Travel Guide
Udaipur travel guide
Udaipur, the City of Lakes, is Rajasthan's most romantic destination. Shimmering Lake Pichola reflects magnificent palaces, while the floating Lake Palace hotel epitomizes Indian luxury. Sunset boat rides and rooftop dinners create unforgettable memories.
Language
Hindi, Mewari
Currency
Indian Rupee (INR)
Timezone
IST (GMT+5:30)
Best time
September to March (avoid scorching summer)
Budget/day
$25-60
When to visit
Jan
8-24°C
Feb
11-27°C
Mar
16-33°C
Apr
22-38°C
May
27-42°C
Jun
28-40°C
Jul
26-34°C
Aug
25-32°C
Sep
24-33°C
Oct
20-34°C
Nov
14-30°C
Dec
9-26°C
Safety
Low RiskUdaipur is one of India's safest cities. Relaxed atmosphere. Some commission touts but gentle by Indian standards.
Women travellers
Romantic city, generally safe. Boat rides are regulated. Use official guides.
Culture & etiquette
- + The Mewar royal family still lives in part of the City Palace
- + Miniature painting is a famous Udaipur art form
- + Lake Palace was a Bond villain's lair (Octopussy)
- + Evening cultural shows at Bagore ki Haveli are excellent
- - Don't pay entry fees to private rooftops claiming to be "museum viewpoints"
- - Don't skip drinking water caution — stomach issues are common with raw salads near lake
- - Don't touch anyone's head
- - Don't point feet at people or religious objects
Food to try
Dal bati churma
Rajasthan's iconic desert meal—hard wheat rolls (bati) baked over camel dung fire, dunked in a five-lentil dal, eaten with churma (crushed wheat with ghee and jaggery); the full meal is served at Rajasthani thali restaurants throughout the state
Lake view dinner
Fine dining beside the lakes of Udaipur or Naini Tal—restaurants like Lake Pichola Hotel and Fateh Prakash Palace serve Rajasthani and Continental cuisine with views of illuminated water palaces at dusk; the setting elevates even simple food to a memorable experience
Rajasthani thali
The most spectacular meal in Indian vegetarian cooking—multiple small bowls of dal, curry, rice, roti, papad, pickles, buttermilk and sweets on a large metal platter; Rajasthani thali restaurants refill every bowl indefinitely; the experience is overwhelming
Mawa kachori
Rajasthan's festive sweet kachori—deep-fried pastry shells stuffed with mawa (reduced milk solid), dry fruits and sugar syrup; Jodhpur's specialty sweet eaten at celebrations; the contrast of crispy exterior and sweet dense filling is extraordinary
Hidden gems
Details are indicative and may change. Verify visa, safety, and entry requirements before travel.