There are a total of 15 long weekends in the year 2018. We’re sure all travel lovers must have already made a note of the places they are going to spend their holidays. One of the most popular destinations in North India is Rajasthan and one of the best places to visit is Udaipur. This guide will give you the low-down on what to do and where to stay in the city.

Often referred to as the ‘Venice of the East’, this small city in Rajasthan is a prime favourite of all types of travellers looking for a weekend getaway. The families and college kids like it as much as the newlywed couples. What is it about Udaipur that makes it one of the most preferred weekend destinations? Read on to know everything you need to know about exploring Udaipur and that too, in a limited span of two-to-three days.

How to reach Udaipur?

Air – The Maharana Pratap Airport is located at a distance of 22 kilometres from the city. Planes fly in from every major city in the country including Mumbai, Delhi, and Jaipur making it easily accessible.

The city is very well connected by rail and road too.

When to visit?

The ideal time to visit Udaipur is from October to March.

Where to stay?

Udaipur is world famous for the spectacular views its many lakes provide. You can choose to live anywhere around the five lakes in the city. Of all of them, tourists especially recommend taking up rooms near Lake Pichola or the Fateh Sagar Lake. Consider staying at The LaLiT Laxmi Vilas Palace Hotel Udaipur, located on a hilltop amidst the Aravalli range of mountains, overlooking the Fateh Sagar Lake. It is close to the city centre.

What to see in Udaipur?

The City Palace

The Mewar dynasty ruled Udaipur and has left behind its legacy in the architectural wonders. Start your weekend by visiting the very famous City Palace. Make sure you hire a guide that will take you through the most beautiful artefacts and explain the historical anecdotes behind their existence. A bathtub made out of a single piece of marble and an ancient toilet, especially catch the fancy of tourists. The intricate designs on the ceilings and walls are also noteworthy.

Lake Pichola

Next to the City Palace is the most famous of the five lakes in Udaipur, Lake Pichola. Book a boat that’ll ferry you around in the beautiful water providing breath-taking views of the surrounding Aravallis. Right in the middle of the lake lies the Jagmandir Palace, famous for hosting the big Indian weddings. Once you’re dropped here, take bewitching pictures of the garden or appreciate the beautiful marble structure you’ll find yourself in. A ferry will take you back to the city palace. There are many cafes here to satiate your appetite. Though a little heavy on the pocket, don’t forget to give them a visit.

Bagore ki Haveli

It lies in the vicinity of the City Palace. Artists from all over the state come and perform here in the evening for a special show. Anyone interested in Rajasthan’s culture must witness this cultural programme. A lot of tourists come to attend the programme, so make sure you take your seats by 7 pm.

Post the show you can spend some time at the Gangaur Ghat.

Saheliyon ki Bari

Next morning, visit the Saheliyon ki Bari. The famous garden was made for the princess and her friends. The garden is very picturesque. Lotus ponds, marble elephants and a variety of flora make it highly instagrammable.

Karni Mata Mandir

Next, you can give the famous Karni Mata Mandir a visit. The temple is located on a hill where you can reach via ropeway. The ropeway will provide you enchanting aerial views of the city.

Monsoon Palace

Post the darshans, we advise you to head on to the Monsoon Palace. The sunset here is mesmerizing, especially due to the various hues it creates in the skies.

Where to shop?

If souvenirs, paintings, and artisanal products are what you are yearning to purchase then look no further than Hathi Pol bazar. If you refrain from flea shopping then premium shops like Soma are your places to be. Experience a gastronomic trip at the best restaurants in Udaipur namely Aangan and Padmini at the LaLiT.

Tell us about your experience of Udaipur in the comments below.