Udaipur: 3 Days by the Lake in Luxury
Culture, Luxe, and Beauty everything wrapped in this beautiful lake city of India, Udaipur.
The Desert State of India, Rajasthan has been renowned for its cultural, historical, and artistic heterogeneity. Bustling with scintillating colors, soulful art forms, peculiar crafts, aromatic cuisines, landscapes filled with palatial forts, temples, and gardens, and streets teeming with compassionate people who are the living emblem of Rajasthan’s erstwhile splendor, this state is a heaven for the travelers who are in pursuit of beauty and culture.
Udaipur, nestled in the southern region of this celebrated state, is everything that Rajasthan is famous for. The city is also called “Venice of the East” because of its astonishing beauty, but once you visit it, you realize that it has a charm of its own. A sense of tranquility distinguishes Udaipur from the other cities of Rajasthan.
The story behind the inception of the city goes that a saint who was meditating on a hill near the now-famous Pichola lake counseled the Mewar king Udai Singh the second to build his capital on that land. At that time, Chittorgarh, the former Mewar capital, was besieged by Akbar in the 16th century. The king also found this lake-enriched land surrounded by lush green Aravalli mountains to be ideal and the rest is history.
View from Jagat Niwas Palace, Udaipur, India. For more travel content follow @shivanis_travelverse
What to Expect
BEST TIME TO VISIT
DURATION OF STAY
HOW TO GET THERE?
UDAIPUR: THREE-DAY ITINERARY
Day 1 - Check-in - Lakend Resort - Fateh Sagar Lake - Lunch @ Chappan Bhog - Saheliyon ki Bari - Shopping - Dine @ Lakend Resort
Day 2 - Check-in to Zostel Udaipur - City Palace - Lunch @ Khamma Ghani - Lake Pichola Gallery Cafe - Lake Pichola Sunset Boating - Dinner @ Upré Rooftop
Day 3 - Breakfast @ Zostel, Udaipur Rooftop - Maharana Pratap Museum - Gangaur Ghat - Lunch @ Jagat Niwas Palace - Shopping in Udaipur Market near Gangaur Ghat - Oberoi Udaivillas Udaipur tour - Sunset light view from Udaivillas Palace.
HOTEL LAKEND RESORT, UDAIPUR
OBEROI UDAIVILLAS
City Palace, Udaipur, India. For more travel content follow @shivanis_travelverse
BEST TIME TO VISITUdaipur is considered an all-year travel destination, although I’d recommend that you plan your travel here between October and January. Rajasthan, being a tropical state, can be hot and humid, and the monsoon season isn't always pleasant. Because the city has recently become a favorite venue for Indian weddings, you should avoid visiting during the wedding season, which stretches from January to March. (During this season, everything tends to be booked and pricey.)
We visited during mid-September.
DURATION OF STAYUdaipur is a charming small city, built on and around Lake Pichola. Hence you can easily explore most of its significant sites and monuments in three days. However, you need to spend a minimum of two days here, to fully experience this laid-back vibed cultural city. For some people it is a perfect weekend getaway, while some can spend weeks here and never get enough of the city.
HOW TO GET THERE?A flight from Delhi to Udaipur is the quickest and most convenient way to travel. Flights are also available from other major Indian cities. (Airport is located at a distance of 22 km from the city while the railway station is 2.5 km from the city center) Trains and buses run frequently between these cities and Udaipur. As a result, you can choose the most convenient medium based on your budget and time constraints.
Rajasthan has also gained popularity as a destination for road trips. So, if you're with a bunch of pals, hop in the car and drive to this magnificent state, halting along the way whenever you see something intriguing.
The best and the most recommended way to travel within the city is on foot. Since. Most of the sites are nearby, you can stroll from one monument to another, witnessing the various shades of the city’s culture and locals on your way. For any far-off place, rickshaws and cabs are easily available. Staying in the old city can save a lot of your time.
Udaipur runs on hospitality and tourism. People are usually courteous and willing to help. So, if you're stuck, ask around.
View of beautiful Lake Pichola alongside City Palace of Udaipur, India. For more travel content follow @shivanis_travelverse (Image source - Squarespace library)
UDAIPUR: THREE-DAY ITINERARYLittle city between a shimmering lake, full of grandeur and beauty.
DAY 1
Lakend Resort, Udaipur. For more travel content follow @shivanis_travelverse
We spent three days exploring the city of lakes (Udaipur). On our first day, we checked into our resort, Hotel Lakend, in the late morning. What welcomed us was the invigorating rhythm of Ravan Hatho (A Rajasthani musical instrument) and that made us realize that indeed, we had arrived in Rajasthan. Mesmerized by the grandeur of the royal resort, we spent a few hours appreciating and observing the place.
Soon, hunger struck us, and we made our way to a restaurant called Chappan Bhog, where we feast on delectable Rajasthani thali.
While in Udaipur you got to enjoy the alluring waters of two serene lakes - Fateh Sagar and Lake Pichola. Fateh Sagar Lake is situated north of Lake Pichola. The bonus is that Resort Lakend has a perfect location right by Fateh Sagar Lake. So on day one, you see Fateh Sagar following you everywhere you go.
Fateh Sagar Lake, Udaipur, India. For more travel content follow @shivanis_travelverse!
Saheliyon ki Bari, Udaipur, India. For more travel content follow @shivanis_travelverse
We chose to visit Saheliyon Ki Bari as it was close by. The maidens' courtyard or garden is known as Saheliyon ki Bari. This gorgeous garden was created by Maharana Bhopal Singh for the queen's female attendants. This facility, located near Fateh Sagar Lake, features lovely gardens, lotus ponds, and even a tiny museum.
The early evening was spent at the Art gallery doing some local shopping. When you visit the vibrant markets of Udaipur, you can't resist the desire to bring home a plethora of artifacts and garments. We then returned to our resort for a lakeside dinner.
DAY 2
Zostel Udaipur, India. For more travel content follow @shivanis_travelverse
On the second day, we checked out of our Hotel Lakend room. The following place of stay was located within the thriving old city. We had reserved a room at the Zostel Udaipur. Because the hostel was located in the old city, the majority of the attractions were within walking distance.
Royal City Palace of Udaipur, India. . For more travel content follow @shivanis_travelverse
We started by visiting the well-known City Palace. The city palace was built in 1553 by Udai Singh II, the founder of Udaipur, and is the most awe-inspiring monument of its kind in Rajasthan. This pinnacle of Rajputana royalty is a conjunction of Mughal and Rajasthani architectural styles. It overlooks Lake Pichola and several historic monuments such as the Lake Palace, Jag Mandir, Jagdish Temple, Monsoon Palace, and Neemach Mata temple, all of which are within walking distance of the palace complex.
The palace complex's interiors are just as impressive as its exteriors. The complex's balconies, towers, and cupolas are adorned with exquisite mirror work, marblework, murals, wall paintings, silverwork, inlay work, and tinted glass.
Khamma Ghanni Restaurant, Udaipur. For more travel content follow @shivanis_travelverse
We took our time wandering through this regal edifice and then headed to Khamma Ghani for lunch after spending a couple of hours here. The restaurant serves scrumptious Rajasthani cuisine. Veg fritters, Dahi Ke Kabab, Dal Bati Churma, and a cooling kulfi rounded off our meal.
View from Lake Pichola Gallery Cafe, Udaipur, India.
We went to Lake Pichola Gallery Cafe after lunch to savor the panoramic view of Lake Pichola and the buzzing city of Udaipur that surrounded it. Lake Pichola is a man-made lake and the city's oldest and largest. It has
historical significance because the city was established around the lake and it flourishes because of the resources and beauty this lake brings.
Sunset boating in Lake Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan.
The next stop was the Lake Pichola Sunset Boating Point, which was located at the Lake Pichola Hotel. We felt ecstatic after a long day, sitting peacefully on our boat as it swayed on the calm waters of the lake, marveling at the pink sunset enveloping Udaipur in its warm embrace. Soon, the sun bade us adieu and the city lights began to appear. The city looked even more beautiful with its twinkling lights.
The restaurant Upre was where we had our dinner. We called it a day after a hearty dinner and returned to our hostel for a restful night's sleep.
DAY 3
Morning view from Zostel, Udaipur. For more travel content follow @shivanis_travelverse
Our third day began with breakfast with a view. The Zostel Udaipur features a magnificent rooftop cafe with views of the old city and the turquoise shimmering lakes. We continued our exploration as the local people embraced another day. We started the day with a shopping spree near the scenic Gangaur Ghat. Gangaur is the most prominent ghat here. It is located on the shores of Lake Pichola. It is known for Bagore Ki Haveli, a popular tourist attraction.
View of Lake Pichola from rooftop of Jagat Niwas, Palace.
The best thing about strolling through the streets of Udaipur is that you get to witness the intimate and intricate parts of the city. The one-of-a-kind murals on the walls, quaint temples, and eager locals smiling at you give you the true joy of travel.
For lunch, we headed to Jagat Nivas Palace hotel. It is a heritage boutique hotel and is highly acclaimed for its location and its stunning view. It is a vintage haveli that was transformed into a hotel. We enjoyed delicious food in the beautiful setting of the palace.
Majestic Oberoi Udaivillas, Udaipur, Rajasthan. For more travel content follow @shivanis_travelverse
We returned to our hostel to change clothes before heading to Udaivillas. Oberoi Udaivilas is a hotel with the grandeur of a palace, with sculpted gardens, shady courtyards, ornamental fountains and reflection pools, cool marble, artistic carving, inlay work, and exquisite interiors. We enjoyed a tour of the place followed by a light show. And then we returned to Zostel for dinner.
Majestic Oberoi Udaivillas, Udaipur, Rajasthan. For more travel content follow @shivanis_travelverse
Majestic Oberoi Udaivillas, Udaipur, Rajasthan. For more travel content follow @shivanis_travelverse
The next morning, we checked out of our hostel room and returned home. But we departed Udaipur with a profound sense of admiration for Indian art and culture and a deep desire to preserve its erstwhile glory.
A luxurious stay in the city of Udaipur: Hotel Lakend Resort
WHAT IS SPECIAL ABOUT THIS STAY?
Hotel Lakend Resort. (Source : myudaipurcity.com)
Set on the bank of the historic Fatehpur lake (one of the prime attractions of Udaipur), Hotel Lakend is a luxury hotel. The hotel boasts a lakeside open pool, a spa with an outdoor Jacuzzi as well as a wellness centre. Its opulent rooms provide a perfect view of both the serene lake on one side and the picturesque Udaipur city on the other.
The hotel is 5 km from the railway station and 24 km from Maharana Pratap Airport. Its significant location, in addition to the regal ambiance created by the traditional exterior and structure, and the modern amenities, makes Hotel Lakend an ideal stay for a luxurious experience of Rajasthan.
The hotel also offers a kids’ play area, yoga sessions, a gym, and boat and camel rides.
WHERE CAN WE GET THE BEST DEALS FOR THIS?
Royal suite at 4 star Hotel Lakend Resort. (Source : myudaipurcity.com / booking.com)
You can check out and book the rooms from their website. I have attached the link below. You’re welcome!
CLEANLINESSYou get to experience grandiose at Hotel Lakend. The stately architecture and modern stylistic interior come together to create an ideal setting for witnessing culture and luxury. The ambiance was calm and pleasant, and
the service was exceptional. We were provided with all the essential utilities and additional luxuries. The hygiene was also well maintained.
FOODHotel Lakend provides three fine dining options. First and foremost, there is the Urban Tadka Restaurant. It serves a wide range of cuisines, from Indian to pan-Asian. The mix of delectable meals and breathtaking scenery should not be missed.
The tapas bar of their rooftop restaurant, Bougainvillea Terrace, offers a stunning atmosphere as well as refreshing cocktails and drinks galore.
Finally, Frangipani by The Lake provides lakefront seating with contemporary music, foreign cocktails, and finger cuisine makes your evening a calm, cozy and comfy.
LOCATIONNumerous tourist attractions are close to the hotel. There is also convenient access to shuttles and cabs. You can also get bicycles from the hotel.
We spent our first day at Udaipur at Lakend Resort. The resort, is a work of art. The place is majestic from the entrance to the riverfront. Indeed, as you travel through the lobby and onto the lake yard, there is a live performance of Ravan hatho (a traditional Rajasthani musical instrument). It perfectly complimented the reality of being in Rajasthan. The buffet was adequate; the choices were good but very generic. Dinners, on the other hand, are well worth the money.
There aren't many activities to do here, but it's a fantastic location to spend a day enjoying the setting sun in Fatehpur Lake while immersing yourself in the city's tranquility. However, the hotel can be a little pricey. So, lets jump to the other place where we stayed. Scroll on!
The hub of backpackers and travelers: Zostel Udaipur
Beautiful sunrise view from Deluxe suite of Zostel Udaipur. (Source : booking.com/ zostel.com )
WHAT IS SPECIAL ABOUT THIS STAY?If you’re looking for an economic stay that doesn’t compromise your comforts and offers you an experience to remember, then Zostel Udaipur might be it for you! The hostel is located in the old city, at the heart of Udaipur and hence it has become an ideal place for all the backpackers who arrive here to relish this city of culture, exploring it on foot. The place has a lovely rooftop cafe. It is a perfect vantage point to gaze at the magnificent city palaces, lakes, and the rhythm of human life that dwells among this beauty.
The hostel provides a social space for all fellow travelers who aspire to connect and create a community. With its activity room and friendly environment, you get to leave the place with many more friends than you first arrived with. It is within walkable distance of many of the must-visit sites of the city like Bagore ki Haveli, Jagdish temple, and the City Palace of Udaipur. The nearest airport is Maharana Pratap Airport, 24.1 km from the hostel.
WHERE CAN WE GET THE BEST DEALS FOR THIS?You can check out and book the rooms from their website. I have attached the link below. You’re welcome!
Lake view from Rooftop. Zostel Udaipur. (Source : booking.com/ zostel.com )
FOODZostel Udaipur has a rooftop terrace with a rooftop cafe and bar to enjoy warm appetizing food and refreshing drinks with a dazzling view of Lake Pichola and the bustling city.
AMBIENCEZostel Udaipur is like any modern-day travelers’ hostel but with an interesting amalgamation of contemporary and traditional. It has a unique interior with many catchy paintings on its walls as well as Rajasthani elements.
The ambiance is quite relaxing and free. The staff is helping and cooperative. The cleanliness and hygiene are maintained quite well.
For a backpacker or a traveler on a budget trip, this hostel is perfect.
If Luxury was a place: Oberoi Udaivillas
“Way before experiential became every hotelier’s buzzword of choice, Udaivilas, the biggest of Oberoi’s five resorts, was love-bombing its guests with adventures offering a taster or full immersion in Indian heritage.” Catherine Fairweather shares her experience with Conde Nast Traveller.
To fully immerse oneself in the sheer romanticism and captivating allure of Udaipur, India's fabled 'City of Lakes,' one must seek out the stay option of equal splendor and opulence. After all, only the most enchanting accommodations can adequately match the city's charm and mystical essence. That's why, without hesitation, I chose the sublime Oberoi Udaivilas Palace for my trip in Udaipur.
Majestic Oberoi Udaivillas, Udaipur, Rajasthan. For more travel content follow @shivanis_travelverse (Image source - The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur – Hotel Review | Condé Nast Traveler)
The palace sits majestically on the shores of Lake Pichola, surrounded by immaculately landscaped gardens and stunning architecture that exudes the grandeur of India's royal past. Guests are transported into a world of culture, heritage, and luxury, where every detail, from the exquisite decor to the sumptuous furnishings, has been crafted to create an atmosphere of elegance.
The palace offers an array of activities and experiences that elevate the guests' stay to another level, including a luxurious spa and pool, exceptional dining options, and breathtaking views of the lake. With an unwavering commitment to refinement and exclusivity, the Oberoi Udaivilas Palace sets the standard for luxury travel and guarantees an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking to explore the rich heritage and cultural beauty of Udaipur.
Majestic Oberoi Udaivillas, Udaipur, Rajasthan. For more travel content follow @shivanis_travelverse (Image source - The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur – Hotel Review | Condé Nast Traveler)
With fountain-studded courtyards overlooking the Aravalli Hills, the grand hotel's design seamlessly blends traditional Rajasthani architecture with modern amenities, creating a luxurious and elegant atmosphere that blends sophistication and refinement.
The palace's exterior is a sight to behold, with its impressive façade featuring domes, arches, and intricate carvings that are characteristic of Rajasthani architecture. The palace is surrounded by meticulously landscaped gardens, fountains, and courtyards that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
The staff is committed to providing guests with the highest level of service and cleanliness. The staff is attentive, courteous, and always ready to assist in any way possible. The palace's facilities and utilities are also top-notch, including a luxurious spa, exceptional dining options, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Every inch of the palace, from the rooms to the public areas, is impeccably clean and well-maintained, ensuring that guests have a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Food
The Oberoi Udaivilas Palace in Udaipur offers exceptional dining options that reflect the city's rich culinary heritage. Udaimahal serves authentic Rajasthani cuisine, Surya Mahal offers al fresco dining with stunning views, and Chandni is a bar and lounge. Guests can also enjoy a private dinner on a boat on Lake Pichola. The palace's commitment to fresh and local ingredients ensures an unforgettable dining experience.
