur at a Slower Pace, and the Best Places to Visit in Udaipur, Rajasthan

Table of Contents

• Exploring Udaipur at a Slower Pace, and the Best Places to Visit in Udaipur, Rajasthan
• Things I Was Able to Do in Udaipur
• Must-See Places in Udaipur I Missed
• Where to Stay in Udaipur

Let’s be clear—everything described below happened during my time in Udaipur.

At one point, a man followed me. While such incidents don’t occur in every Indian city, they aren’t unheard of either. Casual friendliness is sometimes misunderstood. I had just bought a blue and yellow georgette sari that caught my attention as I walked back from exploring one of Udaipur’s attractions. After a brief chat with the shopkeeper, I left—but he closed his shop, got on his bike, and followed me, calling out as though I had invited him to join me for a sunset visit to a fort.

Another memory is of climbing—almost scrambling—up a muddy hill leading to Karni Mata Temple on Machla Hills. The ropeway was closed at the time, so I took the stairs and eventually veered onto a dry, slippery mud trail. I reached the back gate of the temple, only to find it locked, and had to find another way around.

Soon after, a well-dressed young man approached me, introducing himself as someone associated with the royal family. The guard had informed him about me. He was polite but concerned, asking how I had reached there alone and mentioning that members of the royal family were expected for पूजा later. He gently suggested it wasn’t safe to be there alone in the evening.

Below us, Lake Pichola shimmered in golden light, and the Aravalli hills turned into silhouettes. As we walked down, he kept checking if I was managing the descent. His concern likely wasn’t about the terrain, but about safety in isolation. It made me realize that even popular tourist spots can feel unsafe at certain times.

Despite these moments, Udaipur was memorable in its own way—unexpected encounters, quiet streets during the second COVID wave, and the feeling of standing out as a traveler.

At the time, my partner Sagar and I had just begun a long road trip across India. Starting from Bangalore in early 2021, we traveled north during the second wave, aiming to eventually reach the Himalayas. Udaipur was one of our early stops.

We arrived on a weekday afternoon. Many hotels were closed, and others operated with limited occupancy. Our stay was at Panorama Haveli, a heritage-style building near Lake Pichola. It was mostly empty—only one other guest stayed there during our week-long visit.

That evening, we watched the sunset from the rooftop. The city stretched toward the Aravalli hills, with clusters of pale-yellow buildings and the lake reflecting the fading light. The quietness was striking—no crowds, no noise, just stillness.

From our room, Lake Pichola became a constant companion. Built centuries ago, it remains central to the city, surrounded by palaces and historic structures. Its calm presence defined our days.

During that time, most cafes and restaurants operated quietly. We often found ourselves as the only customers. At places like Jheel Cafe, people came mainly for the views rather than the food. The atmosphere was subdued but beautiful.

Our routine slowly took shape. Mornings began with a search for tea and breakfast, as hotel services were limited. One small tea stall near our hotel became our go-to spot. The owner and his wife prepared meals inside their home, discreetly serving customers during restrictions. Picking up freshly made poha from them became a comforting ritual.

Days were spent working from our room, occasionally stepping out for walks or short explorations. Evenings brought tea, lakeside views, or brief sightseeing.

Some outings stood out. Walking along Lake Pichola, visiting the City Palace, and hiking up Karni Mata Hill offered memorable experiences. Other attempts, like visiting Fateh Sagar Lake during a sudden lockdown, ended quickly when we were warned to leave.

We also visited Saheliyon ki Bari, a historic garden built for a queen and her companions. Though quiet and nearly empty, it offered a peaceful escape.

The City Palace, built in the 16th century, impressed us with its architecture and history. However, places like Jagmandir and Monsoon Palace remained unexplored due to restrictions.

One of the more challenging experiences was visiting a hospital for COVID testing before continuing our journey. The process was chaotic, with multiple steps and crowded spaces. It was a stark reminder of the times.

Back in the city, we continued to explore its quieter corners—alleys, local homes, and small details that gave Udaipur its charm. Over time, a rhythm developed, blending work, exploration, and rest.

Looking back, Udaipur felt different—empty yet peaceful. The lakes, streets, and cafes felt like they belonged only to us. It was a unique experience, shaped by unusual circumstances.

Despite everything, the city left a lasting impression. Its beauty, simplicity, and slower pace made it special.

Things I Was Able to Do in Udaipur

Karni Mata Temple
Even if you skip the temple, the hill itself offers great views of the city. You can hike up or take the ropeway.

Saheliyon ki Bari
A peaceful garden ideal for escaping crowds and relaxing.

City Palace
A historic landmark worth visiting, even briefly, to understand Udaipur’s past.

Lake Pichola
More than just a sight, it’s an experience—perfect for walks and quiet moments by the water.

Must-Visit Places in Udaipur

Monsoon Palace (Sajjangarh Fort)
Located on a hill, it offers panoramic views and has historical significance.

Bagore Ki Haveli Museum
A restored haveli showcasing royal artifacts and hosting cultural performances.

Ahar Cenotaphs
A collection of royal memorials located just outside the city, known for their serene setting.

Where to Stay in Udaipur

Panorama Haveli worked for us at the time, though conditions may vary now. Here are some alternative options:

• Jagat Niwas Palace: A luxury lakeside heritage stay with traditional architecture
• Madri Retreat: A boutique hotel with modern amenities and a pool
• Jaiwana Haveli: Mid-range option with lake views and good service
• Little Garden Guest House: Aesthetic interiors and excellent reviews
• Oolala Lake House: Cozy stay with homely vibes and great hospitality
• Natural Lake View Hotel: Budget-friendly with scenic views
• Turtle Hostel: Ideal for solo travelers and backpackers
• Hotel Pratap Bhawan: Simple budget stay with rooftop views
• Footprint Hostel: Another good option for budget travelers
• Taj Lake Palace: A premium luxury hotel located on an island in Lake Pichola

Udaipur may be busy, warm, and dusty at times, but it remains undeniably beautiful. Stay close to the lake, explore on foot, support local businesses, and take your time soaking it all in.

FAQs

What are the must-visit attractions in Udaipur, Rajasthan?
Udaipur is known for iconic spots like City Palace, Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake, Jag Mandir, Saheliyon Ki Bari, and Jagdish Temple.

How many days are enough to explore the top places in Udaipur?
A 2 to 3-day trip is usually enough to cover the main attractions and enjoy the city at a comfortable pace.

What is the best time to visit Udaipur for sightseeing?
The ideal time to visit is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for exploring outdoor attractions.

Is Udaipur a good destination for family trips?
Yes, Udaipur is family-friendly with a mix of cultural sites, boat rides, gardens, and scenic viewpoints that appeal to all age groups.

Are there romantic places to visit in Udaipur for couples?
Udaipur is often called the “City of Lakes” and is perfect for couples, offering romantic boat rides, sunset views, rooftop dining, and serene lakeside spots.

What are some free or budget-friendly places to visit in Udaipur?
You can explore local markets, ghats, temples, and lakesides like Fateh Sagar and Ambrai Ghat without spending much.

Which lakes should not be missed in Udaipur?
Lake Pichola and Fateh Sagar Lake are the most popular, but Badi Lake and Udai Sagar are also worth visiting for a quieter experience.

Are there any historical sites in Udaipur besides palaces?
Yes, you can visit temples like Jagdish Temple, old city streets, ghats, and museums that reflect the rich history of the region.

What are the best viewpoints in Udaipur?
Popular viewpoints include Monsoon Palace (Sajjangarh), Karni Mata Temple, and various lakefront ghats offering stunning sunset views.

Is local transportation easily available in Udaipur?
Yes, autos, taxis, and rental bikes are widely available, making it easy to travel between attractions.

Can you visit Udaipur on a weekend trip?
Yes, Udaipur is a great weekend getaway with compact distances between major attractions and easy connectivity.

What shopping experiences should you try in Udaipur?
Udaipur offers vibrant markets where you can shop for handicrafts, miniature paintings, jewelry, textiles, and traditional Rajasthani items.

Are there places to visit near Udaipur for a day trip?
Yes, you can explore nearby attractions like Kumbhalgarh Fort, Ranakpur Jain Temple, and Eklingji Temple for a day excursion.

Is Udaipur suitable for solo travelers?
Udaipur is generally safe and welcoming, making it a popular choice for solo travelers looking to explore culture and scenic beauty.

What are the best food spots to explore in Udaipur?
You can enjoy traditional Rajasthani cuisine at local eateries, lakeside cafes, and rooftop restaurants with panoramic views.