If you're planning a trip to Udaipur, India, you're in for a treat! This charming city, also known as the "Venice of the East," is famous for its beautiful lakes, magnificent palaces, and rich history. With three days in Udaipur, you can explore some of the city's most iconic sights and experience its unique culture.
How to Reach Udaipur:
Udaipur is well-connected to major cities in India and can be easily reached by air, train, and road.
AIR: The city has its own airport, Maharana Pratap Airport, which is located about 22 km from the city center. Several airlines operate regular flights to Udaipur from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Bangalore.
TRAIN: If you prefer to travel by train, Udaipur Railway Station is located in the heart of the city and is well-connected to major cities in India.
ROADS: You can also reach Udaipur by road as it is well-connected to major cities in Rajasthan and neighboring states by a network of state highways and national highways. Several private and state-run buses also operate regular services to Udaipur from cities like Jaipur, Ahmedabad, and Delhi.
Day 1: Fateh Sagar Lake, Karni Mata Temple, and City Palace
On the first day of your Udaipur itinerary, start your day by visiting Fateh Sagar Lake. This picturesque lake is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Udaipur, and for good reason. Surrounded by hills and dotted with small islands, the lake offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can take a boat ride on the lake to explore its scenic beauty and visit the Nehru Park, which is situated on one of the islands.
Next, head to Karni Mata Temple, which is located on a hilltop near the lake. The temple is dedicated to Karni Mata, a revered saint and mystic who is believed to have lived in the 14th century. The temple is known for its white marble architecture and offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding hills. You can reach the temple by taking a ropeway or climbing the stairs, which can be quite challenging, but the stunning views make it worth the effort.
Finally, visit the City Palace, which is one of the most magnificent palaces in Rajasthan. The palace was built by the Maharana Udai Singh II in the 16th century and has been expanded and renovated by successive rulers over the centuries. The palace complex includes several museums and galleries that showcase the history and culture of the Mewar dynasty. You can explore the palace's stunning courtyards, gardens, and galleries, which house an impressive collection of paintings, weapons, and artifacts.
Day 2: Chittorgarh Fort and Jagmandir Palace
On the second day of your Udaipur itinerary, take a day trip to Chittorgarh Fort, which is located about 120 km from Udaipur. The fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its rich history and impressive architecture. The fort was the capital of Mewar for several centuries and has been the site of many battles and sieges.
Once you reach Chittorgarh, you can explore the massive fortifications, temples, and palaces within the fort. Some of the must-see attractions include the Vijay Stambh (Victory Tower), Kirti Stambh (Tower of Fame), Rana Kumbha Palace, and the Padmini Palace. You can also visit the Meera Temple, which is dedicated to the legendary poet-saint Meera Bai.
In the evening, return to Udaipur and take a boat ride to Jagmandir Palace, which is located in the middle of Lake Pichola. The palace was built by Maharana Karan Singh in the 17th century and was used as a summer resort by the royal family. You can admire the palace's intricate architecture and enjoy the stunning views of the lake and the surrounding hills.
Day 3: Bahubali Hills, Ghats, and Hathi Pol Bazaar
On the final day of your Udaipur itinerary, wake up early and head to Bahubali Hills to watch the sunrise over the city. The hills offer stunning panoramic views of Udaipur and are also home to the towering Bahubali statue, which is a symbol of Jainism. You can also visit the Jain temples and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
After the sunrise, explore some of the city's famous ghats, such as Gangaur Ghat and Ambrai Ghat. These ghats are located on the banks of Lake Pichola and offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding palaces and temples. You can take a leisurely stroll along the ghats and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city.
Finally, head to Hathi Pol Bazaar, which is one of the oldest markets in Udaipur. The market is known for its colorful textiles, handicrafts, jewelry, and spices. You can shop for souvenirs and gifts and try some of the delicious street food that is sold in the market.
Overall, Udaipur is a magical city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With three days in Udaipur, you can explore some of the city's most iconic sights and experience its vibrant culture. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Udaipur!