Udaipur! Whenever I hear the name of this city, an image of cool lakes, sparkling palaces, and tranquility conjures up images in my mind. People call it the ‘Venice of the East,’ but to be honest, Udaipur has a unique identity all its own. It’s a magic that’s not just present in pictures, but also permeates the air.
Last year, a friend and I made a surprise trip to Udaipur for a weekend. Our trip was completely spontaneous, and from the beginning until the end, it became the trip closest to my heart . If you too want to feel royal and are wondering what to see in just 48 hours, then this personal guide is for you.
The Journey Begins: The First Day – Royal Feeling and Evening Magic
Our train reached Udaipur early in the morning. That mild morning sunshine, and as we moved towards the Old City , for the first time I felt like I was on a film set . We had booked our hotel (which was a Haveli ) near Lake Pichola . When I looked out of my room window, the splendor of the City Palace and the view of the Lake Palace (Taj Hotel) in the middle of the lake … Wow! In that moment, all the tiredness vanished.
Morning view: City Palace and Jagdish Temple
We started the day at the City Palace to avoid the large crowds.
- City Palace: History and View’s Union
- My Personal Touch: Looking at the City Palace, it seems that every corner must have been worked on with heart . Its deewareins, courtyards, and that Mor Chowk where most of the rooms are made of glass (mirror work) – seeing all this really amazed me. When I was standing on the top floor and the entire lake was visible, I realized how different the life of the kings and emperors was. Tip: While touring the Palace, definitely take a good guide, it is fun to listen to their stories.
- Jagdish Temple: Shanti Ka Ehsaas (Feeling of Peace)
- Just outside the City Palace is the Jagdish Temple . It’s a magnificent and ancient temple . Upon arriving, the noise suddenly subsides, and a unique sense of peace prevails.
🌙 The First Light of the Evening: The Real Magic of Udaipur
In the afternoon, we ate Rajasthani thali from a rooftop cafe overlooking the lake . What a taste! Be sure to try the Dal Bati Churma. The real fun begins in the evening when the sun sets and Udaipur turns on its ‘Royal Lights’.
- Lake Pichola Boat Ride: Sunset Ka Suroor
- This is a must-do! Be sure to take a boat ride at 4:30 or 5:00 in the evening. When the boat reaches the middle of the lake, yellow and orange lights are scattered all around. Jag Mandir and Lake Palace start shining like gold. The boat stops at Jag Mandir, where you can roam around a bit. I drank a cup of coffee there and felt the royal atmosphere to my heart’s content. This moment was so romantic and peaceful that I forgot everything.
- Ambrai Ghat: Photographer’s Paradise
- After the boat ride, you can head to Ambrai Ghat . This ghat is right next to Hanuman Ghat and offers the best views of the City Palace, Lake Palace, and Jag Mandir . After dark, when the light from these three places falls on the water, it appears as if pearls of diamonds are floating in the water. I sat there for a long time, taking photos, and simply admiring the view.
- City Palace Light and Sound Show (Agar time mile toh)
- If you’d like to experience history in a more immersive way, you can watch the evening light and sound show at the City Palace . This show tells the story of the kings of Mewar through light and sound.
Last Day of the Journey: Nature, Views, and Cultural Evening
The next day, we started a little early to enjoy the peace and cool breeze .
Morning Beauty: Sea of Fate and Greenery
- Fateh Sagar Lake:
- It’s a little different from Pichola—a more open and long lake. We went for a morning walk here. Having tea and breakfast on the banks of Fateh Sagar is a pleasure in itself. The weather here is much more relaxing than the crowded surroundings of Pichola .
- Friends’ Turn:
- A little further from Fateh Sagar is this beautiful garden. Saheliyon ki Bari means “Garden of the Maidens.” Fountains, greenery, and beautiful marble terraces abound here. It’s a sight to behold, a space filled with comfort and beauty the Maharaja must have created for his queen and her companions .
Afternoon: Bazaar and Local Touch
In the afternoon, we wandered through the city market . At Hathi Pol and Bada Bazaar , I picked up some Bandhani print saris and small miniature paintings . Tip: Don’t forget to bargain here ; people here love it! I even bought a small elephant statue from a local shop, which will always be a reminder of this trip.
🌙 Second Evening Grand Finale: Culture and Sunset View
This evening we named two of the most famous places. First, the sights, and then the culture.
- Sajjangarh/Monsoon Palace: Best Sunset View
- And then the last and most spectacular place! Sajjangarh Palace , or Monsoon Palace, is perched on a hilltop. It’s best to visit in the evening . You can take a taxi or auto to get there. Upon arriving, you have a view of all of Udaipur —lakes, palaces, and the city glittering in the evening light.
- My Personal Touch: When I sat on the wall there and the sun started setting , it seemed as if the entire city was shining in front of me . Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar, and that City Palace… all in one frame. That deep orange color as it spreads in the sky and the yellow lights of the city start glowing below – this was a moment which I can never forget. This was the perfect farewell to Udaipur. On the way to Monsoon Palace, there is also a Wildlife Sanctuary , which is good for nature lovers.
- Bagore Ki Haveli: The Spirit of Culture and the Last Dinner
- Upon returning from Sajjangarh, if you’re not tired, head straight to the Dharohar Dance Show at Bagore Ki Haveli . This show starts at 7 p.m. I was amazed by Rajasthani folk dance, puppet show, and Bhavai dance (in which the dancers dance with 8-9 pots on their heads) . If you want to see authentic Rajasthani culture , don’t miss this show! Tickets are available online or at the counter there.
- After the show, we had dinner at a rooftop restaurant (like Ambrai or Upre) near Gangaur Ghat . Eating in the cool breeze, in front of the glittering lights of the City Palace, felt like guests of a king. It was the most beautiful ending to a memorable evening in Udaipur.
A few more personal tips that will make your travel easier:
- Accommodation: It’s best to stay near Lake Pichola (Lal Ghat or Gangaur Ghat area). All the famous places are nearby, and evening views are available right from the hotel.
- Transport: Walking is best in the Old City. For other locations, auto-rickshaws are the best option. Always negotiate your fare in advance .
- Food: More than rooftop cafes, be sure to try local street food (like Mirchi Vada and Poha ). And yes, Dal Baati Churma is a must!
Udaipur isn’t just a city, it’s a feeling . Every street, every lake, and every palace holds tales of kings . Spending two days in this royal city feels like turning the most beautiful page of your life .
That’s it, my Udaipur trip is over. Now it’s your turn to experience this magic. These evening views will make you fall in love with this city. Happy Traveling!
This entire blog post is based on my personal experience . All information provided here, such as location timings, boat ride times, and rates,is current at the time of my trip . All of this is subject to change with time or weather. Therefore, please double-check the latest information before embarking on your trip . Ensure safety and comfort throughout your journey. Happy traveling!
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