Exploring the Top Tourist Places to Visit in Udaipur: Palaces, Lakes, and More

Udaipur, often called the City of Lakes, is one of Rajasthan’s most romantic and regal destinations. Nestled amidst the Aravalli hills, this city is adorned with grand palaces, serene lakes, colourful bazaars, and vibrant cultural life. For travellers seeking a blend of heritage, nature, and local experiences, here are the top tourist places to visit in Udaipur that you must include in your itinerary.

1. City Palace

The City Palace is Udaipur’s crown jewel and undoubtedly among the top tourist places to visit in Udaipur. Overlooking Lake Pichola, this grand complex is an architectural marvel with intricately designed balconies, towers, and domes. Its museums showcase royal costumes, vintage weapons, and artefacts, giving visitors a glimpse into Mewar’s regal past.

Highlights:

• Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace)
  
• Crystal Gallery with rare crystal artefacts
  
• Panoramic views of Lake Pichola and the city from palace terraces
  

2. Lake Pichola

Created in 1362 AD, Lake Pichola is the heart of Udaipur’s scenic beauty. Surrounded by ghats, palaces, and temples, the lake is best explored through a boat ride, especially at sunset when the waters reflect the orange hues of the sky and the glowing palaces.

Highlights:

• Boat rides to Jag Mandir and Jag Niwas
  
• Stunning sunset views
  
• Views of City Palace and Arsi Vilas island
  

3. Jag Mandir

Located on an island in Lake Pichola, Jag Mandir is a beautiful palace known as the ‘Lake Garden Palace’. Built in the 17th century, it features impressive marble structures, domes, courtyards, and a row of elephant statues at the entrance, making it one of the top tourist places to visit in Udaipur.

Highlights:

• Marble carvings and grand architecture
  
• Peaceful gardens overlooking the lake
  
• Historical significance as Prince Khurram’s (Shah Jahan) refuge
  

4. Jagdish Temple

Just outside the City Palace, Jagdish Temple is a major Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Built in 1651, it is known for its Indo-Aryan architecture, intricate stone carvings of dancers and deities, and the huge stone elephant statues flanking its entrance steps.

Highlights:

• Three-storey structure with richly carved pillars
  
• Spiritual atmosphere with daily aartis
  
• Detailed sculptures depicting mythological stories
  

5. Fateh Sagar Lake

Another gem among the top tourist places to visit in Udaipur, Fateh Sagar Lake is an artificial lake built by Maharana Fateh Singh in the 1880s. It is surrounded by hills and has three islands, including Nehru Park with a boat-shaped café and a small zoo.

Highlights:

• Boat rides and speed boating
  
• Scenic drives along Moti Magri Road
  
• Views of the lake with Aravalli hills as backdrop
  

6. Sajjangarh Palace (Monsoon Palace)

Perched on Bansdara Hill, Sajjangarh Palace was built by Maharana Sajjan Singh to observe monsoon clouds. This white marble palace offers panoramic views of Udaipur city, its lakes, and the distant Aravalli range, making it an ideal sunset point.

Highlights:

• Breathtaking sunset views
  
• Panoramic photography spot
  
• Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary located nearby
  

7. Saheliyon Ki Bari

Known as the ‘Garden of Maidens’, Saheliyon Ki Bari is a beautiful garden built for the royal ladies. It features marble fountains, lotus pools, kiosks, and lush green lawns, offering a peaceful escape amidst the city’s royal grandeur.

Highlights:

• Lotus pond with marble elephants
  
• Fountains operated by natural water pressure
  
• Ideal for relaxing walks and photography
  

8. Bagore Ki Haveli

Bagore Ki Haveli, built in the 18th century, is located at Gangaur Ghat. Now a museum, it displays royal costumes, weapons, artefacts, and traditional Rajasthani puppets. The Dharohar Dance Show held here every evening showcases the vibrant folk culture of Rajasthan.

Highlights:

• Dharohar cultural dance performances
  
• Over 100 rooms with historical artefacts
  
• Scenic views of Lake Pichola from its terrace
  

9. Shilpgram

Located 3 km west of Udaipur, Shilpgram is a rural arts and crafts complex showcasing traditional huts, craft demonstrations, and cultural performances. The annual Shilpgram Festival in December attracts artisans and performers from across India.

Highlights:

• Handicraft shopping and live artisan demonstrations
  
• Cultural dance and music performances
  
• Rural village atmosphere with ethnic displays
  

10. Lake Palace (Taj Lake Palace)

The iconic Taj Lake Palace, built on Jag Niwas Island in Lake Pichola, is one of the world’s most luxurious heritage hotels. Built in 1746, its white marble structure appears to float on the lake. Though it operates as a hotel, its beauty can be admired through boat rides around Lake Pichola.

Highlights:

• Stunning architecture appearing to float on water
  
• Night view with palace lights reflecting in the lake
  
• Featured in many Bollywood and Hollywood films
  

Final Thoughts

These top tourist places to visit in Udaipur offer travellers a glimpse into Rajasthan’s royal heritage, architectural brilliance, and natural beauty. Whether you wish to stroll through regal palaces, sail across serene lakes, or immerse yourself in colourful markets and cultural performances, Udaipur promises an experience like no other. Plan your itinerary to explore these magnificent sites and indulge in the