Udaipur, often called the “Venice of the East” or the “City of Lakes,” is one of India’s most romantic and visually stunning destinations. The top tourist places to visit in Udaipur include majestic forts, serene lakes, ornate temples, and vibrant bazaars—each offering a glimpse into the city’s regal past and artistic soul. Nestled in the Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan, it’s a city where royal palaces float on shimmering waters, narrow lanes echo with folk music, and sunsets paint the skyline in gold.
Whether you’re a heritage traveler, a honeymooner, or a culture enthusiast, Udaipur promises a journey that’s elegant, immersive, and unforgettable.
🏰 1. City Palace – The Crown Jewel of Udaipur
- Built By: Maharana Udai Singh II in 1559
- Highlights: Crystal Gallery, Zenana Mahal, Mor Chowk, and panoramic views of Lake Pichola
- Experience: Guided tours, museum exhibits, and royal architecture
City Palace is a sprawling complex of courtyards, balconies, and towers that narrate centuries of Mewar history.
🌊 2. Lake Pichola – The Soul of the City
- Created In: 1362 AD by a Banjara tribesman
- Features: Boat rides, sunset views, and lakeside dining
- Nearby Attractions: Jag Mandir, Jag Niwas (Lake Palace), and Arsi Vilas Island
A boat ride on Lake Pichola is a must-do, especially during golden hour when the palaces glow.
🏯 3. Jag Mandir – The Floating Palace
- Location: On an island in Lake Pichola
- Built By: Maharana Karan Singh in the 17th century
- Highlights: Marble elephants, Gul Mahal, and garden courtyards
- Experience: Boat access, heritage dining, and photography
Jag Mandir is a serene escape with royal charm and lake breezes.
🏛️ 4. Jagdish Temple – A Spiritual Landmark
- Built In: 1651 by Maharana Jagat Singh
- Architecture: Indo-Aryan style with intricate carvings
- Deity: Lord Vishnu as Jagannath
- Experience: Morning aarti, cultural immersion, and local rituals
Located near City Palace, Jagdish Temple is a spiritual and architectural gem.
🏞️ 5. Sajjangarh Palace (Monsoon Palace)
- Built By: Maharana Sajjan Singh in 1884
- Purpose: Originally intended as an astronomical center
- Highlights: Hilltop views, sunset points, and wildlife sightings
- Experience: Scenic drive, panoramic photography, and monsoon magic
Sajjangarh offers breathtaking views of Udaipur’s lakes and hills, especially during twilight.
🏕️ 6. Fateh Sagar Lake – The Local Favorite
- Built By: Maharana Fateh Singh in the 1680s
- Features: Nehru Park, boat rides, and lakeside cafés
- Activities: Cycling, paddle boating, and evening strolls
Fateh Sagar is a popular hangout for locals and tourists alike.
🏛️ 7. Bagore Ki Haveli – A Cultural Treasure
- Built In: 18th century by Amar Chand Badwa
- Features: 100+ rooms, mirror work, costumes, and puppet museum
- Experience: Evening Dharohar folk dance show
Bagore Ki Haveli is a must-visit for those seeking Rajasthani culture and performance art.
🏞️ 8. Saheliyon Ki Bari – Garden of the Maidens
- Built By: Maharana Sangram Singh for royal women
- Features: Lotus pools, marble pavilions, and fountains
- Experience: Peaceful walks, floral photography, and historical anecdotes
This garden is a tranquil retreat with romantic and royal undertones.
🏯 9. Ahar Cenotaphs – Royal Resting Grounds
- Location: 3 km from Udaipur city center
- Features: 250+ cenotaphs of Mewar rulers
- Architecture: Dome-shaped chhatris with intricate carvings
- Experience: Offbeat heritage exploration
Ahar is a quiet, contemplative site for history lovers.
🛍️ 10. Shilpgram – The Artisan’s Village
- Location: 3 km west of Fateh Sagar Lake
- Highlights: Handicrafts, folk performances, and tribal huts
- Annual Event: Shilpgram Festival in December
- Experience: Shopping, cultural workshops, and live music
Shilpgram is perfect for picking up authentic Rajasthani crafts and experiencing rural artistry.
🧭 Travel Tips for Visiting Udaipur
- Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather and festivals
- Getting There:
- By Air: Maharana Pratap Airport (22 km from city)
- By Train: Udaipur City Railway Station connects to major cities
- By Road: Well-connected via NH76 and NH8 from Jaipur, Ahmedabad, and Mount Abu
- Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and walking tours
- Stay Options:
- Luxury: Taj Lake Palace, Oberoi Udaivilas
- Mid-Range: Trident Udaipur, Jagat Niwas Palace
- Budget: Hostels, guesthouses, and boutique homestays
🎉 Festivals and Events
- Mewar Festival (March/April): Celebrates spring with processions, folk dances, and rituals
- Diwali and Holi: City lights up with color, music, and community gatherings
- Shilpgram Festival (December): Showcases rural arts, crafts, and performances
These events add cultural depth and vibrancy to your Udaipur itinerary.
📸 Photography Hotspots
- City Palace balconies and courtyards
- Lake Pichola at sunset
- Jag Mandir and Lake Palace reflections
- Sajjangarh Palace skyline
- Shilpgram artisans and performances
Udaipur is a visual feast for content creators and travel photographers.
✨ Conclusion: Why Udaipur Is a Must-Visit
Udaipur is not just a city—it’s a living canvas of lakes, palaces, and legends. From the grandeur of City Palace to the serenity of Fateh Sagar and the cultural pulse of Bagore Ki Haveli, the top tourist places to visit in Udaipur offer a journey that’s regal, romantic, and rooted in heritage. Whether you’re sipping chai by the lake or dancing to folk rhythms under the stars, Udaipur leaves you enchanted and inspired.
