I was spellbound and finally understood why it is tagged as the prettiest city of India. Surrounded by beautiful Aravalli hills and beautiful lakes, royal palaces, mansions. No wonder why its coming up as the destination wedding city.
I have been to Udaipur 5-6 times now, the first time I was in Thamla Haveli, then Hotel Saharkot and then Hotel Narayan Niwas, all the three hotels are on the bank of Pichola lake. The fact that the rooms had interiors with Rajasthani home decor made me like the place even more.
Its better to book your stay near the Pichola lake to enjoy the picturesque view of the city and delightful sunsets. If you have been to India and have seen sunsets in Udaipur, you've done quite a lot. I am huge admirer of Udaipur Sunsets, very calming and soothing.
Activities to do in Udaipur
City Palace - Highlight of the city, right in the middle of city. Entry fees INR 300 (inclusive of camera tickets) You can roam around inside or take a guide (easily available outside the fort). Its very well kept with beautiful detailing done on the walls. Inside the palace there are couple of museums as well of old weapons that was a collection of royal family. You can take a ferry to Jag Mandir, also known for sunset boat ride, watch the sunset dissolving in the sky along with the beautiful landscapes. The last ferry goes by 6.15pm (the time keeps fluctuating according to season). Boat ride can also be done from Lal Ghat Boating point, which would cost INR 300 per person for a 45 minute ride. Its a cheaper option but worth itMonsoon Palace - Located on a hill top also known as Sajjan Garh, you can have a beautiful panoramic view of the lakes, palaces. Its worth all the climb to view the sunset but nothing else to explore here.
Kumbalgarh - 2 hour cab journey (around 80kms) to Kumbalgarh from main city. Looks like the Great wall of china, climb the scenic path enjoying the view. Reach to the top to enjoy the windy weather in Summers as well and the hilltop view of outskirts.
Vintage Car Museum - A museum of all the vintage cars used by the royal families in the old times. Entry fees is INR 300. Not more than 45 mins required to explore this.
Cultural Dance Show - One of the most highly recommended activities. Take a stroll to Bagore ki Haveli. Entry fees is INR 150 and camera fees is separate INR 150. Its worth the money for one hour of energy filled vibrant event they host taking you through the local dance and songs of Rajasthan. Maybe enjoy an hour of calmness at Bagore ki haveli.
Fatehsagar Lake - Another of the 5 lakes surrounding the city, the vibe here is so lively and refreshing. Located in the city, this well lit place with ferries going in the lake and cafes by the side felt like a fair. Settle down in a cafe and have food with the view of lake covered with hills.
There are a lot of other things to do here (I just mentioned the major ones). Take some time to relax and enjoy the sunset with a sip of wine. Indulge in the royalty and beauty of this city of lakes.