Best Things to Do in Udaipur: Explore Lakes, Palaces & More

Udaipur has a way of making a regular holiday feel a little more special. With calm lakes, grand palaces, old streets and beautiful sunset spots, the city brings together Rajasthan’s royal heritage and a slower, more relaxed holiday vibe.

The best things to do in Udaipur are not limited to sightseeing. You can take a boat ride on Lake Pichola, explore the City Palace, wander through colourful markets, enjoy a rooftop dinner or simply watch the city light up as the sun goes down. Whether you are travelling with family, friends or your partner, there is plenty to experience.

Why Should You Visit Udaipur?

Udaipur is more than its famous palaces and lakes. It is a city where you can spend your mornings exploring heritage sites and your evenings enjoying peaceful views over the water.

• Royal heritage: Explore magnificent palaces, temples and historic buildings.
• Beautiful lakes: Enjoy peaceful views around Lake Pichola and Fateh Sagar Lake.
• Romantic atmosphere: Sunset views, boat rides and rooftop dining make the city popular with couples.
• Rich culture: Experience Rajasthani art, music, food and traditional markets.
• Scenic surroundings: The Aravalli Hills create a beautiful backdrop around the city.
• Great food: Try everything from dal baati churma to kachoris and ghewar.
• Relaxed experiences: The city lets you combine sightseeing with plenty of downtime.

What Are the Best Things to Do in Udaipur?

If you are wondering about the best things to do in Udaipur, these experiences cover a good mix of royal history, lakes, culture, food and local life. You can pick the ones that suit your travel style and build your itinerary around them.

1. Take a Boat Ride on Lake Pichola

Location: Lake Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan

Lake Pichola is one of Udaipur’s most recognisable sights, surrounded by palaces, ghats, islands and the Aravalli Hills. A boat ride gives you a different perspective of the City Palace, Jag Mandir and the old city.

Ideal Time to Visit: Evening, especially around sunset

Time Needed: 1-2 hours

Entry Fee: Paid boat ride, with prices varying by boat and timing

Good To Know: Sunset rides can be popular, so check availability and book ahead during busy periods.

Where to Stay: Consider ELIVAAS Villas in Udaipur for a private and comfortable base while exploring Lake Pichola and the old city.

2. Explore the City Palace

Location: Old City, Udaipur, Rajasthan

The City Palace is one of the highlights of Udaipur and a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture. Its courtyards, balconies, galleries and decorative interiors offer plenty to explore, while several points within the complex overlook Lake Pichola.

Ideal Time to Visit: Morning, before the afternoon crowds

Time Needed: 2-3 hours

Entry Fee: Paid entry

Good To Know: Wear comfortable footwear as there is quite a bit of walking inside the palace complex.

Where to Stay: ELIVAAS Bungalows in Udaipur offer spacious stays for families and groups who want to relax comfortably after sightseeing. 

3. Watch the Sunset at Sajjangarh Palace

Location: Sajjangarh, Udaipur, Rajasthan

Also known as the Monsoon Palace, Sajjangarh sits on a hill overlooking Udaipur. The elevated location gives you wide views of the city, lakes and surrounding Aravalli landscape.

Ideal Time to Visit: Late afternoon and sunset

Time Needed: 1.5-2 hours

Entry Fee: Paid entry

Good To Know: Reach before sunset so you have enough time to explore the palace and find a good viewpoint.

Where to Stay: ELIVAAS Cottages in Udaipur give you a comfortable place to unwind after an evening at Sajjangarh Palace.

4. Spend Time Around Fateh Sagar Lake

Location: Fateh Sagar Road, Udaipur, Rajasthan

Fateh Sagar Lake is a lovely place to slow down after a morning of sightseeing. You can walk along the waterfront, enjoy the views or stop for a snack at one of the nearby food spots.

Ideal Time to Visit: Early morning or evening

Time Needed: 1-2 hours

Entry Fee: Free to visit the lakeside; activities may have separate charges

Good To Know: The lake is especially pleasant around sunset when the surrounding hills take on a softer glow.

Where to Stay: ELIVAAS Farmhouses in Udaipur are a comfortable option for travellers who want a private space between sightseeing plans. 

5. Visit Jagdish Temple

Location: Jagdish Temple Road, Old City, Udaipur, Rajasthan

Located close to the City Palace, Jagdish Temple is known for its detailed carvings and traditional architecture. It is easy to include in your itinerary while exploring the old city.

Ideal Time to Visit: Morning or early evening

Time Needed: 30-60 minutes

Entry Fee: Free entry

Good To Know: Dress respectfully and follow the temple’s rules regarding footwear and photography.

Where to Stay: ELIVAAS Homestays in Udaipur can be a convenient choice for families and groups exploring the old city and nearby attractions. 

6. Wander Through the Old City

Location: Old City, Udaipur, Rajasthan

Walking through Udaipur’s old streets is one of the easiest ways to experience the city beyond its major landmarks. You will find colourful shops, cafes, traditional homes, artwork and plenty of everyday local life along the way.

Ideal Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon

Time Needed: 1-2 hours

Entry Fee: Free

Good To Know: Comfortable shoes are useful, and a slow walk often reveals more than simply following a sightseeing route.

Where to Stay: Stay at ELIVAAS Pet-friendly Villas in Udaipur for a spacious and private place to return to after exploring the old city. 

7. Explore Saheliyon Ki Bari

Location: Saheli Marg, Udaipur, Rajasthan

Saheliyon Ki Bari is a peaceful garden known for its fountains, greenery, marble features and landscaped spaces. It is a nice change of pace after visiting larger monuments and works well for families too.

Ideal Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon

Time Needed: 1-1.5 hours

Entry Fee: Paid entry

Good To Know: Carry water and take your time exploring the different sections of the garden.

Where to Stay: ELIVAAS Stay in Udaipur offer a comfortable stay for families looking to combine sightseeing with plenty of downtime. 

8. Watch a Cultural Show at Bagore Ki Haveli

Location: Gangaur Ghat, Udaipur, Rajasthan

Bagore Ki Haveli offers a closer look at Rajasthan’s traditional culture, with its historic setting, collections and evening performances. A cultural show can be a fun way to spend one of your evenings in Udaipur.

Ideal Time to Visit: Evening

Time Needed: 1.5-2 hours

Entry Fee: Paid entry; cultural performances may have separate tickets

Good To Know: Check the performance timings before visiting and arrive early if you want a good seat.

Where to Stay: ELIVAAS Villas near Udaipur Airport provide a comfortable retreat after an evening cultural experience. 

9. Shop for Rajasthani Handicrafts

Location: Hathi Pol, Udaipur, Rajasthan

Udaipur’s markets are full of colourful textiles, jewellery, paintings, pottery and handicrafts. Hathi Pol and Bada Bazaar are good places to browse for souvenirs and traditional products.

Ideal Time to Visit: Late morning or evening

Time Needed: 1-2 hours

Entry Fee: Free

Good To Know: Compare prices before buying, especially when shopping for handicrafts and textiles.

Where to Stay: ELIVAAS Villas with pool in Udaipur are a good option for shoppers who want a spacious stay with room to unwind after exploring the markets. 

10. Enjoy a Rooftop Meal

Location: Old City, Udaipur, Rajasthan

A rooftop meal is one of the easiest ways to enjoy Udaipur’s atmosphere. Many restaurants around the old city offer views of Lake Pichola, the City Palace and the surrounding hills.

Ideal Time to Visit: Sunset and evening

Time Needed: 1.5-2 hours

Entry Fee: No entry fee; food is charged separately

Good To Know: Reserve a table around sunset if you want a good view, especially during weekends.

What Are the Best Things to Do in Udaipur for Couples?

If you are travelling as a couple, the best things to do in Udaipur include plenty of slow and scenic experiences.

• Take a sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola.
• Enjoy a rooftop dinner overlooking the lake.
• Watch the sunset from Sajjangarh Palace.
• Spend an evening at Ambrai Ghat.
• Explore the old city together.
• Take a relaxed walk around Fateh Sagar Lake.
• Choose a private and comfortable stay.

What Are the Best Things to Do in Udaipur with Family?

Families can easily mix sightseeing with experiences that are fun without making the itinerary too tiring.

• Explore the City Palace.
• Take a boat ride on Lake Pichola.
• Visit Saheliyon Ki Bari.
• Spend time around Fateh Sagar Lake.
• Visit Bagore Ki Haveli.
• Explore local markets.
• Enjoy a family meal with a lake view.

What Are the Best Things to Do in Udaipur at Night?

Udaipur becomes especially atmospheric after sunset. The palaces and lakeside buildings light up, while the old city comes alive with restaurants, cafes and evening activity.

• Enjoy a rooftop dinner.
• Walk around Ambrai Ghat.
• Explore the old city markets.
• Watch a cultural performance at Bagore Ki Haveli.
• Enjoy views of the illuminated City Palace.
• Take a relaxed lakeside walk.

What Are the Best Places to Visit Near Udaipur?

If you have an extra day, you can add a few nearby destinations to your trip.

1. Eklingji Temple

Located outside Udaipur, Eklingji is known for its historic temple complex and traditional architecture.

2. Nagda

Nagda is a quieter heritage stop known for its old temples and detailed stone carvings. It can easily be combined with Eklingji.

3. Haldighati

Haldighati is associated with the history of Maharana Pratap and offers a chance to explore the region beyond Udaipur’s lakes and palaces.

4. Jaisamand Lake

Jaisamand Lake is a scenic option for travellers looking for a peaceful day surrounded by hills and water.

5. Kumbhalgarh

For a longer day trip, Kumbhalgarh is known for its impressive fort and surrounding Aravalli landscape.

What Are the Best Travel Tips for Udaipur?

If you are planning to explore the best things to do in Udaipur, these simple tips can make your trip more comfortable.

• Start sightseeing early to avoid the afternoon heat.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the old city.
• Carry sunscreen, sunglasses and a water bottle.
• Book popular experiences such as boat rides ahead during busy periods.
• Keep some cash for local markets and smaller shops.
• Group attractions by area to save travel time.
• Carry a light layer during cooler winter evenings.
• Check cultural show timings before visiting.
• Leave some free time instead of planning every hour.
• Respect local customs when visiting temples and heritage sites.

How to Reach Udaipur?

By Air: Maharana Pratap Airport is the main airport serving Udaipur. From the airport, you can take a taxi or cab to your stay.

By Train: Udaipur City Railway Station connects the city with several major destinations across India and is a convenient option for rail travellers.

By Road: Udaipur is well connected by road with Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Jodhpur, Delhi and other cities. Driving can also be useful if you plan to explore nearby attractions.

Suggested Read: Delhi To Udaipur Travel Guide: Route, Places To Visit & Where To Stay

How to Travel Around Udaipur?

Auto-rickshaws, local taxis and app-based cabs are useful for getting around the city. Walking is often the nicest way to explore the old city and its markets.

For nearby attractions or day trips, hiring a cab for a few hours or the entire day can be more convenient.

What Is the Best Time to Visit Udaipur?

October to February: Winter is generally comfortable for sightseeing, with pleasant days and cooler evenings.

March to June: Temperatures can rise considerably, especially during the afternoon. Plan outdoor sightseeing for mornings and evenings if travelling during these months.

July to September: The monsoon can bring occasional showers and some greenery to the region. Keep an eye on the weather while planning outdoor activities.

Suggested Read: Udaipur In Monsoon: Best Places To Visit, Things To Do & Stays

What to Eat in Udaipur?

The best things to do in Udaipur are not complete without trying some local Rajasthani food.

• Dal Baati Churma: A classic combination of dal, baked baati, and sweet churma.
• Gatte Ki Sabzi: Gram flour dumplings cooked in a flavourful gravy.
• Pyaaz Kachori: A crispy snack filled with spicy onion mixture.
• Mirchi Vada: Fried chillies with a savoury filling.
• Ghewar: A traditional sweet with a light, crisp texture.
• Rajasthani Thali: A great way to sample several local dishes.
• Mawa Kachori: A sweet take on the popular kachori.

Where to Shop in Udaipur?

Shopping is another fun addition to the best things to do in Udaipur, especially if you enjoy handicrafts and traditional products.

• Hathi Pol: Paintings, handicrafts and traditional Rajasthani products.
• Bada Bazaar: Textiles, jewellery, clothing and everyday items.
• Jagdish Temple Market: Small souvenirs and local handicrafts.
• Shilpgram: Traditional arts and crafts.
• Local Markets: Colourful fabrics, miniature paintings, pottery and handmade décor.

Where to Stay in Udaipur?

Where you stay can shape the pace of your holiday. Families and groups often prefer a spacious private stay where they can relax after a full day of exploring.

ELIVAAS Luxury Villas in Udaipur offer a comfortable option for travellers looking for privacy, spacious surroundings and a more personalised stay experience.

Why Choose ELIVAAS?

• Private and spacious villas
• Comfortable stays for families and groups
• Premium hospitality
• Personalised experiences
• Select properties with private pools
• Comfortable spaces to relax after sightseeing
• Transparent pricing with no hidden costs

How Many Days Are Enough for Udaipur?

A 3-day Udaipur trip is enough to experience many of the best things to do in Udaipur without rushing from one attraction to another.

If you have four or five days, you can slow down your itinerary and add nearby places such as Eklingji, Haldighati, Jaisamand Lake or Kumbhalgarh.

A Simple 3-Day Udaipur Itinerary

Day 1: City Palace, Jagdish Temple & Lake Pichola

Start with the City Palace and give yourself enough time to explore its courtyards and historic rooms. Visit Jagdish Temple afterwards and spend some time wandering through the old city.

In the evening, take a boat ride on Lake Pichola and finish the day with a rooftop dinner.

Day 2: Sajjangarh, Saheliyon Ki Bari & Fateh Sagar

Start with Saheliyon Ki Bari and then head towards Fateh Sagar Lake. Spend some time around the waterfront before continuing with your sightseeing.

Later, make your way to Sajjangarh Palace for sunset. Return to the city for dinner and an evening walk.

Day 3: Markets, Culture & Slow Exploration

Keep your final day relaxed. Visit Bagore Ki Haveli, explore the local markets and shop for handicrafts or souvenirs.

If you have time, visit Doodh Talai or Ambrai Ghat before heading home.

Plan Your Udaipur Getaway

The best things to do in Udaipur go beyond visiting one palace after another. Give yourself time to enjoy the lakes, explore the old streets, try local food and experience the city after sunset.

Whether you are planning a romantic escape, a family holiday or a trip with friends, Udaipur makes it easy to build an itinerary around your own pace. Pick a few must-see places, leave room for spontaneous discoveries and let the city’s lakes, palaces and royal charm make the trip memorable.

Suggested Read: 3-Day Udaipur Trip Itinerary: Best Places To Visit, Things To Do & Travel Tips

FAQs About:- Best Things to Do in Udaipur

1. What are the best things to do in Udaipur?

The best things to do in Udaipur include boating on Lake Pichola, exploring the City Palace, visiting Sajjangarh Palace, shopping in local markets and enjoying a rooftop meal.

2. How many days are enough for Udaipur?

Three days are enough to experience the city’s major attractions, food, culture and lakeside experiences.

3. What is Udaipur famous for?

Udaipur is known for its lakes, royal palaces, historic architecture, Rajasthani culture and Aravalli surroundings.

4. Is Udaipur good for couples?

Yes. Boat rides, sunset views, lakeside walks and rooftop dining make Udaipur a popular choice for couples.

5. What are the best things to do in Udaipur at night?

You can enjoy a rooftop dinner, walk around Ambrai Ghat, explore the old city or attend a traditional cultural performance.

6. What is the best time to visit Udaipur?

October to February is generally comfortable for sightseeing, while July to September can offer a quieter monsoon experience.

7. Is Udaipur suitable for a family trip?

Yes. The City Palace, lakes, gardens, boat rides and markets offer a good mix of experiences for families.

8. Where should I stay in Udaipur?

Families and groups can consider ELIVAAS Luxury Villas in Udaipur for a spacious and private stay.

9. What food should I try in Udaipur?

Try dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, pyaaz kachori, mirchi vada, ghewar and a traditional Rajasthani thali.

10. Which places can I visit near Udaipur?

Eklingji, Nagda, Haldighati, Jaisamand Lake and Kumbhalgarh are popular options for day trips.