Nestled amidst the Aravalli Hills in Rajasthan, Udaipur is called the “City of Lakes” and the “Venice of the East” for good reason.
This romantic city is centered around beautiful lakes, dotted with marble palaces, ancient temples, vibrant bazaars, and lively culture.
With its colorful history stretching back to the 16th century, Udaipur makes for an unforgettable trip back in time with modern comforts.
In this complete travel guide, we map out an ultimate 5-day Udaipur itinerary that covers all the must-see attractions, tastes authentic Rajasthani cuisine, enjoys a stay at a lake palace hotel, and discovers the region’s rich history and culture.
Day 1 in Udaipur – Explore the Lakes and Palaces
Start your first day by enjoying Udaipur’s gorgeous lakes.Visit Lake Pichola early morning when sunlight illuminates the Lake Palace Hotel shining like an ethereal white marble vision floating in the water. Take a relaxing boat cruise for picture-perfect views of the City Palace complex and jagged Aravalli Hills as a backdrop.
Next immerse yourself in the splendor of Udaipur’s palaces like the majestic City Palace.This sprawling complex has a unique mix of Rajput and European architecture styles. Don’t miss a trip to the Crystal Gallery with the world’s largest collection of crystal under one roof.
End your day enjoying the sunset over Lake Pichola—a magical Udaipur experience. Stay overnight at charming heritage hotel with lake views like the Oberoi Udaivilas or Taj Lake Palace to recreate royal life.
Day 2 in Udaipur – Temples, Spirituality and Street Food
Start your second day by exploring the vibrant old city bazaars north of City Palace.Wander down narrow lanes dotted with ornately carved haveli mansions to shop for vibrant textiles, miniature paintings, silver jewelry, and handmade leather goods.
Make your way to Jagdish Temple, an indoors Hindu temple decorated with beautifully carved pillars and sculptures of elephants and deities. In the afternoon,visit Eklingji Temple, an ancient Shiva temple close to Udaipur beloved by former Mewar rulers with intricate stone carvings showcasing a blend of Rajput and Dravidian styles.
As the sun sets, join local residents on ghats by Lake Pichola to feast on flavorful Rajasthani street food like mirchi vada, dal kachori, and aloo tikki while enjoying culturals performances by local artists.
Day 3: Day Trip to Chittorgarh Fort and Kumbhalgarh
On your third day, take a guided tour to explore majestic hill forts close to Udaipur including Chittorgarh and Kumbhalgarh for a thrilling dose of history. Start early to beat the crowds and heat as you explore one of India’s largest forts, the sprawling Chittorgarh Fort.This UNESCO World Heritage Site has seen bloody battles and jauhar (mass self-immolation by women) during sieges chronicled in poems and songs across Rajasthan. Don’t miss the colossal Vijay Stambh victory tower and evocative ruins like Padmini’s Palace.
Next make your way about 1.5 hours driving to explore Kumbhalgarh Fort, another UNESCO site and birthplace of famous king Maharana Pratap. Admire the impressive 36 km outer walls of the fort zigzagging over the Aravali Hills, said to be second largest wall in the world after the Great Wall of China.
Return to Udaipur for a relaxing evening and preparations for day 4. Stay overnight at a Udaipur heritage haveli hotel to add old world charm to your itinerary.
Day 4: Cooking Class, Vintage Car Ride and Cultural Show
On your fourth day, start your morning bylearning how to cook mouthwatering Rajasthani dishes like dal bati churma (lentils with baked wheat balls and sweet paste), gatte ki sabzi (gram flour dumpling curry) and missi roti (gram flour flatbread) at a cooking class conducted by local women.
In the late afternoon, take a short vintage car ride from your hotel through Udaipur’s market streets. Later experience the color and music of Rajasthan firsthand by watching a dazzling cultural show of traditional dance forms like Bhavai and Ghoomar performed by skilled local artists.
Day 5: Day Trip to Ranakpur and Kumbalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary
On your last day, make your way 1.5 hours driving to explore the magnificent Jain temples at Ranakpur including Chaumukha temple, considered among the most beautiful temples in India.. Marvel at the intricately carved domes, columns and sculptures covering almost every inch of the white marble temple supported by over 1,400 pillars.
On your drive back, visit Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, a hilly forest that is home to wolves, leopards, sloth bears, hyenas, jackals and over 200 bird species. Enjoy a guided open-air jeep safari ride spotting wildlife before returning to Udaipur by evening.
Spend your final evening dining at a rooftop restaurant overlooking scintillating Lake Pichola lit-up at night—bidding a fond farewell to your enchanting Udaipur memories.
Conclusion:
With its glittering lakes, majestic hilltop forts, ancient temples and vibrant culture, Udaipur makes for an unforgettable trip to India’s most romantic destination. This comprehensive 5-day Udaipur travel itinerary covers all the highlights and hidden gems for first-time travelers wanting to experience the best of the city and surrounding region.
