Are you a Ranbir Kapoor fan or Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (YJHD)? Or, even a movie buff?
Nay? Anyway, did you see this movie ever and how Bunny makes Naina run around the city and in just those fractions of seconds, you get to see the best of this city, UDAIPUR? That's how my love for travel is and this city of lakes was on my #bucketlist forever.
PS - the shots were just taken at Lake Pichola, Bagore ki Haveli, and City Palace.
So, finally! Last year, just for a day I got the chance to be in the city and dint want to miss the train. After attending a friend's wedding in Noida, we took an early morning 7 AM flight to Udaipur from Delhi. Reached around 9 AM and now took a cab to our Hotel or rather Hostel. Yes! for once, we decided to try the hostel but the luxury kicked in and we booked the most expensive stand-alone room.
Zostel is built strategically, overlooking the lake (not like Taj but still you get to see a glimpse of it). And, you've to drag your own luggage as the pavement is quite narrow to reach the hostel and even, they don't have a lift (glad we stayed on ground 0).
After settling in, we decided to eat at their restra, which was roof-top and on the 4th floor. Boy! what a view to die for and direct absorption of Vitamin D.
We're in love with the city already and then decided to rent a bike to see the city around. Started with City Palace, and couldn't believe our eyes on how beautifully it's made with several sections in it.
After spending a decent time there, we went to Jheel Cafe near Gangaur Ghat and couldn't be happier! The view, food, music and everything were so beautiful about the cafe that we fell in love with this little quaint place too.
After having a long day, we decided to go to another part of the city near Fatehsagar Lake and spent some decent time roaming here and there. And, trust me this place is more quiet and beautiful.
After spending a decent time here, we moved to see the sunset on the Gangaur Ghat. Such a beautiful place to see people spending some quiet evening time. There was some pre-wedding shoot at a golden hour that was also going on it seems and why not!
We further had to chase for our booking for a live show, Darohar Folk Dance happening at Bagore ki Haveli. You get to see the best of Rajasthan folk dance and culture and would be awe-dropped for 1 hr time that you committed to seeing the event.
Dinner time? we went to Ambrai Ghat and looked for a table at Ambrai Amet Hotel but they were full so ended up going to Cafe Grasswood Lakeview. It's a decent one but wasn't that lit as expected. A handful of people were dining so even they were hardly uplifted.
Waking up seeing the beautiful lake was such a blessing and was thankful for being able to make it to this city. Had a half-day in hand so decided to go slow and explore few places.
Started with Jagdish temple and were overjoyed with the vibe of the place. Now what to do next?
Maybe a boat ride? We actually missed the boat ride or should say, we weren't aware that there's a beautiful boat ride that starts from City Palace and hence the miss. Anyway, best decision ever.
After bargaining it and having the whole boat to ourselves was such a treat. Most calming feeling ever and what a visual treat! The boat takes you around the city and you get to see Taj, City Palace, Gangaur Ghat, Leela and other known places very close by.
For lunch, no place to go but Jheel again. Went to their roof-top restra and had lunch.
We further had a train to catch in the afternoon for Ajmer (my place). So, time to go now but are we ready? Maybe never? I always feel I resemble the Ranbir Kapoor of #YJHD who has to chase so many places in so little time one has.
Quick Facts -
Udaipur - Formerly known as the capital of Mewar Kingdom is truly magnificent. It is set done around the 7 artificial lakes, 2 of the popular ones are Lake Pichola and Lake Fatehsagar. Udaipur carries a lot of history and is famous for several tourist places.
How to Reach - Udaipur is well connected by air, rail, & road.
How to commute within the city - You have cabs (Ola & Uber) and also can hire a bike/scooter (guess Rs 400-500 for a day) to roam within.
Best time to visit - Nov - March
Places to See/ Things to do - City Palace, Jagdish Temple, Sunset boat ride in Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake, Bagore ki Haveli, Shilpgram, Jagmandir, Gulab Bagh, Monsoon Palace, Saheliyon ki Bari and many others