Welcome Wanderlust,
Hello, This is Amit. I will be sharing about my journey to Udaipur and Kumbhalgarh with my family. Nestled in the heart of Rajasthan, Udaipur and Kumbhalgarh stand as epitomes of regal splendour and historical richness. Join me as I travel to historical places, seeking out hidden gems, cultural treasures, and unforgettable experiences.
Route from Delhi to Udaipur:
You can reach Udaipur by air, land, or train. It’s a developed city, perfect for family or romantic getaways. I started on a mesmerising journey from Delhi to Udaipur, traversing a distance of approximately 700 kilometres by road. Departing from Delhi at 8 PM, we arrived in Udaipur the next day at noon after a comfortable 15-hour drive on the well-developed highway with no off-road sections. One can visit Udaipur via rail through the Chetak Express, Mewar Express, etc.
Accommodation in Udaipur:
Udaipur offers a plethora of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to heritage palaces. To immerse oneself in the historical ambience of the city, staying at one of the palace hotels is highly recommended. These accommodations offer a glimpse into the regal lifestyle of the past, albeit at a higher price point.
Places to visit:
- City Palace: The heart of Udaipur’s heritage, the City Palace offers a captivating journey through history. Divided into three parts, it showcases the opulence of the Maharajas, houses a museum rich in artefacts, and boasts a reserved hotel area. Don’t miss the enchanting laser show in the evening, which sheds light on the city’s glorious past. You can see the Taj Palace from the City Palace. I recommend hiring registered guides from the City Palace, which typically costs around 500 to 600 rupees, to avoid being misled by fake guides.
- Jagdish Temple: Adjacent to the City Palace, Jagdish Temple is a spiritual oasis offering serene moments amidst intricate architecture. After leaving the city palace, I visited the Jagdish temple nearby. It’s the only place I recommend. Witnessing the evening ‘aarti’ here is a soul-stirring experience not to be missed. Leave the city palace by 6-7 p.m. to catch the serene arti at Jagdish Temple later.
- Ganghor ghat: Near the temple, there are markets offering diverse Udaipur delicacies. Enjoy a walk at Ganghor Ghat and feel the breeze. On the other side, there are luxury hotels, but I suggest staying in a palace to truly experience Udaipur’s historical vibe.
- Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace: I visited Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace, where the king and his wife used to stay in the rainy season to enjoy the weather. They had a large tank to store rainwater. It’s situated at a height, so only vehicles or hired jeeps can go there.
- Sahelion Ki Bari: Next, I visited Sahelion Ki Bari, a botanical garden in Udaipur. It’s filled with various plants and flowers. About 1.5 hours is enough time to explore it.
- Fatehsagar Lake: Enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the serene waters, like Mumbai’s Marine Drive, offering moments of blissful relaxation.
Hidden Gem Nearby Udaipur:
- Explore the ancient forts of Kumbhalgarh and Chittorgarh.
- Marvel at the intricate architecture of Ranakpur Temple.
- Seek blessings at the revered Shrinath Temple. This temple is located before Delhi.
Best Food to Try:
Indulge in delicious food found in the local markets, offering a tantalising array of flavours and aromas. Don’t miss out on trying the traditional Rajasthani thali and Sukhadia Circle, where you will find many food trucks that serve affordable meals.
Necessary things to pack:
- Pack light, breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen.
- Carry a high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to shield your eyes from the sun.
- Keep a water bottle with you for all-day hydration, along with some snacks.
Tips for Travellers:
- While exploring attractions like the City Palace, opt for registered guides to ensure an authentic and enriching experience while avoiding the pitfalls of misinformation.
- Plan your visits to popular attractions like the Jagdish Temple and Sahelion Ki Bari during the early morning or late evening to avoid crowds and savour the peace of these sites.
- While exploring Udaipur, consider hiring a local taxi or autorickshaw for convenient travel within the city.
The best time to visit Udaipur and Kumbhalgarh
Winter (October to February) is the best time to visit Udaipur and Kumbhalgarh. The weather is pleasant for sightseeing, and you have a high chance of spotting wild animals in the wildlife sanctuary.
Start on a journey of discovery and enchantment as you explore the rich heritage of Udaipur and Kumbhalgarh, immersing yourself in the timeless traditional beauty of Rajasthan.
