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Things to Do in Udaipur: 2-Day Itinerary & Hidden Gems
Udaipur, the City of Lakes, the Venice of the East, the most romantic city in Rajasthan. No matter what you call it, one thing is certain: Udaipur has a way of stopping you in your tracks. Surrounded by the ancient Aravalli Hills and built around a constellation of shimmering lakes, this city feels less like a tourist destination and more like a living fairytale.
Whether you are planning a quick weekend escape, a romantic honeymoon, or just looking for the best things to do in Udaipur before heading deeper into Rajasthan, this guide has you covered. We have mapped out a detailed 2-day itinerary, pulled out the hidden places most travelers miss, and included everything couples need to make their time here truly unforgettable.
Why Udaipur Should Be on Every Traveler’s List
Founded in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II of the Mewar Dynasty, Udaipur was built around Lake Pichola with the Aravalli Range acting as a natural fortress. Over the centuries, it grew into one of the most culturally rich and visually stunning cities in India. The city is home to five major lakes: Udaisagar, Fatehsagar, Pichola, Jaisamand, and Swaroop Sagar, each adding to its scenic grandeur.
What makes Udaipur special is that it caters to every kind of traveler. History lovers find themselves lost in its palaces and temples. Couples discover one of India’s most romantic backdrops. And explorers who go beyond the usual circuit uncover offbeat things to do in Udaipur that most tourists never find.
Day 1: The Royal Heart of Udaipur
Morning — City Palace (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
Start your first day at the City Palace, the crown jewel of Udaipur and one of the best things to do in Udaipur for history lovers. Built over nearly four centuries, it is the largest palace in Rajasthan and sits on the shores of Lake Pichola. Made entirely from granite and marble, the palace complex encompasses grand terraces, courtyards, gardens, and several intricately decorated rooms.
Afternoon — Rooftop Lunch + Lake Pichola Boat Ride (1:00 – 3:30 PM)
Udaipur’s rooftop café culture is legendary (more on the best rooftop cafes below). For a great lunch near the old city, try Jheel’s Ginger Coffee Bar & Bakery at Gangaur Ghat — their Paneer Tikka Sandwich is a local favorite. It offers sunset rooftop seating, coffee, snacks, and lake-touch seating for ₹700–₹1,200 for two.
Evening — Bagore Ki Haveli & Folk Performance (4:00 – 7:00 PM)
Starting at 7 PM, the Bagore Ki Haveli hosts a captivating folk dance performance in an authentic haveli setting, where visitors watch colorful performances by local artists in traditional attire. This is an experience that genuinely separates Udaipur from other cities, raw, energetic, and deeply rooted in Rajasthani culture. It is easily one of the best things to do in Udaipur for a true cultural immersion.
Day 2: Hidden Gems & Offbeat Udaipur
Early Morning — Badi Lake & Bahubali Hills (7:00 – 10:00 AM)
This is where your things to do in Udaipur in 2 days experience gets truly special. Most tourists sleep in and head to the usual spots. You, however, are going to Badi Lake one of the best hidden places to visit in Udaipur that few travelers ever discover.
Badi Lake is around a 30-minute drive from the city, and in a city known for its lakes, it is by far the most picturesque. The surrounding scenery is breathtaking, and it is far more peaceful than the lakes in the city itself. As you climb the gentle slopes of Bahubali Hill, you are greeted by a breathtaking view of the surrounding lakes, casting a mirror-like reflection of the sky. The tranquility makes it a photographer’s paradise and a tranquil retreat from the city’s hustle.
Afternoon — Shilpgram & Hathi Pol Bazaar (12:00 – 3:30 PM)
Shilpgram, a rural arts and crafts complex located just 3 km from Fateh Sagar Lake, is a living museum of Rajasthani and tribal culture. You can watch artisans weave, paint, and craft in real time, and pick up genuinely handmade souvenirs rather than mass-produced imitations. This is one of the best things to do in Udaipur if you want to understand the city’s artistic soul.
Evening — Dudh Talai Musical Garden & Dinner (7:00 – 9:00 PM)
End your 2-day itinerary at the Dudh Talai Musical Garden, a beautiful lakeside rock garden with a musical fountain show in the evenings. With its melodious water fountain shows and views of Lake Pichola and the City Palace, this garden serves up a romantic performance — lively yet intimate.
Best Things to Do in Udaipur for Couples & Honeymoon Places
Udaipur is consistently ranked among the best honeymoon places in India and for good reason. The city was described as “the most romantic spot on the continent of India” by British administrator James Tod. Here is a curated list of the most romantic things to do in Udaipur for couples:
Sunset Boat Ride on Lake Pichola — Book a private boat from the City Palace jetty just before sunset. The sight of the Lake Palace floating in golden water is one of those rare travel moments that lives in memory forever. This is the single most iconic thing to do in Udaipur for couples.
Dinner at Ambrai Ghat — As dusk settles, the reflections of the illuminated palace ripple across the lake, making this one of Udaipur’s most atmospheric dining spots. Perfect for anniversaries, honeymoons, and quiet romantic evenings.
Saheliyon Ki Bari — Built by Maharana Sangram Singh for the women of the royal household, this garden is decorated with lotus pools, marble fountains, and flowering trees. Mornings are cooler, quieter, and offer perfect soft light for photographs. One of the most serene romantic things to do in Udaipur.
Fateh Sagar Lake Promenade — With fewer tourists and more serenity, Fateh Sagar is the perfect place for couples looking for downtime. Take a boat to Nehru Garden, stroll along the lakefront, or simply sit watching the water reflect the city lights.
Hidden Places to Visit in Udaipur (Beyond the Tourist Trail)
If you want to go truly offbeat, here are the hidden places in Udaipur that most travelers never find:
Alsigarh — A less-frequented locality on the outskirts of the city. The area around Alsigarh is ideal for birdwatching and leisurely walks, making it a perfect nature escape for those who want to avoid the crowds. One of the most peaceful hidden places to visit in Udaipur.
Karni Mata Temple (via Ropeway) — Accessible by a fun ropeway ride, this hilltop temple offers spectacular views of Udaipur’s landscape. It is one of the most underrated and offbeat things to do in Udaipur, especially beautiful at sunset.
Bharatiya Lok Kala Mandal Museum — This museum displays masks, pots, paintings, and wall art, but the real highlight is the puppet show at 6 PM, a true Rajasthani cultural gem that most tourists completely miss. Absolutely one of the most memorable offbeat things to do in Udaipur.
Eklingji & Sahasra Bahu Temples (Day Trip) — Located about 22 km from Udaipur, Eklingji is an ancient temple dedicated to Mewar’s ruling deity, while Sahasra Bahu Temple is renowned for its exquisite carvings, pillars, and architecture. The round trip takes about 3 hours and is deeply rewarding.
Best Time to Visit Udaipur
October to March is the ideal time to visit Udaipur, with pleasant weather that is perfect for sightseeing. The summer months can get quite warm, so most travelers prefer to avoid them. If you are visiting during monsoon (July to September), the city turns dramatically lush and beautiful, the lakes fill up and the Aravallis turn green, though some outdoor activities may be limited.
Best Rooftop Cafes & Restaurants in Udaipur
Udaipur’s rooftop dining scene is as iconic as its palaces. Here are the best spots where views, food, and ambiance come together perfectly:
Ambrai Restaurant — Perched on the banks of Lake Pichola, Ambrai offers the best view of the City Palace, Jag Mandir, and Lake Palace. There is a combination of Rajasthani, Indian, and Continental dishes like Laal Maas and Butter Chicken. Best visited in the evening when the palaces light up. Perfect for romantic things to do in Udaipur.
Café Upre — Best for romantic dinner, luxury dining, and sunset views. Located near Lake Pichola Road, it serves Indian, Continental, and Rajasthani cuisine with candlelight dinner arrangements and lake-view seating. Price range: ₹1,500–₹2,000 for two.
Jheel’s Ginger Coffee Bar & Bakery — A budget-friendly favorite at Gangaur Ghat with excellent lake views. Ideal for breakfast or a light lunch. Their Paneer Tikka Sandwich is legendary among travelers.
Savage Garden — A bohemian-chic café known for handcrafted cocktails and global cuisine. The sprawling view of Jagdish Temple and the cityscape adds to its undeniable charm. One of the most popular things to do in Udaipur for couples in the evening.
Local Food Guide — What to Eat in Udaipur
No trip to Udaipur is complete without digging into its food culture. Here are the must-try dishes and where to find them:
Dal Baati Churma — The undisputed king of Rajasthani cuisine. Crispy wheat balls (baati) served with lentil dal and sweet churma. Try it at Natraj Dining Hall for the most authentic unlimited thali experience.
Laal Maas — A fiery Rajasthani meat curry made with Mathania chillies and yogurt. Available at Ambrai Restaurant and Rainbow Restaurant.
Gatte ki Sabzi — Gram flour dumplings cooked in a spiced yogurt gravy. A local comfort food available at most traditional restaurants.
Malai Ghewar — A disc-shaped sweet soaked in sugar syrup and topped with malai (cream). The festive sweet of Rajasthan, especially popular during Teej and Gangaur. Available at sweet shops near the Clock Tower.
Khandvi & Dhokla — Udaipur’s proximity to Gujarat means Gujarati snacks are widely available. Head to Natraj Dining Hall for an unlimited Rajasthani-Gujarati thali that covers both worlds.
Lassi — Udaipur’s thick, creamy lassi is in a class of its own. Try it plain or with saffron at the small stalls near Jagdish Temple and Hathi Pol Bazaar.
Shopping Guide — What to Buy in Udaipur
Udaipur is among the top shopping hubs in Rajasthan. Here’s what to buy and where to find it:
Hathi Pol Bazaar — The main shopping street for traditional Rajasthani items: juttis (leather footwear), bandhani dupattas, miniature paintings, tribal jewellery, and handicrafts. Shop in the daytime for better prices and a less crowded experience.
Bada Bazaar & Clock Tower Area — Perfect for silver jewellery, lac bangles, traditional Rajasthani fabrics, and local spices.
Shilpgram Crafts Fair — If you want directly handmade, authentic craft pieces from artisans across Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Goa, this is the place. No mass production, all genuine.
What to Buy:
Miniature Mewar-style paintings on marble and silk, Hand-block printed fabrics, Silver jewellery and lac bangles, Puppets (kathputlis), Blue pottery items, Bandhani (tie-dye) scarves, dupattas, and sarees, Leather juttis and mojris.
Bargaining Tips: Bargaining is expected and accepted at all street markets. Start at 50–60% of the quoted price and work from there. Fixed-price shops at Shilpgram and government emporiums are good reference points for fair pricing.
Pro Tips for Photographers in Udaipur
Udaipur is one of India’s most photogenic cities, and with a little planning, every shot can be extraordinary:
Best Locations: The view from Ambrai Ghat at night (with the City Palace lit up), the terrace of Bagore Ki Haveli at dusk, the Monsoon Palace at sunset, and the early-morning mist over Badi Lake are the four must-shoot spots in the city.
Golden Hour: Udaipur’s golden hour, roughly 30 minutes before sunset, transforms the entire city into warm amber. Position yourself on the Lake Pichola boat or at the Bahubali Hill for the best light.
Best for Symmetry: The inner courtyards of the City Palace and Jagdish Temple’s carved facade offer incredible symmetrical compositions. Arrive early to shoot without crowds.
Blue Hour After Sunset: Stay out after dark. The blue hour over Lake Pichola with the lit-up palaces reflecting in the water is one of the most dramatic night photography scenes in all of India.
People & Street Photography: The narrow lanes around Jagdish Temple, Gangaur Ghat, and Hathi Pol Bazaar come alive with color, texture, and life. Early mornings and evenings are best. Always ask for permission before photographing people.
Gear Tip: Carry a wide-angle lens for palace interiors and panoramic lake views, and a 50mm or 85mm for street portraits and detail shots of carvings.
Practical Travel Tips for Udaipur
Getting Around: Auto-rickshaws and app-based cabs are the easiest way to navigate the city. For day trips to Badi Lake, Sajjangarh, or Eklingji, hire a private cab or negotiate with a local rickshaw driver.
Where to Stay: For lakefront convenience, book accommodations near Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar, or the old city around Gangaur Ghat. Honeymooning couples often stay at the Taj Lake Palace or one of Udaipur’s heritage havelis.
What to Eat: Dal Baati Churma, Gatte ki Sabji, Malai Ghewar, and a full Rajasthani thali are non-negotiables. Natraj Dining Hall near the Ahar area is famous for its authentic, unlimited Rajasthani-Gujarati thali.
Best Time of Day: Mornings are best for palaces and temples before the crowds arrive. Evenings are magical at the ghats and on the lake. Always plan sunset at Sajjangarh or on Lake Pichola.
Entry Fees at a Glance:
- City Palace Museum: ₹400 (adults)
- Monsoon Palace: ₹120 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)
- Lake Pichola Boat Ride: ₹400 – ₹700 depending on route
- Saheliyon Ki Bari: ₹30
- Ahar Cenotaphs: Free
- Bagore Ki Haveli Folk Show: ₹60 – ₹90
Final Thoughts
Udaipur is one of those rare cities that live up to every expectation and then quietly exceeds them. The best things to do in Udaipur are not always the most famous ones. Sometimes it is a quiet morning at Badi Lake before the city wakes up. Sometimes it is stumbling upon the cenotaphs and having the whole place to yourself. Sometimes it is watching the City Palace light up in the water while you share a plate of Dal Baati at a ghat-side restaurant. Whatever brings you to Udaipur, romance, history, photography, or pure wanderlust, this city will give you something genuinely worth holding onto.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How many days are enough to see Udaipur?
2 days are enough for major attractions. Stay 3–4 days to explore offbeat places.
Q2. Is Udaipur good for couples and honeymooners?
Yes, it’s one of India’s top romantic destinations with lakes, palaces, and sunset views.
Q3. What are the best offbeat things to do in Udaipur?
Visit Badi Lake, Bahubali Hills, Ahar Cenotaphs, and nearby temples for unique experiences.
Q4. What is the best time to visit Udaipur?
October to March is ideal. The monsoon is scenic but may limit outdoor plans.
Q5. What are the must-visit places in Udaipur in 2 days?
City Palace, Lake Pichola, Jagdish Temple, Monsoon Palace, and Fateh Sagar Lake.