Udaipur Diaries- Solo Trip to Venice of the East

Constantly in search of something new, this time my wandering shoes took me to Udaipur- the City of Lakes. I, a solo female backpacker, had three days to explore this historic capital of the former kingdom of Mewar. Fortunately and as expected, I had a great time there. The city is an architectural gem and never ceases to astonish you. The lakes, palaces, tradition, culture and everything else is bound to make you fall in love with it.

“Put yourself in the way of beauty.”, quoted by Cheryl Strayed, always inspires me. I tried to do the same and took an unaccompanied trip to Venice of the East. Read about my 3-days expedition to know what not to miss when in Udaipur.

Day 1

Bunkyard Hostel

Tariff- Rs.400

Despite being a first-timer in hostel, I had a great time there. The staff is friendly, and the food served there is delicious too. You will also get free evening tea. The view from the balcony is fabulous. If you are going with friends or solo, then this is the best place to stay.

My tip- Ask for Wajib there. He is a super cool and helpful staff member, who will also give you complete tour of the hostel.

Photo of Udaipur Diaries- Solo Trip to Venice of the East by Nancy Johri

City Palace

Entry Fee- Rs.300

A palace situated in the ‘City of Lakes’, The City Palace is a major attraction for travelers from all over the world. It was built over a period of around 400 years. Several palaces are built within its complex. It is considered the grandest of its type in whole Rajasthan. Built atop a hill in an amalgamation of Mughal and Rajasthani architectural styles, The palace provides a bird eye view of the city and its surroundings. Overlooking the famous Lake Pichola, many other renowned monuments like Jag Mandir, Lake Palace, Neemach Mata Temple, Jagdish Temple, etc. are all in the vicinity of the palace complex.

Bagore Ki Haveli Museum

Entry Fee- Rs.50 (for museum)

This 18th century haveli is set on the waterfront of Lake Pichola at Gangori Ghat. Carefully restored, there are a total of 138 rooms set around courtyards. The rooms display glass & mirror work, costumes, paintings, puppets, along with intriguingly enough – the world’s biggest turban.

Entry ticket- Rs.60 (For Dharohar)

What you should not miss in Udaipur is Dharohar, a one hour long (7 PM-8PM) Rajasthani folk dance performance. Informative introduction about their culture, beating of drum, blowing of conch shell and a welcome song, all this will set the mood for the evening show for which you will have to wait patiently in the ticket queue for a long time. You will get to experience the most captivating show here that spellbinds its audience by making them a part of it. Beautifully dressed dancers will present different kinds of performances executing their elegance and perfection. Their acts include dancing with ignited brass pots on their heads, playing manjiras tied on their hands and legs, dancing with earthen pots on head, etc. The Rajasthani Puppet show is hugely popular with the kids. The Ghumar dance is among the most admired act of the evening. The performance that steals the show is Bhavai dance in which the graceful dancer dances with numerous earthen pots on her head by maintaining complete balance.

The crowd, having audience from various parts of the world, totally loves the show. You yourself will witness complete sincerity and devotion of the artists to make the extravaganza a big hit.

Warning- DO NOT MISS THIS SHOW AT ANY COST!!!

Lake Pichola

Adjacent to Bagore Ki Haveli is Lake Pichola, which is among the most picturesque lakes of Rajasthan. Located in the heart of the city, it is the oldest and one of the largest lakes of Udaipur. You can sit at the shore and enjoy the beautiful view.

Fateh Sagar Lake

Ticket Price- Rs.100 for motor boat (Prices vary for different boats)

This lake is the second artificial lake of Udaipur, and also smaller as compared to Lake Pichola. You can enjoy boat ride here and visit the Nehru Park, which is situated in the middle of the lake. It is a wonderful place to view the sunset.

Day 2

Zostel Udaipur

Tariff- Rs.600

This hostel will definitely give you complete worth for your money. Lip smacking food, comfortable stay, friendly atmosphere- you will get everything and that too at pocket-friendly rates. The rooftop café will give you amazing view of the Swaroop Sagar Lake while you enjoy your favorite food and drink.

Vintage & Classic Car Collection Museum

Entry Fee- Rs.300

This museum is a must see for car lovers. It houses 22 fabulous vehicles. You can see a seven-seat 1938 Cadillac, the splendid 1934 Rolls-Royce Phantom used in the Bond film Octopussy, the Cadillac convertible that carried Queen Elizabeth II to the airport in 1961, and a lot more. Some of these antique marvels are over 70 years old, but no doubt every timeless beauty has been restored with great care.

Sahelion Ki Bari

Entry Fee- Rs.10

Located on the banks of Fateh Sagar Lake, this is among the most beautiful gardens and a popular tourist destination in Udaipur. It is famous for its lush green lawns, marble art and fountains. Blossoming lawns, flowerbeds, and marble pavilions add to the majestic ambience of this magnificent garden.

Day 3

Monsoon Palace

Entry ticket- Rs.60

Also known as the Sajjan Garh Palace, this is a hilltop palatial residence overlooking the Fateh Sagar Lake. Try to go there before sunset so that you can enjoy the incredible view until the sun goes down. The surrounding hills accentuate the charm of the place.