On film at Lake Pichola
A gentle guide to the City of Lakes.
Recently on a trip to Jaipur for work, sourcing, meeting with vendors, and collaborating with artisans, I decided to take a few days off to explore Udaipur. The last time I visited Udaipur was in 2017 with my best friend, and it was only the second city I'd ever experienced in India, so I was really excited to return and see how it had evolved.
Udaipur is absolutely gorgeous. It's filled with incredible havelis—traditional townhouses that often have cultural significance, many of which have been lovingly converted into guesthouses for travellers.
There are several lakes throughout the city, the main one being Lake Pichola, and because of this watery presence, the energy is naturally slower. The pace of life seems to flow like the lakes themselves, and that beautifully gentle, flowing energy takes over completely. Which was exactly what I needed after some busy, intense days in Jaipur.
So here's my gentle guide to a few days of slow travel in Udaipur, in case you ever find yourself in this magical city and want to experience it in a softer, more spacious way.
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What to See
Lake Pichola
The heart of Udaipur, this stunning lake deserves to be experienced slowly. Find a quiet spot along the water and just sit—watch the light shift throughout the day, the way it dances on the surface. The sunsets here are something else entirely, painting the sky in the most beautiful hues that mirror perfectly on the still water.
Jag Mandir and Lake Palace
These island palaces floating on Lake Pichola feel like something out of a dream. I recommend booking a sunset boat ride to see them both bathed in that golden hour light—it's pure magic.
Saheliyon-ki-Bari
This beautiful garden sanctuary was originally created as a peaceful retreat for the palace women, and you can feel that gentle, nurturing energy the moment you walk in. It's perfect for slow morning wanderings among the fragrant flowers, elegant marble elephants, and the most serene lotus pool.
Sacred Spaces
There's something deeply moving about Udaipur's ancient temples—they hold this quiet power that invites you to pause and reflect. I loved visiting Jagdish Temple in the soft morning light, and if you have time, Eklingji Temple just outside the city.
Where to Shop
Hathi Pol Bazaar / Bada Bazaar
A maze of narrow lanes filled with miniature paintings, traditional crafts, and textiles. I loved getting lost here and discovering tiny shops tucked away in unexpected corners. If you are anything like me watching the artisans work is mesmerising.
Shilpgram
This rural arts and crafts complex feels like stepping into a living museum of Rajasthani culture. Local artisans demonstrate traditional techniques like block printing and pottery, and you can buy directly from the makers. It's about 3km from the city center but worth the trip for authentic, ethically-sourced pieces.
Small Boutiques Around the Old City
Local textile workshops - Several studios around the Clock Tower is the centre of udaipur offer tie-dye and block printing workshops where you can learn the techniques and create your own pieces which is really a fun and unique experience.
Antique shops near Jagdish Temple - Perfect for finding vintage brass items, old textiles, and curiosities with real character and history.
Where to Eat
Ambrai Restaurant
Lakeside dining with the City Palace as your backdrop, a perfect spot for an sunset drink or dinner with the dreamy atmosphere and incredible views.
Millets of Mewar
With a focus on healthy, locally-sourced ingredients. It is perfect when you need something nourishing but light.
Jagat Niwas Palace Rooftop
Traditional Rajasthani thali with stunning lake views, especially magical at sunset. I found myself lingering long after my meal just watching the city transition to night.
Chai by the Ghats
I found this tiny stall overlooking the ghats where a local uncle makes the most incredible masala chai. One of those perfectly simple travel moments you never forget.
On film at Lake Pichola
And with all this comes also a gentle reminder...
To balance all the beauty, lakeside wanderings, and cultural richness - with stillness and rest.
Allow yourself quiet mornings by the water to journal and breathe. Let yourself linger over chai with lake views, rather than rushing between palaces and temples.
Pause by the ghats. Reflect as you watch the light change on the water. Give yourself time to absorb the gentle energy this city offers so freely.
Because the peaceful in-between moments by the lakes are just as meaningful as all the sights.