From Wikitravel

Udaipur[1], the capital of the former princly state ofMewaris a beautiful city inRajasthan,Indiafamous for its lakes and palaces. A current tourist favorite, especially for up-market Westerners, it was a backdrop for numerous movies including the James Bond flick "Octopussy".

[edit]Understand

Udaipur is referred to as the "Venice of the East", the "Most Romantic City of India" and the "Kashmir of Rajasthan" (a reference to Dal Lake) and not without reason. Tourists flock to this enchanting old & modern town in the heart of the Aravalli Mountains, which offers three interconnected lakes within the town - theFateh Sagar Lake, theLake Pichholaand the smallerSwaroop Sagar Lake; along with forts, palaces, temples, gardens, mountains and narrow lanes lines withdrawn with stalls, relives the reminisces of a heroic past, valor and chivalry.

[edit]History

Udaipur was the capital of the Rajput kingdom of Mewar, ruled by the Sisodia clan with jhala's loyalty. The founder of Udaipur was Rana Udai Singh, father of Maharana Pratap. The ancient capital of Mewar was Nagda, located on the Banas River northeast of Udaipur. Legend has it that Maharana Udai Singh came upon a hermit while hunting in the foothills of the Aravalli Range.

In 1568, the Mughal emperor Akbar capturedChittorgarh, and Udai Singh moved the capital to the site of his residence, which became the city of Udaipur. As the Mughal empire weakened, the Sisodia ranas, and later maharanas, reasserted their independence and recaptured most of Mewar district. Udaipur remained the capital of the state, which became a princely state of British India in 1818.

After India's Independence in 1947, the Maharaja of Udaipur acceded to the Government of India, and Mewar was integrated into India's Rajasthan state.

[edit]Culture

Udaipur receives ample number of tourists from all over the world every year. The city is still inhabited by people of Bhil tribe. Udaipur dwellers are really friendly and good to be with. On your first look, you will find them rugged, but these people are really good at heart. Untouched by the pace of modern times, these desert people are well-built, simple and cheerful. Here, people usually prefer wearing bright colored clothes. Colorful festivals and fairs depict the cultural prosperity of Udaipur.

[edit]Climate

The climate of Udaipur is tropical, with the mercury staying between a maximum of 42.3°C and a minimum of 28.8°C during summers. Winters are mild with the maximum temperature rising to 28.8°C and the minimum dipping to 2.5°C. Best time to visit is during the winters preferably September to March.

[edit]Get in

Udaipur is easily accessible from every major destinations of India. The city is well connected withAgra630km,Delhi670km,Mumbai(formerly Bombay) 739km,Ahmedabad260km,Ajmer265km,Chittorgarh115km,Jaipur405km andJodhpurby 275km.

[edit]By air

Dabok airport, also known as Maharana Pratap Airport, is 24km from the city centre.There are daily flights fromDelhi,MumbaiandJaipuronJet Airways,Indian Airlines,Air Deccan, andKingfisher Airlines. Taxis to the city cost almost INR 600 and are the only means of transport to and from airport.

[edit]By train

Train service has improved over the last few years after Udaipur was converted to broad gauge railway line. There are now daily trains fromNew DelhiandJaipur. You can take Mewar Express (Train No. 2963DN) from H. Nizamuddin Station, which leaves at 7.00 P.M. and reaches Udaipur at 7.00 A.M. next day. One can also travel by broad guage trains up toAjmerand then take bus from Ajmer to Udaipur.

If you coming from Western or Southern India, take a train toMumbaiand then an overnight train to Udaipur. Alternatively, you can take a train toAhmedabadand then, travel by any express train that leaves in the evening for Udaipur for an overnight journey.

[edit]By bus

Udaipur is connected by an efficient bus service with mostRajasthanitowns includingJaipur,Jodhpur,Bikaner,Ajmer,Mount Abu. Buses also head south toAhmedabadwith connections toMumbaibut it is not a short journey. There are comfortable sleeper coaches available for longer trips.

The city lies on the Golden Quadrilateral, midway betweenDelhiandMumbaiNational Highway (NH) 8; it is around 700km from either metro. The roads in this part of the country are paved and fit for private vehicles.

State Transport Authorities and private tour agents operates daily buses between Udaipur-Jaipur, Udaipur-Delhi, Udaipur-Ahmedbad, Udaipur-Jodhpur. Some of these buses also have sleeper coaches for a comfortable journey.

[edit]Get around

Most of the sightseeing places in Udaipur centered around theLake Pichholaand can be seen on foot. However, hiring a local cab or three-wheeler is the best option is you could good to bargain.

[edit]By car rental

You can easily visit Udaipur by hiring a car to drive. There are many car rental companies available which provides cars on rent. You would require to submit the photocopy of your international driver's license to rent vehicles. Prices depend on the kind of transport you rent and the length of time you rent it for.

[edit]By taxi

A taxi is needed for viewing more of the surrounding areas such as the nearby wilderness park andMonsoon Palace- which provides a nice view especially at sunset. In Udaipur, you will not find black and yellow taxis, which are regularly visible in the metropolitan cities. If you are touring the city, you can hire taxi/cab that is available in variety, ranging from luxurious cabs to average ones. You can choose taxi as per your preference, comfort and luxury. The luxurious you opt, higher the rent you have to pay.

[edit]By autorickshaws

The best option to travel around Udaipur is to opt for autorickshaws or three-wheelers, which are easily available throughout the city. Do bargain with the drivers for the cab fare: Rs 150-200 is the usual price for the round-trip from City Palace including the wait time (approximately 1 hour).

The drivers are sometimes overly courteous, especially to single female foreigners. Use your better judgment while traveling to distant locations alone.

[edit]By horsecarts

Horsecarts or tongas (as they are known locally) is the cheapest mode and available mostly within the tourist areas. Tongas being the cheapest mode to travel, is used by local people to a great extent.

[edit]By bicycle

To make your trip interesting, you can also enjoy bicycle ride. Udaipur is a small city and not crowded with vehicles, so one can get around the city on a bicycle. You can hire bicycles that are available all over the city.

[edit][add listing]See

Udaipur offers numerous tourist attractions to gratify the thirst of tourists. Places of interest could be different for different persons. The beautiful palaces of the city depict the lavish lifestyle of the ancient rulers. The temples of Udaipur are known for their striking architecture and impressive structures. The gardens of Udaipur would definitely help you to lighten up with their refreshing appeal. Apart from these, the city has one of the best solar observatory worth visiting.

[edit]Udaipur City Palace

The splendid City Palace, posing over the fascinating Lake Pichola, is one of the most beautiful palatial structure. The elegant palace originally built by Mahrana Uday Singh II rises 30 meters above Lake Pichola and extended up to 244 meters.

The City Palace of Udaipur has number of small and big palaces, museums and the gardens. There are many popular palaces inside the City Palace Complex. The unique aspect of this conglomeration is that the architectural design (a rich blend of Rajasthani, Mughal, Medieval, European and Chinese Architecture) is distinctly homogeneous and eye catching.

The palace complex has been built entirely in granite and marble. The interiors of the palace complex with its balconies, towers and cupolas exhibit delicate mirror-work, marble-work, murals, wall paintings, silver-work, inlay-work and leftover of colored glass. The complex provides a fine view of the lake and the Udaipur city from its upper terraces.

[edit]Key destinations in City Palace

• Amar Vilas- The uppermost court inside the complex, which is a raised garden. It provides entry to the Badi Mahal. It is a pleasure pavilion built in Mughal style. It has cusped arcades enclosing a square marble tub. 'Amar Vilas' is the highest point of the City palace and has wonderful hanging gardens with fountains, towers and terraces.

• Badi Mahal- Also known as Garden Palace is the exotic central garden palace that is situated on a 27 metres (89 ft) high natural rock formation vis-a-vis the rest of the palace. The rooms on the ground floor appear to be at the level of the fourth floor in view of the height difference to its surrounding buildings.

• Durbar Hall- Built in 1909 within the Fatepraksh Palace (now a heritage hotel), the hall was used by the royal ladies to observe the court proceedings. This hall has luxuriant interion with some unusually large chandeliers. Weapons of the maharanas and also some of their unique portraits are also depcited here.

• Fatehprakash Palace- Now run as luxury hotel and inaccessible to public viewing has a crystal gallery that consists of crystal chairs, dressig tables, sofas, tables, chairs and beds, crockery, table fountains which were never used. There is also a unique jewel studded carpet here.

• Jagadish Temple- Located 150m north of the palace in Indo-Aryan architectural style, the temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple walls and the shikara or tower are decorated with carvings of Vishnu, scenes from Lord Krishna’s life and figurines of nymphs or apsaras. The street square, where the temple is located, is also known as Jagdish Chowk from where several roads radiate in different directions.

• Krishna Vilas- Another chamber in Fatehprakash Palance with rich collection of miniature paintings that portray royal processions, festivals and games of the Maharanas. However, there is tragic story linked to this wing of the City Palace. In the nineteenth century, a royal princess was unable to choose from two suitors seeking her hand in marriage, one from the royal family of Jaipur and another from Jodhpur, and hence in a state of dilemma, she poisoned herself to death.

• Manak Mahal- Approach from the Manak Chowk, the palace has a raised alcove inlaid completely in mirror glass. One of the prominent emblems of Sun is depicted on the façade of the Manak Chowk, which can also be seen from the outermost court.

• Mor ChowkorPecock Sqaure- A pillared hall with glass and mirror mosaic decorations is integral to the inner courts of the palace. The elaborate design of this chamber consists of three peacocks (representing the three seasons of summer, winter and monsoon) modeled in high relief and faced with coloured glass mosaic, built into successive niches in the wall area or jharoka. These were built during Maharana Sajjan Singh’s reign, 200 years after the palace was established. The peacocks have been crafted with 5000 pieces of glass, which shine in green, gold and blue colours. In an adjoining chamber, called the Kanch-ki-Burj, mosaic of mirrors adorn the walls. The Badi Charur Chowk within this chowk is a smaller court for private use. Its screen wall has painted and inlaid compositions depicting European men and Indian women.

• Zenana MahalorWomen's Palace- Proceeding further from the Mor Chowk, in the Zenana Mahal or women’s quarters (now converted into museum) is exquisitely designed alcoves, balconies, coloured windows, tiled walls and floors are seen.

• Rang Bhawan- The palace that used to contain royal treasure. There are temples of Lord Krishna, Meerabai and Shiva, located here.

• Sheesh Mahal- The palace of mirrors and glasses was built in 1716. A shrine of Dhuni Mata is also located in the complex. This location is considered as the oldest part of the Palace, where a sage spent his entire life meditating.

[edit]Lakes

Udaipur is a lovely blend of water, lush green hills that set fire and passion in poet and considered as Venice of East. The city has 5 beautiful lakes that adds to ite kaleidoscope.

• Fateh Sagar Lake- An artificial lake constructed by Maharana in north of Lake Pichola in 1678 and to the north-west of Udaipur. Within the confines of the Fateh Sagar Lake, there are three small islands.; the largest of these is called the Nehru Park, the second island houses a public park with an impressive water-jet fountain and the third island is the address for the Udaipur Solar Observatory. Every year a festival called the Hariyali Amavasya Mela (Green New Moon Fair) is organized at the lake precincts,in the month of August/September.

• Pichola Lake- An artificial fresh water lake, created in the year 1362 AD, named after the nearby Picholi village. The lake’s surroundings and the several islands within the lake have been developed over the centuries, with palaces, marble temples, family mansions, and bathing ghats. The famous Lake Palace (now converted into a heritage hotel) is located in the middle of the lake. Two islands, Jag Niwas and Jag Mandir are located within Pichola Lake. Local buses, Tongas, auto-rickshaws and taxis provide the needed transport.

[edit]Other Attractions

Though, the city is otherwise small and most of the tourist places will take approximately 20-25 minutes for viewing but visit as each one has its own unique architecture that worth viewing.

• Saheliyon ki Badi- Built by Maharana Bhopal Singh. Saheliyon ki Bari means Garden of the Maids. This garden area lies in northern part of the city and has fountains and kiosks, a lotus pool and marble elephants. Each water channel has its distinct sound and the mingling of these sounds complement the ambience of the place. There is also a small museum here. Sahelion Ki Bari' was laid for a group of forty-eight young women attendants who accompanied a princess to Udaipur as part of her dowry.

• Sukhadia Circle- A large roundabout in the city's northern suburb of Panchwati, on the road to Ranakpur and Mt. Abu. centrepiece of the Circle is a large, three-tiered fountain just over 21 m. high, with scalloped dishes surmounted by a wheat-ear motif, representing prosperity. Illuminated at night, it is now a well-known landmark.

• Udaipur Solar Observatory- Located on an island in the Fateh Sagar Lake, the observatory is claimed to be one of the Asia's largest. The observatory was built in the year 1976 by Dr. Arvind Bhatanagar following the model of the Solar Observatory at Big Bear lake inSouthern California.

• Gulab Bagh and Zoo- A rose garden laid out by Maharaja Sajjan Singh is situated near the palace on the east side of Lake Pichhola. A library in the garden has a collection of ancient handwritten manuscripts and books. Within the garden, there is a zoo with tigers, leopards, chinkara gazelle, birds, and many wild animals. Children can enjoy mini train, track of which covers the main part of the garden and the zoo.

• Doodh Talai- A rock and fountain garden and the sunset point from which one can enjoy the sunset view in Lake Pichhola and a panoramic view of the old city. Also one can enjoy the Aerial tramway (rope way) which connects one of the dudh talai gardens to Karni Mata temple.

• Nehru Garden- This is a park situated in the middle of Fateh Sager Lake. This park covers about 41 acres (170,000 m2), with flower gardens and a lily pond. It was inaugurated on the birth anniversary of the first Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru. The garden overlooks the ancient Moti Mahal of Maharana Pratap and gives a view of the Aravalli hills on three sides.

• Bagore-ki-Haveli- An old building built right on the waterfront of Lake Pichola at Gangori Ghat. Amir Chand Badwa, the Prime Minister of Mewar, built it in the eighteenth century. The palace has over a hundred rooms, with displays of costumes and modern art. The building has a large and exquisite collection of Mewar painting and glassworks.

• Ahar Museum- The Ahar Cenotaphs are a group of royal cenotaphs located in Ahar, about 2km east of Udaipur. The site contains more than 250 cenotaphs of the maharajas of Mewar that were built over approximately 350 years. There are 19 chhatris that commemorate the 19 maharajas who were cremated here.

[edit]Excursions

Udaipur offers great excursions to its outskirts. Hire a cab or explore by yourself to the some of the great escapades on the city outskirts.

• Eklingji Temple- 22km north of Udaipur is one of the most famous temples of Rajasthan. The magnificent architecture of Eklingnath Temple is simply remarkable.
• Haldighati- An important historical site in the context of Rajasthan at a comfortable distance of 40 kms from the city of Udaipur. The term Haldighati has been derived from the yellow colored soil of the place that gives a sense of turmeric (in Hindi).
• Jagat Temple- Being located at the village called Jagat, at a distance of 58kms in the south-east of Udaipur. Built in 961 A.D, the Jagat Temple is renowned for its intricate carvings in the exteriors.
• Kankroli- A small town, located at a distance of 65 kms from the city of Udaipur mainly known for its temple, which is sited on the banks of renowned Rajsamand Lake.
• Nagda- Located besides Bagela Lake at a distance of 23 kms in the north-west of Udaipur on the way to Nathdwara. Nagda comprises many small and big temples, but the main attraction is gained by its 'Sas-Bahu' temple.

[edit][add listing]Do

Since the city has been the home of the Royalty, the methods of leisure are distinctly imperial. Entertainment in Udaipur doesn't match the tune of Discos and parties of the metropolitan cities.

[edit]Horseback riding at Princess Trails

What camel riding is in Jaisalmer, horseback riding is in Udaipur, a must! Situated in the middle of the Aravalli-Mountains, Udaipur offers a fantastic landescape and unrivaled views. Various operators offer horse rides here, one of the best choices being Princess Trails[2].

Good option is the Krishna Ranch. They offer similar kind of services as others, ranch is situated about 7 km from Udaipur. It is also possible to overnight there as they have cottages. Toilet and shower is in separate building, vegetarian meals provided. Same people run Hotel Kumbha Palace, 104 Bhattiyani Chohatta in Udaipur town, just next to City Palace.

[edit]Camel Riding

Camel Safari is another feature of entertainment in Udaipur and would be really a memorable experience for you. Tourists usually enjoy this unusual ride mounting on the back of camels roaming in the deserts of Rajasthan. The adventurous Camel Safari will acquire your one whole day. In this expedition, you will start from a definite point in the city and get into the interiors of the desert. If you want to meet the tribals, you can encounter them on your journey. During your trip, you need not to worry about your food as our tour operators would arrange for your breakfast and lunch. Enjoy the beauty of lofty lakes, architectural temples, majestic forts and palaces of Udaipur.

[edit]Puppet Show

Puppet shows make the best part of Udaipur recreation. Being an inseparable aspect of Rajasthani culture, Puppet shows of Udaipur are really captivating. These shows are arranged by the Hotels to entertain their guests during their stay. Otherwise, you can always go to Bharatiya Lok Kala Museum to enjoy the exclusive puppet show in the evenings. The puppets attract people with their innocent faces, bright colored dresses, and dazzling jewelry.

[edit]Theatre Shows

. You can make a move to Chetak and Swapnalok theatre that are located near Chetak Circle. Other options could be Ashoka theatre and Picture Palace in Surajpol.

[edit]Guided Tours

Approved guides for local sightseeing can be hired through the Tourist Officer, Tourist Reception Centre, Fateh Memorial, Outside Surajpole. Daily tours, conducted by Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation, start from RTDC hotel Kajri, Shashtri Circle.

[edit]Ropeway in Udaipur

Spend the evening overlooking the city lights from the high altitude. Udaipur's ropeway servicces gives a chance to have bird's view of the entire city. Recently started Karni Mata Ropeway has been getting popular amongst domestic and international tourists. Its a ride of about 500m from Doodh Talai Garden to Ropeway junction (to the adjacent hill). A multi-cuisine Restaurant adds up to the reson for staying longer on top of hill and keep staring the natural beauty around.

• Where to reach : Ropeway Point, Din Dayal Garden, Dudh Talai, near Lake Pichola.
• Timing : 10AM to 10PM (So you can dine till fairly late at the Ivy view Restaurant on top of Hill)
• Cost: INR 60/- per adult and INR 30/- per kid

[edit][add listing]Buy

While passing through the markets of Udaipur, you would trace many articles that can make part of your wardrobe and lifestyle too. These markets present an assortment of items covering handicrafts, pottery, jewelry, wooden toys, antique items and paintings. Udaipur is particularly famous for its miniature paintings inspired by style of Rajputs & Mughals. These range in price from as little as a INR 100/- and make a beautiful gift or keepsake.

They may range from toys, bewitching puppets, wall hangings, pen stands, cloth lanterns, handmade papers, painted wooden box to Greeting cards. Udaipur has an assortment pottery too that can be availed in both metal and mud. Pottery covers all kings of pots, plates, vessels and different kinds of containers. Apart from this, brassware and terracotta sculptures are also popular.

Coming to the shopping places, Hathi Pol, Bada Bazaar, Chetak Circle, Bada Bazaar and Palace Road are some of the popular shopping arcades of Udaipur. While shopping in these markets, don't forget to bargain with the shopkeepers to get the value of your money. If you are running short of time to explore the markets, the Government of Rajasthan has made adequate arrangements for you.

• Rukmani Art Gallery,Main Road, Hotel Oberoi Udaivilas,☎0091 98297 90949,[3].This gallery offers a range of art pieces including marble art, ethnic furniture and gifts and souvenirs. edit
• Rajasthali Emporium,Chetak Circle, Udaipur.The government fixed-price emporium is worth dropping into to gauge handicraft prices. edit
• Mangalam,Sukhadia Circle, Udaipur, Raj.,☎0294/256-0259.The shop is best for textiles, handicrafts, dhurries, and a variety of products. edit
• Sadhna,Kee Baudi, Kasaron Ki, Gangaur Ghat, Udaipur,☎+91-294-245-4655,[4].10:00-19:00.Browse for hand-stitched garments, homewares, and linens. A purchase here means contributing to the income of 500 rural and tribal women who are involved in this enterprise. edit
• City Palace Museum Shop,City Palace, Udaipur.A good place to purchase miniature paintings (it has its unique style, but if you're looking for a bargain, you're better off purchasing in off-the-beaten-track towns, like Bundi) and pichhwai paintings -- wall hangings painted on cloth or silk edit

• Smile Merchants,Bhattiyani Chohatta(near Jagdish Temple),☎0294-2418509.An exclusive collection of leather Items including belts, wallets, ladies handbags, laptop bags and accessories, jackets mens and womens, leather luggage. edit

[edit][add listing]Eat

You are in Mewar! You must not miss the opportunity to have the really loadedDaal-Baati-Choorma. It is an experience you will remember forever. Look out for a helping ofGatte-ki-sabzi, as well. Udaipur is also famous for its spicy snacks -Mirchi bada,Kachori, etc. Also, for those with insatiable appetites and no desire for self-service, there are a couple of worthwhile Thali restaurants where you can get unlimited servings of a selection of Rajasthani and Gujarati dishes (rotis, savoury bites, daals, vegetables, rice, sweets and more):

• Mewar Haveli Rooftop Restaurant,34-35 Lal Ghat, Udaipur,☎91-294-2521140, 2422108,[5].Situated at view of Lake Pichola and behind Jagdish Temple. Coverd dinning and rooftop restaurant with beautiful and romantic Lake View. edit
• The Whistling Teal,103 Bhatiyani Chohatta, Udaipur(inside Jhadhol Haveli),☎0294/242-2067, 094-1416-3727.One of the most romantic dining spot in Udaipur with relatively nice view of oasis in the city. Sitting arrangements are done either at lawn or under canopies with exquisite traditional Rajasthani thalis. edit
• Savage Garden,22, Inside Chandpole,☎0294/242-5440.Set over several floors of a pleasant building with cascading bougainvilleas and a towering banana tree in its blue-walled courtyard. Besides some standard Indian fare, you can order toned-down, simplified versions of traditional cuisine, such as "spinach mutton," served with boiled potatoes (boiled, not fried!), or grilled fish with mash, and even an unusual vegetarian "Kela curry" or "Banana curry".INR 70 - 100.  edit
• Hukam, the Family Restaurant,Hotel Broadway Burman Chamber UIT Bridge Saheli Marg,☎0294-256-0400,[6].A multi-cuisine restaurant serving traditional indian, mughlai and rajasthani dishes. Also serves Chinese, Continental, and Sizzlers. edit
• Ambrai Hotel,Outside Chandpole(Nearby Lake Pichola),☎0294-2431085.situated at water level right on Lake Pichola across from the Lake Palace Hotel and the City Palace Museum. Beautiful place to relax after a long jaunt on the road and to take in the nightly fireworks show. Most rickshaw drivers know the place by name. Reservation mandatory.INR 120.00 and above.  edit
• Cafe Edelweiss,71, Gangaur Ghat, Udaipur,☎0294-2425440.Serves & delicious Espresso, Cakes, Salads, Sanwiches. edit
• Hotel Natraj,22-24 City Station Road, Udaipur(near Bapu Bazaar),☎+91-294-2487488, +91-94147-57893,[7].A new and very popular restaurant near the train station serves Gujarati (sweet) and Rajasthani Thali for Rs.75 per person - bluish lights but very good food, clean and modern.INR 75.00.  edit
• Bawarchi Restaurant,6 Delhi Gate, E of Gangaur Ghat, Udaipur.A jumping local thali joint where you can eat well and be merry for not a lot of money. Serves thali at Rs.45 per person served upstairs at this popular restaurant in Delhi Gate - clean, bright and tasty.INR 45.00 for thali.  edit
• Paratha Hut,Lake Palace Road.Hut is famous for its lip-smacking parathas (breads). edit
• Berry's,Chetak Circle, Udaipur.A decent, clean indoor restaurant with good food at Chetak Circle. Mostly visited by locals< reasonable prices. edit
• Shiv Niwas Palace Restaurant,City Palace, Udaipur,☎0294-252-8016.Inside & outdoor restaurants in this beautiful old palace. Traditionally dressed waiters serve superb food from a varied menu. A great place for that special occasion. edit
• Trident Hotel Restaurant,Haridasji Ki Magri, Udaipur,☎0294-243-2200.Superb in every way. You can choose between a-la-carte or the marvelous buffet which is one of the best in Udaipur; a visual delight & a gourmet's paradise at a very reasonable price. The restaurant is attractive, luxurious, relaxed & has a traditional touch. edit

[edit][add listing]Drink

• Cafe Coffee Day,Gulab bagh, Udaipur,☎0294-3251162.10.00 A.M. - 11.00 P.M..Cafe Coffee Day is famous coffee shop in Udaipur. The chain serves a wide varieties of coffees with Pizza & Sandwiches. All major credit cards are accepted. edit

• Govinda's Cafeteria,Gulab bagh(City Palace Rd).9AM-9PM.Serves realLavazzaespresso. They have a nice real espresso machine and serve a huge variety of excellent Italian coffee. Shakes and frappes also available. Espresso Rs 40, caffe latte Rs 55, cappuccino Rs 50. Spoil yourself with an amazingly yummy brownie shake (made with a whole piece of brownie, chocolate ice-cream and milk, tastes to die for) for Rs 120. With A/C. edit

• RTDC Hotel Kajri,Shastri Circle, Udaipur,☎+91-141-5040211.10.00 A.M. - 11.00 P.M..Let your spirits soar high at the well stocked bar of Hotel Kajri in Udaipur. The bar features an eclectic selection of both Indian and Rajasthani liquor and wine. edit
• Fatehprakash Palace Hotel,City Palace(On the Lake Pichola),☎0294 528008.7:30 A.M. - 10:30 P.M..The open air Sunset Terrace at the Fateh Prakash Palace hotel becomes the heart of the City Palace Complex. People flock there to have a drink, and watch Lake Pichola. edit
• Garden Hotel Udaipur,Gulab Bagh Road, Udaipur.Guests choosing to stay at the Garden Hotel Udaipur will be able to dine at the onsite restaurant. They will also be able to have a drink at the garden bar. edit

[edit][add listing]Sleep

There are many hotels in Udaipur which suit to the requirements of all categories of traveler. Majority of the Udaipur hotels offer a view of the placid waters of the Lake Pichola. For those who want to have a luxurious as well as completely fulfilling time in Udaipur, the luxury hotels in Udaipur are the best choice. The luxury and heritage hotels of Udaipur include some of the best known hotels in northern India.

For the large number of tourists traveling on a budget, there are numerous low cost places to stay in Udaipur. These hotels are clustered around the City Station road which is a bustling area. There are also many hotels between the Bandstand to the City palace. Their scattered location and low tariffs make them attractive to most tourists.

[edit]Budget

• Hotel Padmini Palace,27, Garden Road, Udaipur(0.5km from bus stand),☎0294-241-4191,[8]. checkin:9.00 A.M.; checkout:9.00 A.M..Hotel Padmini Palace in Udaipur is situated in the heart of the Udaipur city with all modern facilities to make your stay meomrable.INR 1300 - 5500.  edit

• Hotel Gangaur Palace,339, Ashoka haveli, Gangaur Ghat Marg, Udaipur,☎+91 294 2422303.This is classic cheapie has faded haveli charm and is set around a courtyard. Pay the extra rupees for a window seat, and bathroom. The rooftop restaurant has an island calm.INR 400.00 for double bed.  edit

• Pleasure Guest House.A quiet place to take pleasure with a garden restaurant and lovely view of most tourist places, lakes, markets, and city roads. edit

• Anjani Hotel,77, Gangour Ghat Marg, Udaipur(north side of near Dechra Mata),☎0294-2421770,[9].A royal palace converted to a hotel is a perfect blend of traditional Indian hospitality and modern day conveniences. All rooms are with attached bath, balcony and jharokha facing towards lakes, fort, hills and swimming-pool. The roof-top restaurant serves various kinds of Indian, Continental, and Chinese cuisine. edit

• Hotel Kumbha Palace,104, Bhattiyani Chohatta, Udaipur,☎9828059505, 9828059506,[10].Run by Dutch-Indian couple, the hotel is charming and peaceful budget-hotel situated in the heart of Udaipur’s old city with spacious, clean and bright rooms have attached toilet. There is an excellent roof-top restaurant with great views on the City Palace and the old city.INR 300 - 900.  edit

• Hotel Rajkamal International,Bhuwana, 123, Bye pass Road, Udaipur,☎2942440770 2942440850,[11].A budget hotel that promises a memorable stay at very economical price. The restaurants food tastes just like your home food! edit

[edit]Mid-range

• Mewar Haveli,34-35 Lal Ghat, Udaipur,☎0294-2521140,[12].Mewar Haveli is a delightful hotel in the style of a traditional Rajasthani Haveli. The newly-built hotel stands proudly on the banks of the lovely Lake Pichola. It offers amazing views of Lake Pichola, the Old City, Lake Palace, Jagmandir Island Palace and the rugged Aravali range. The hotel is elegantly appointed and tastefully designed to offer a comfortable and cosy stay.INR 1000 - 1500.  edit

• Jagat Niwas Palace Hotel,24 - 25 Lal Ghat, Udaipur,☎0294-2422860,[13].A 17th century with its charm and aesthetics with its rooms restored back to their old charm and glory are surrounded by the ancient havelis and temples, they are situated around a central courtyard which is approached through a narrow archway from the Jagdish temple and the old city.INR 1700 - 6500.  edit

• Vishnupriya Hotel,9 Garden Road Near Gulab Bagh, Udaipur,☎0294-2421313,[14].A heritage hotel offering hospitality of high end hotels along with affordability. Hotel Vishnupriya has 51 well appointed rooms, mouth watering cuisine and host of facilities make it a hotel of your choice. edit

• Mahendra Prakash,Gulab Bagh Rd, Udaipur(5 minute driveway from Udaipur railway station),☎+91-294-2419811, 2411214,[15]. checkout:12:00 P.M..A family-run haveli-style hotel with 26 rooms, situated on Lake Palace Road overlooking the Sajan Niwas Gardens. All rooms are well furnished and can accommodate family of four as well as business executives. Also offers ayurvedic massage and horse riding facilities. Accepts Visa and Mastercard.INR 1200 - 3000.  edit

• Mountain Ridge,Mountain Ridge, Sisarma, Udaipur,☎+91-294-329-1478, +91-960-219-2902,[16].Outside the ancient village of Sisarma, the hotel offers peaceful environment to stay. There is so much you can do - swimming in the pool, trekking, going on a village safari, bird watching, mountain walking, having a massage or just sitting & relaxing with your favorite book with a soothing sounds of nature in the garden.INR 1700 - 4000.  edit

• Hotel Lake Shore,Outside Chand pole, Hanuman Ghat, Udaipur,☎0091-982-804-5083.A 200-year old heritge haveli directly on the shores of Lake Pichola. All five bedrooms have views of the Lake Palace, Lake Pichola and bagore ki haveli. All rooms are decorated in traditional Rajasthani style and have attached bath, hot water and a private window seat overlooking Lake Pichola and the washing ghats. edit

• Jaiwana Haveli,14, Lalghat, Udaipur(eastern bank of Lake Pichola),☎0091-294-241-1103,[17].The private residence of the Thakur of Jaiwana converted to luxury hotel accomodates guests in its 24-room and possesses unparalleled views across the sparkling waters and island palaces, to the Aravali Mountains beyond. The roof top restaurant with its panoramic views has become a popular venue for visitors. An excellent choice of Indian, Mewari and continental cuisine is available.INR 1000 - 1800.  edit

• Hotel Broadway,Burman Chambers, UIT Bridge, Saheli Marg, Udaipur(next to UIT circle),☎+91-294-256-0400, 401,[18].The hotel offers spacious 20 air conditioned double bed rooms & six family rooms, all with attached bathrooms and all modern amenities. Most of the rooms give breath taking view of the natural surroundings.INR 1650 - 2650.  edit

[edit]Splurge

• The Lake Palace Hotel,Post Box No. 5, Lake Pichola, Udaipur(on Lake Pichola),☎(91-294) 2428800,[19].The Taj Lake Palace, located in the middle of Lake Pichola is a dream of white marble and mosaic glistening in the moonlight, very reminiscent of the most beautiful tourist cliché in the world; the Taj Mahal. Guests can experience opulent luxury in any of our 83 rooms and suites. A sumptuous buffet dinner is offered along with house wine. Reservations are mandatory, and you've got to iron your shirt.INR 15000 onwards.  edit

• The Oberoi Udaivilas,Hardasji Ki Magri, Udaipur,☎0294-243-3300,[20].The Oberoi Udaivilas showcases the rich heritage of the Mewar region of Rajasthan with its rambling courtyards, gentle rippling fountains, reflecting pools and verdant gardens. Grand architecture inspired by the palaces of Rajasthan present a picture of majesty resplendent with pavilions and domes that lead you to a journey of discovery. An enchanting boat ride across Lake Pichola transports you to the ceremonial welcome that awaits you at resort. Rooms with terraces that open on to semi-private swimming pools present exquisite views and are a unique feature of Udaivilas. Fine international cuisine, authentic flavours of Rajasthan or a quiet drink are all presented with views of the City Palace and Lake Pichola.INR 30,500 - 240,000.  edit

[edit]Stay healthy

There are many clinics and hospitals in Udaipur which provide quality treatment at affordable prices, and health tourism is on the upswing.

[edit]Government Hospitals

• Maharana Bhopal general hospital (Tel: 2-528811-19)
• Women's hospital (Tel: 2-523989)
• T B hospital (tel: 2-560310)
• Ayurvedic hospital, Moti chohtta (Tel: 2-421968)
• Natural hospital, Bhatyani chohtta (Tel: 2-422700)

[edit]Private hospitals

• Goyal hospital, 328-A, Vasant Vihar, Sector-5, Hiran Magri, Udaipur (Tel: 0294-2465764‎)
• J.K. Hospital & Research Centre, Bhupalpura, Udaipur (Tel: 2418544)
• Jagrati Orthopedic Hospital, Hospital Road, Udaipur (Tel: 2529234)
• Sanjeevani Nursing Home, Sevashram Chowraha, Udaipur (Tel: 2412770)
• Shreyas Children & Maternity Hospital, Fatehpura, Udaipur (Tel: 2560861)
• Aravali Hospital, 332 Ambamaata Scheme, Mullatalai, Udaipur (Tel: 2430222, 2431222)

[edit]Blood Bank

• M.B. Govt. Hospital Blood Bank, Udaipur (Ph. No. 0294-2528811)
• Udaipur Americal Internation Hospital, 101, Kothi Bagh, Bhatt Ji Ki Bari, Udaipur (Ph. No. 0294-2426000)
• Udaipur M/s Saral Blood Bank, 30, Bhikharinath ka math, Bhupalpura, Udaipur. (Ph. No. 0294-2416285)

[edit]Fairs and festival

The city of Udaipur celebrates all the fairs and festivals with equal fervor. The important fairs and festivals that are closely associated with Udaipur areMewar Festivaland theShilpgram Fair. If you want to catch the vigor of these desert people, catch them during their famous fairs and festivals.

• Mewar Festival- Mewar festival is observed to welcome the arrival of spring season (March/April). The festival is especially meant for women and offers the best time when they dress in their finest clothes and join the celebrations of the fest. To conduct the ceremony, women assemble to dress the images of Isar (Lord Shiva) and Gangaur (Goddess Parvati). After dressing the idols, they carry them in a traditional procession passing through different parts of the city. In the last, the procession makes its move towards the Gangaur Ghat at Pichola Lake. At this point, the images are transported into special boats and immersed in the deep waters of the lake. When this religious part gets over, people engage into various dances, songs and other cultural events revealing the culture of Rajasthan. Mewar festival is concluded with a glittering show of fireworks.

• Shilpgram Crafts Fair- Shilpgram Mela is held annually in the west of the city of Udaipur in the month of November/ December. The fair is organized to promote art and craft of Rajasthan. This fair is a perfect destination to try out the hand woven clothes, embroideries, mirror works and handicrafts. The hand woven clothes and camel leather items grab the major attention of visitors in this fair.

[edit]Get out

• Ajmer- An ancient town located 288km from Udaipur is famous among the spiritual and religious sects for the shrine of Khwaja Ajmer Sheriff and the only Brahma temples by the banks of Lake Pushkar.
• Bhilwara- The administrative city of Mewar region located 168km from Udaipur. The city contains some of the exquisite neolithic temples that adorn the Nagar style of architecture.
• Bundi- An ancient town loacted 275km from Udaipur inhabitated by local tribesmen famous for its historical fortresses and kunds (holy wells).
• Chittorgarh- About 140 km from Udaipur, Chittorgarh was the capital of Mewar from 734 AD to 1559. Chittorgarh Fort is a massive fort situated on a hilltop near Chittorgarh town in Rajasthan state in India.
• Jodhpur- A popular gateway to the Thar Desert located 269km from Udaipur with the massive Mehrangarh Fort and access to Osiyan desert.
• Kumbhalgarh- A 15th-century fortress, built by Rana Kumbha of Mewar, with 36km of walls. Over 360 temples are within the fort. It also has a wildlife sanctuary. Located in Rajsamand District, 64 km from Udaipur. The vista from the top of the palace typically extends tens of kilometers into the Aravalli hills.
• Mount Abu- A popular tourist hill station located 185km from Udaipur. highest peak on the mountain is Guru Shikhar, at 1722 meters above sea level. Mount Abu is home to a number of Jain temples especially theDilwara Temples.
• Nathdwara- Shri Nathdwara (a pathway to Lord Shri Krishna) lies 48 km from Udaipur and literally means the gateway to the Lord. Devotees throng the shrine in large numbers during occasions of "Janmashtmi", the day of the Lord's birth, and other festivals like Holi. It is famous for its 'pichwai' paintings, with Shri Krishna in the centre and is recognized for profuse use of gold colour.
• Ranakpur- A village that is home to one of the most important Jain temples.[citation needed] 1400+ marble pillars support the temple. Opposite the Jain temple is the much older Sun Temple. Located in Rajsamand District, 110 km north of Udaipur.