If you’re heading to India, you absolutely have to visit the state of Rajasthan. There is so much to see and do here, from stunning palaces to bustling markets, and each city has its own personality and charm. But for me, one city stands out as truly special, peaceful, and above all, beautiful. That city is Udaipur, often called the City of Lakes.
Compared to some of the larger, more chaotic cities in Rajasthan, Udaipur feels calm and laid back. There’s a unique charm to the streets, the architecture, and the way the city sits perfectly around its shimmering lakes. The views all around are breathtaking. Whether it’s the sun reflecting off the lakes at sunrise, the narrow streets decorated with colorful art and patterns, or the rooftop vistas at sunset, you can’t help but feel drawn into the city’s peaceful energy.
Udaipur is full of life, color, and creativity, yet it still manages to feel chill and relaxed. Every corner offers something beautiful to look at, whether it’s a painted wall, a quiet street, or a glimpse of the mountains in the distance. It’s a city that invites you to slow down, take it all in, and just soak up the vibes. Let’s dive into all the amazing parts of Udaipur and see what makes it one of the most beautiful cities in Rajasthan.
One of the main attractions of Udaipur is Lake Pichola. This massive lake sits right in the center of the city and is surrounded by some of the most beautiful architecture, including the luxury hotel Taj Lake Palace, which seems to float on the water. The views of the lake are absolutely breathtaking, especially because the city is built up all around the waterfront.
One of the best ways to experience Lake Pichola is by taking a boat out onto the water. From the middle of the lake, you get a completely different perspective of the city, with the palaces, temples, and colorful buildings reflected perfectly in the calm water. If you prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of rooftop cafes and hotels that offer incredible views of the lake, perfect for sipping a drink and watching the city glow as the sun sets.
The sunsets here are unforgettable. The sky lights up with oranges, pinks, and purples, and the colors reflect on the water and the buildings along the lakefront, creating a magical, almost dreamlike scene. You can also walk down to the edge of the lake for a closer perspective, where you’ll find locals hanging out, chatting, and enjoying the peaceful vibe of the water. It’s easy to see why the lakes in Udaipur make the city feel so serene and beautiful.
One of the best parts of Udaipur is how much nature surrounds the city. If you rent a bike or take a short drive out of town, you’ll be greeted with incredible landscapes, with the city nestled among rolling hills and mountains. Sunrise tours into the hills are an unforgettable experience, as the early morning light spills across the mountains and reflects off the lakes below.
One spot not to miss is Turtle Lake lookout point. From here, you can enjoy so many scenic viewpoints, each offering a different perspective of the city, the lakes, and the surrounding countryside. It’s much quieter out here compared to the bustling streets of Udaipur, which makes it the perfect place to slow down, take a deep breath, and really connect with nature. Being out in these peaceful surroundings gives you a whole new appreciation for the beauty of this city and its incredible setting.
Udaipur is not just a beautiful and peaceful city, it’s also full of history and culture waiting to be explored. One of the best places to start is the Udaipur City Palace, which is the second largest palace in India. You could easily spend an entire day wandering through its grand halls, courtyards, and balconies. The palace is full of history, and it houses a museum where you can explore countless artifacts, paintings, and incredible examples of traditional art and decoration that really showcase the culture and heritage of the city.
Beyond the palace, there are several beautiful temples and nearby forts to explore if you want to venture further. One highlight for many visitors is the evening dance show at the Pichola lakefront. This performance features traditional Rajasthani music, songs, and stunning costumes, offering a glimpse into the artistic and cultural heart of the city. Watching the dancers move across the stage as the sun sets over the lake is truly magical and gives you a deeper appreciation for Udaipur’s rich history and vibrant traditions.
One of the best parts about Udaipur is the incredible variety of places to stay and dine. The city is full of stunning upscale hotels that feel like palaces, with grand architecture, luxurious rooms, and views that make you feel like you’re living in a fairy tale. On the other side, there are amazing hostels that offer incredible views of the lakes and the city, perfect for travelers who want a mix of comfort and atmosphere.
During my time in Udaipur, I stayed at Dreamyard Hostel, and it was absolutely amazing. The rooftop views were insane, overlooking the city and Lake Pichola, and every evening they offered free chai at sunset. It was such a magical experience to sit there, watch the sky change colors, and soak in the city’s peaceful energy. The vibe and atmosphere of the hostel were unbeatable, and I can’t recommend it enough.
On top of that, Udaipur has so many beautiful, artistic cafes where you can enjoy a Rajasthani meal, a cup of coffee, or tea while taking in the stunning architecture, art, and colors around you. Whether you’re sipping chai on a quiet rooftop or exploring a bustling cafe tucked into a narrow street, these spots make it easy to slow down and really appreciate the city.
Overall, Udaipur is such an amazing city and has something for everyone. Whether you want to live like a king in a palace hotel, explore the nature surrounding the city, or just relax on a hostel rooftop at sunset, you’ll quickly fall in love with it. The atmosphere is so refreshing, calming, and peaceful, and the beauty, art, and vibes of the city are unforgettable.
Udaipur offers so much from history and culture to stunning landscapes and colorful streets full of life. Every corner feels like a little piece of magic and every experience leaves you appreciating the city even more. It’s one of those places that sticks with you long after you leave and it’s definitely worth adding to your bucket list.
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