Udaipur

A love story in itself, Udaipur commands a romance unmatched by any other Rajasthani city, or anywhere else in India for that matter. Domed white marble palaces and winding lanes with every possibility at the end. Cobalt lakes and verdant landscaped gardens, it is no wonder Udaipur is India’s number one spot to honeymoon. Our pick of the best places to stay in Udaipur are steeped in history and ambiance.

Surrounding Lake Pichola the city is silhouetted by the verdant Aravalli hills, providing a dramatic backdrop. Udaipur is glamorous, cultural, easy going and archaic in equal measure. It provides an insight into traditional India whilst heralding modern times.

The iconic Lake Palace and City Palace are Udaipur’s major landmarks and draw visitors from around the world. Whilst the romance might have worn thin around about these edifices (as almost every building is either a hotel, travel agent, shop or mediocre restaurant), step away from the backpacker’s epicentre and you'll find yourself in a world of charming haveli properties, ancient temples and diverse bazaars.

Founded by the Maharaja Udai Singh in 1567, Udaipur became a centre for a specialised art form known as Mughal miniatures. A selection of these can be viewed at the City Palace. This penchant for design can be seen in the intricate latticework and coloured glass windows ubiquitous throughout the city.

Die hard Bond fans or just those keen on movie trivia might appreciate a visit to the beautiful Monsoon Palace, the lair of Ian Fleming’s classic Bond villain, Kamal Khan. Octopussy is shown daily throughout Udaipur so make sure to catch a rooftop screening whilst you are here.

View the city by boat on one of its several lakes. Lake Pichola is the most iconic, however the waters of Fateh Sagar also offer a beautiful way to see Udaipur.

Why not explore the arid desert lands surrounding the oasis-like Udaipur by camel, horse or elephant safari? All novel and unforgettable ways to sightsee.

Or head for the hills and traverse Udaipur’s rocky outcrops by the power of your own two feet. Mountain Ridge has pioneered hiking trips between local villages and indigenous tribes for many years. A safe and reliable choice.

Visit the crafts village of Shilpgram just 3km outside of town to see some of Udaipur’s famous produce in the making. You can also buy something special to take home.

In keeping with the rest of Rajasthan, Udaipur is best visited between the months of October and March for optimum weather. However it is truly beautiful during the monsoon season, around July and August, when the lakes are full and the white domed palaces glisten under the rainfall. Holi, India’s spring festival, is also an excellent time to visit. The contrast between the kaleidoscope of colours against the alabaster backdrop is quite the spectacle to behold.

What not to miss

• Take a sunset cruise on Lake Pichola and admire the intricately designed havelis and take a closer look at the grand Lake Palace.
• Explore the dazzling array of brightly coloured artefacts in Hathi Pol Bazaar.
• Imagine the city in days gone by at the charming Vintage and Classic Car Collection Museum.
• Explore the surrounding hills atop the curly eared Rajasthani Marwari horses.

Our pick of the best places to stay in Udaipur are all luxurious abodes that reflect the romance of this superlative city.

For romance

• As well known as Udaipur itself Taj Lake Palace is the place to stay for honeymooning couples. Located in the middle of Lake Pichola it is accessible by boat and all rooms include lake views. There is a unique spa boat and it boasts sumptuous bathrooms and suites with ornate mosaic work and stained glass windows.

For great value

• A charming family run property Kankarwa Haveli, located on the Lal Ghats, is a quintessential Rajasthani stay. Most rooms enjoy views of Lake Pichola and is within walking distance of the City Palace.
• Then there is the exquisite heritage property, Karohi Haveli another ornately arched white structure. Located on the historic Hanumant Ghats it is as attractive on the inside as it is from outside.

For a luxury stay

Both overlooking Lake Pichola The Leela Udaipur and Oberoi Udaivilas provide opulent stays.

• The former, one of the most exuberant properties, The Leela Udaipur is a truly lavish stay. With lake views the black and white tiled pool is divine as are the rooms and spa.
• A modern day Mughal masterpiece The Oberoi Udaivilas boasts fine dining and rooms with four posters made for lingering.

For peace and quiet

• Located just 15 minutes outside of the city Bujera Fort is ideally placed for city exploring and provides an escape from the bustling streets.

For a quintessential Rajasthani experience

• Amet Haveli has it all - the stained glass windows, intricate lattice work and ornate arches. The bedrooms are jam packed with decorative tiles and fabrics plus antique furniture.

For city exploring

• Located within walking distance of many of the city's main attractions the Trident Udaipur also boasts a fabulous pool for a post sight seeing dip.

For an apartment or villa

• If you'd rather have your own space then visit our online partner Booking.com, for a wide range of apartments and villas in the city centre.

Travel Information?

• Fly to Udaipur's Maharana Pratap Airport located 22km from the city or travel by train from Delhi or numerous other major cities in Rajasthan.

• Best time to visit - Rajasthan reaches sweltering temperatures so plan a visit between September and March for sunny days and comfortable evenings. June - August is the rainy season, which although beautiful as the lake is full and the surrounds green, is humid and hot.
• If you plan to hire a car, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars for the best prices.

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