Top Things to Do in Udaipur: A Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors
Plan your trip with this Udaipur travel guide covering top attractions, things to do, places to visit, and tips for first-time visitors.
Udaipur, often called the City of Lakes, is one of Rajasthan’s most beautiful destinations. Surrounded by the Aravalli Hills and dotted with shimmering lakes, grand palaces, historic temples, and lively markets, the city offers a wonderful mix of culture, history, and scenic beauty. Whether you are visiting for a weekend or planning a longer Rajasthan holiday, there are plenty of experiences to add to your itinerary. This guide covers the top things to do in Udaipur for first-time visitors, from exploring royal landmarks to enjoying peaceful lake views.
Explore the Magnificent City Palace
The City Palace is one of the most famous landmarks in Udaipur and a great place to begin your trip. Overlooking Lake Pichola, this impressive palace complex showcases the grandeur of Rajasthan’s royal past. Inside, you can explore beautifully decorated courtyards, balconies, rooms, galleries, and museums filled with historic artefacts and artwork. The palace also offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding city, making it one of the best places to visit in Udaipur for history and architecture lovers.
Enjoy a Boat Ride on Lake Pichola
A boat ride on Lake Pichola is one of the most memorable things to do in Udaipur. The calm waters provide beautiful views of the City Palace, Jag Mandir, surrounding hills, and traditional buildings along the waterfront. A sunset boat ride is particularly popular as the changing colours of the sky create a beautiful backdrop over the lake. It is a relaxing way to see some of Udaipur’s most iconic sights from a different perspective.
Visit the Peaceful Jag Mandir
Located on an island in Lake Pichola, Jag Mandir is a historic palace surrounded by water. Also known as the Lake Garden Palace, it features elegant courtyards, marble structures, gardens, and impressive stonework. You can visit Jag Mandir as part of a lake boat tour and spend some time exploring the peaceful surroundings. The combination of architecture and lake views makes it a lovely addition to your Udaipur itinerary.
Admire the Beauty of Saheliyon Ki Bari
Saheliyon Ki Bari is a historic garden known for its fountains, lush greenery, marble pavilions, and lotus pools. Built for the royal women of the Mewar kingdom, the garden offers a quieter experience away from the busier attractions. Walking through its landscaped pathways is a pleasant way to enjoy a slower side of the city and learn more about the lifestyle of Rajasthan’s royal families.
Discover the Charm of Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace
Perched on a hill overlooking Udaipur, Sajjangarh, popularly known as the Monsoon Palace, offers some of the finest panoramic views of the city. The palace was originally built as an astronomical centre and later became a royal retreat. Its elevated location makes it especially appealing around sunset, when you can see the lakes, hills, and cityscape stretching into the distance. If you are wondering what to do in Udaipur in the evening, watching the sunset from here is worth adding to your plans.
Explore Udaipur’s Old City and Local Markets
Beyond its grand palaces and lakes, Udaipur’s Old City is full of colourful streets, traditional shops, local cafés, and handicraft stores. Take a walk through the narrow lanes to discover Rajasthani textiles, jewellery, paintings, pottery, and souvenirs. Markets such as Hathi Pol are popular for traditional handicrafts and artwork. Exploring the Old City also gives you an opportunity to try local food and experience the everyday character of Udaipur.
Spend Time at Fateh Sagar Lake
Fateh Sagar Lake is another beautiful spot to include among the top things to do in Udaipur. Surrounded by hills and greenery, the lake is a popular place for an evening stroll or a relaxing break. You can enjoy the views, spend time near the waterfront, or take a boat ride across the lake. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a good choice for travellers looking to escape the busy parts of the city.
Experience Udaipur at Sunset
One of the best things to do in Udaipur for first-time visitors is simply to slow down and enjoy its beautiful surroundings. From rooftop restaurants overlooking Lake Pichola to viewpoints around the city, there are many places to watch the sunset. As the palaces and lakes glow in the evening light, Udaipur takes on a magical atmosphere that is difficult to miss.
Plan Your Udaipur Holiday
With its royal heritage, beautiful lakes, colourful markets, and scenic surroundings, Udaipur has something for every type of traveller. From exploring historic palaces and taking a boat ride on Lake Pichola to discovering local markets and enjoying sunset views, the city can easily keep you occupied for several days. If you are planning your first visit, including these experiences will help you make the most of your time and discover why Udaipur remains one of Rajasthan’s most captivating destinations. Short on time? Check out this 24-hour Udaipur itinerary to discover how to experience the city’s major attractions in just one day.










