When I first arrived in Udaipur, the “City of Lakes,” I was overwhelmed by its beauty and rich cultural heritage. The city’s enchanting palaces, vibrant markets, and scenic lakes make it a perfect destination for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers. Armed with a plan to make the most of my two days, I set off to explore Udaipur’s best spots, indulging in its culinary delights and picturesque views. Here’s how I spent 48 hours exploring and eating my way through this magical city.
Day 1: Morning – A Peaceful Start at Fateh Sagar Lake
I began my Udaipur adventure with a serene morning walk along Fateh Sagar Lake, one of the most peaceful spots in the city. The crisp morning air, paired with the soft hues of the sunrise, set the tone for the day. With a coffee in hand, I spent time admiring the lake’s calm waters, punctuated by the views of Aravalli Hills in the distance.
To save time and make the most of my day, I opted for a Taxi service in Udaipur, which allowed me to navigate the city with ease. This service was prompt and reliable, helping me cover more spots without the hassle of figuring out routes. My first stop was Saheliyon Ki Bari, a beautiful garden built for royal ladies. The lush greenery, fountains, and marble pavilions provided a tranquil escape from the city’s bustle.
Breakfast at a Local Café
Next, I headed to a nearby café for breakfast. The café, tucked away in a quiet corner, offered a fusion of traditional Rajasthani and continental dishes. I opted for a classic masala chai paired with a plate of poha, a simple yet flavorful dish made of flattened rice, perfect for fueling up for the day ahead.
Day 1: Midday – Exploring Udaipur’s Historic Gems
After breakfast, I set my sights on City Palace, one of Udaipur’s most iconic landmarks. This majestic palace, perched on the banks of Lake Pichola, offers panoramic views of the city. As I wandered through its grand courtyards, intricate balconies, and detailed paintings, I couldn’t help but admire the fine craftsmanship and history embedded in every corner.
The City Palace Museum is a treasure trove of artifacts, including royal costumes, paintings, and weapons, offering a glimpse into Udaipur’s royal past. I highly recommend taking a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and stories behind each exhibit.
Lunch at a Rooftop Restaurant
For lunch, I made my way to a rooftop restaurant with an unbeatable view of Lake Pichola and the surrounding palaces. The highlight of the meal was the traditional Rajasthani thali, which featured dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and laal maas. Each dish was rich in flavor and perfectly balanced with spices, showcasing the essence of Rajasthani cuisine.
Day 1: Afternoon – Sunset Cruise on Lake Pichola
In the late afternoon, I took a boat ride on Lake Pichola, which is a must-do when visiting Udaipur. The boat ride offered stunning views of Jag Mandir and Lake Palace, two architectural marvels that seem to float on the water. The gentle waves of the lake, combined with the golden glow of the setting sun, created an ethereal experience. I highly recommend taking this sunset cruise for a picture-perfect moment in Udaipur.
Evening at Jagdish Temple
As the day drew to a close, I visited Jagdish Temple, a magnificent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple’s intricate carvings and towering architecture are a sight to behold. I arrived just in time for the evening aarti (prayer ceremony), which was a spiritually enriching experience, with the rhythmic chants and the warm glow of oil lamps creating an atmosphere of devotion and peace.
Day 2: Morning – Udaipur Sightseeing and Breakfast at Jagat Niwas
Day two of my Udaipur exploration began with an early morning visit to Sajjangarh Palace, also known as the Monsoon Palace. Perched atop a hill, the palace offers panoramic views of Udaipur’s lakes and the surrounding countryside. The early morning light and cool breeze made this the perfect time to visit.
After exploring the palace, I indulged in a hearty breakfast at Jagat Niwas Palace Hotel, a lakeside heritage hotel. The open terrace overlooking Lake Pichola provided the perfect setting to enjoy a classic Indian breakfast of parathas and lassi while soaking in the breathtaking views.
Taxi to Local Markets and Artisans
Using a Cab Service in Udaipur, I then made my way to the bustling markets of Udaipur. The Hathi Pol Bazaar is famous for its vibrant textiles, Rajasthani handicrafts, and miniature paintings. I couldn’t resist picking up a few souvenirs, including a beautifully hand-painted pichwai artwork and traditional mojari shoes.
For those interested in learning about local arts, I recommend visiting Shilpgram, a rural arts and crafts complex located on the outskirts of Udaipur. This open-air museum showcases the rich crafts, music, and dance traditions of Rajasthan.
Day 2: Afternoon – Udaipur Sightseeing Taxi to Shree Jagdish Temple and Beyond
For my final afternoon in Udaipur, I used an Udaipur Sightseeing Taxi to conveniently visit the Shree Jagdish Temple and nearby points of interest. The ease of travel allowed me to make the most of my day without worrying about time constraints.
Lunch at Ambrai Restaurant
For lunch, I opted for the much-recommended Ambrai Restaurant, located by the banks of Lake Pichola. The restaurant is known for its serene ambiance and views of the City Palace and Lake Palace. I decided to try their Rajasthani specialties, including ker sangri and safed maas, both of which were bursting with unique flavors.
Day 2: Evening – A Mesmerizing End at Bagore Ki Haveli
As my 48-hour journey in Udaipur neared its end, I spent the evening at Bagore Ki Haveli, a historic haveli (mansion) located right on the waterfront of Lake Pichola. The haveli hosts a cultural show in the evening, which features traditional Rajasthani folk dances and music. The performance was mesmerizing, with dancers dressed in colorful costumes twirling to the beat of the drums, providing a fitting end to my Udaipur adventure.
A Final Sweet Treat
Before heading back to my hotel, I treated myself to some malai ghewar, a traditional Rajasthani dessert, from one of the city’s popular sweet shops. The rich, sweet taste was the perfect way to cap off an unforgettable 48 hours in Udaipur.
Conclusion
From serene lakeside walks and majestic palaces to vibrant markets and delicious Rajasthani cuisine, my two days in Udaipur were packed with unforgettable experiences. The ease of using local taxi services and the warmth of the city’s culture made this trip both convenient and enriching. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just someone looking to immerse yourself in the beauty of Rajasthan, Udaipur has something special to offer.
