Nicknamed the “City of Lakes”, Udaipur is one of Rajasthan’s most enchanting destinations. With its shimmering lakes, majestic palaces, romantic sunsets, and colorful bazaars, Udaipur offers a magical experience. Even if you have just a weekend, a well-planned itinerary ensures you capture the essence of this royal city.
Day 1: Palaces, Lakes, and Sunset Views
Morning: City Palace & Crystal Gallery
Start your Udaipur trip with a visit to the magnificent City Palace, perched on the eastern bank of Lake Pichola. This palace is a massive complex of courtyards, pavilions, and towers that showcase stunning Rajput architecture.
- Highlights include:
- Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard)
- Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace)
- Zenana Mahal
- Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard)
- Visit the Crystal Gallery inside the Fateh Prakash Palace to see rare crystal furniture and artifacts ordered by Maharana Sajjan Singh in the 1870s.
✅ Travel Tip: Reach early to avoid crowds and get the best morning light for photography.
Afternoon: Jagdish Temple & Boat Ride on Lake Pichola
Walk a short distance from the City Palace to visit the Jagdish Temple, a beautifully carved 17th-century temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
In the afternoon, enjoy a boat ride on Lake Pichola. This is a highlight of any Udaipur visit and offers stunning views of:
- Jag Mandir
- Lake Palace (Taj Hotel)
- City Palace from the water
📷 Must-Do: Take the sunset boat ride for golden reflections over the lake.
Evening: Sunset at Sajjangarh (Monsoon Palace)
Head up to Sajjangarh Palace, also known as the Monsoon Palace, situated on a hilltop. It offers panoramic views of Udaipur, the lakes, and the surrounding Aravalli hills.
🌄 Sunset Point: It’s one of the best places to catch a dramatic sunset in the city.
Day 2: Gardens, Local Culture, and Shopping
Morning: Saheliyon Ki Bari & Vintage Car Museum
Start your second day at the elegant Saheliyon Ki Bari or “Garden of the Maidens”. This beautifully landscaped garden features:
- Marble fountains
- Lotus pools
- Pavilions and lush greenery
Next, visit the Vintage Car Museum, home to an impressive collection of royal vehicles including Rolls-Royces, Cadillacs, and other classic models once used by the Maharanas.
🚘 Fun Fact: The 1934 Rolls-Royce Phantom from the James Bond film Octopussy is on display here.
Afternoon: Traditional Rajasthani Lunch & Bagore Ki Haveli
Head to a local restaurant such as Traditional Khana, Natraj Dining Hall, or 1559 AD to enjoy authentic Rajasthani cuisine. Don’t miss dishes like:
- Dal Baati Churma
- Gatte ki Sabzi
- Ker Sangri
Post-lunch, explore Bagore Ki Haveli, an 18th-century mansion located by Gangaur Ghat. The haveli has more than 100 rooms showcasing costumes, artifacts, and royal items.
Evening: Cultural Show at Bagore Ki Haveli
Stay back at Bagore Ki Haveli for the Dharohar Dance Show held in the evening (usually starts around 7 PM). It includes:
- Folk dances from Rajasthan
- Puppet shows
- Traditional music performances
🎭 Cultural Highlight: The show is family-friendly and offers an authentic taste of local heritage.
Quick Tips for a Perfect Weekend
- ☀️ Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather
- 🛶 Boat Ride Tip: Book your Lake Pichola boat ride at the City Palace dock to include Jag Mandir stop
- 🧳 What to Pack: Light clothes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable footwear
- 📱 Connectivity: Good network coverage and most attractions offer audio guides
Conclusion
Udaipur is a city that breathes romance, royalty, and tranquility. With just 48 hours, you can immerse yourself in its timeless beauty, from its lakes and palaces to its vibrant cultural performances and cuisine. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or a casual traveler, Udaipur promises memories that linger long after your weekend is over.
