Udaipur, also known as the “City of Lakes,” is one of the most elegant destinations in Rajasthan. If you have just one day to experience this regal city, you’ll want to make every hour count. This Udaipur day tour itinerary is designed to give you a real taste of its palaces, lakes, art, and heritage, without feeling rushed.
From sunrise views to evening boat rides, this guide helps you plan a meaningful and memory-worthy day in Udaipur.
Start Your Morning with Sunrise at Fateh Sagar Lake
Begin your Udaipur day tour early—ideally around 6:00 AM. Fateh Sagar Lake is one of the most peaceful places to witness the morning glow. Locals jog, walk, and sip tea here while the gentle sound of rippling water surrounds the lake.
What to Do:
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Walk along the promenade.
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Sip chai at the lakeside stalls.
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Watch the first light touch the Aravalli Hills.
Time to Spend: 45 minutes
Tip: Carry a light jacket if you’re visiting in the winter months.
Breakfast at a Rooftop Café with Lake Views
After your morning walk, head to a rooftop café in the old city for breakfast. The views of Lake Pichola and the City Palace in the distance make your meal even more enjoyable.
Recommended cafés:
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Café Edelweiss (for continental options)
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Jheel’s Rooftop Café (for Indian and lakefront views)
Time to Spend: 1 hour
Must Try: Masala chai, pancakes, aloo paratha
Visit City Palace – Udaipur’s Regal Landmark
No Udaipur day tour is complete without visiting the City Palace. This massive structure is a mix of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture, with courtyards, balconies, towers, and stunning views of the lake.
Highlights:
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Crystal Gallery
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Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard)
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Sheesh Mahal
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Museums showcasing royal costumes, weapons, and artwork
Time to Spend: 2–2.5 hours
Entry Fee: Approx ₹300 for Indians, ₹700 for foreigners
Note: Photography is allowed in some areas only.
Jagdish Temple – A 17th Century Marvel
A short walk from the City Palace takes you to Jagdish Temple, built in 1651. It’s a beautifully carved temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Things to Observe:
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Detailed stone carvings on the outer walls
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The Garuda statue at the entrance
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Traditional Rajasthani temple structure with intricate steps
Time to Spend: 30 minutes
Tip: Footwear must be removed before entering.
Walk Through Old City Streets and Local Bazaars
Spend your late morning strolling through the narrow lanes of the old city. These streets are full of life, color, and craftsmanship.
What You’ll Find:
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Miniature paintings
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Leather journals
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Handmade juttis
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Traditional Rajasthani jewelry
This walk is not just for shopping—it gives you a glimpse into local life.
Time to Spend: 1 hour
Best Streets: Hathipole, Bada Bazaar, and Ghanta Ghar
Lunch at a Traditional Rajasthani Restaurant
You’ve now worked up an appetite. Enjoy a hearty Rajasthani thali at a local restaurant. Udaipur is known for its rich flavors and unique combinations.
Top Places for Lunch:
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Natraj Dining Hall (thali experience)
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Krishna Dal Bati Restro (for dal bati churma)
Must Try Items:
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Gatte ki sabzi
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Ker sangri
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Bajre ki roti with garlic chutney
Time to Spend: 1 hour
Tip: Portions are generous—come hungry!
Saheliyon Ki Bari – The Garden of Royal Ladies
Post-lunch, head to Saheliyon Ki Bari, a peaceful garden built for the royal ladies of the court. It features fountains, marble pavilions, and a lotus pool.
Things to Admire:
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Elephant-shaped fountains
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Lush green lawns
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Lotus pond surrounded by marble arches
Time to Spend: 45 minutes
Entry Fee: Approx ₹20 for Indian nationals
Visit the Vintage Car Museum
If you enjoy automobiles or simply want something different, the Vintage Car Museum offers a unique break in your Udaipur day tour. It features classic cars used by the Maharajas of Udaipur.
Famous Cars to See:
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Rolls Royce Phantom
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1939 Cadillac
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Classic convertibles and limousines
Time to Spend: 45 minutes
Entry Fee: Approx ₹250
Sunset Boat Ride on Lake Pichola
By now, it’s late afternoon and the perfect time to relax with a boat ride on Lake Pichola. This is the highlight of any Udaipur day tour and gives you breathtaking views of the City Palace, Jag Mandir, and Taj Lake Palace.
Boat Ride Options:
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Public boats from City Palace jetty
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Private boats available at higher charges
Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Tip: Choose the 5:30–6:30 PM slot for golden hour photos.
Jag Mandir – Optional Stop During Boat Ride
Some boat rides allow a stop at Jag Mandir Island. This 17th-century island palace is surrounded by water and has beautiful courtyards and domes.
Time to Spend: 30 minutes (if included)
Note: Entry is allowed only with a boat ticket that includes Jag Mandir access.
Dinner at a Heritage Haveli or Rooftop Restaurant
Conclude your day with dinner at one of Udaipur’s heritage havelis or modern rooftop restaurants. The night view of the illuminated City Palace is unforgettable.
Recommended Dining Spots:
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Upre by 1559 AD (rooftop)
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Ambrai Restaurant (by the lake)
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Jagat Niwas Palace (heritage setting)
Cuisine Choices:
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Rajasthani
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Mughlai
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Indian-Chinese fusion
Time to Spend: 1.5–2 hours
Tip: Book in advance to secure a good table.
Cultural Show at Bagore Ki Haveli (Optional)
If you still have energy, attend the folk dance and puppet show at Bagore Ki Haveli. It’s a great way to end your Udaipur day tour with local flavor.
Show Timings: 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Entry Fee: ₹90 (Indian adults), ₹150 (foreigners)
Highlights:
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Ghoomar dance
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Puppet performance
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Bhavai – balancing act on pots
Time to Spend: 1 hour
Location: Gangaur Ghat
Best Time for Udaipur Day Tour
The ideal time for a Udaipur day tour is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing. Summers can be too hot, while the monsoon brings lush greenery but can limit outdoor movement.
Transport Tips for a Smooth Udaipur Day Tour
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Auto-rickshaws: Widely available and good for short distances.
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Taxis: Pre-booked taxis are best if you’re traveling with family.
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Self-drive scooters: Budget-friendly and flexible if you’re comfortable with local traffic.
Most attractions are within 3–5 km, so travel time is short.
Final Thoughts
A single day in Udaipur might seem short, but with the right plan, you can immerse yourself in the city’s regal charm, heritage architecture, artistic roots, and culinary depth. This Udaipur day tour plan blends history, nature, and culture to give you a full experience without feeling rushed.
If you’re planning a short trip or passing through Rajasthan, this one-day itinerary ensures that your time in Udaipur becomes a memory worth holding onto.
