Udaipur Holidays

Romance, royalty and lakeside living

Since Colonel James Tod declared Udaipur “the most romantic spot on the continent of India” in the late 1820s, the ‘City of Lakes’ has done its absolute best to capitalise on its idyllic, natural surroundings and magnificent Rajput-era palaces.

Once you’ve ticked off the must-sees in this pretty part of India, leave some time for the gorgeous countryside.

Visit Monsoon Palace, greet a local tribe or admire Nathdwara, the temple town. For exceptional cuisine, visit the distinguished Bedla family, and for beauty and tranquillity, take a trip to Rajsamand Lake and admire the marble carvings.

Sunset over City Palace and the Lake Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan

Tourism has boomed here, enthusiastically supported by Maharana Mahendra Singh Mewar of Udaipur’s former royal family.

Unlike Jaipur or Jodhpur, where arid landscapes dominate, Udaipur’s rolling hills and picturesque lakes offer a striking contrast.

A boat ride across Lake Pichola remains one of the city’s greatest pleasures: admiring intricate paintings and mosaics and experiencing the colours, sights and delicious smells of an evening bazaar. The City Palace is a sight to behold, a striking and grandiose monument perched on the hilltop overlooking the city. The Lake Palace, adorned in white marble, spans four acres with 83 rooms, now used as a luxury hotel. A walk through Sahelion Ki-Bari (Garden of the Maids of Honor) is a delight. If you’re lucky enough to be in town for a festival, take in the brightly coloured costumes and Rajasthani songs and dances.