Planning three days in Udaipur?

Good decision.

While you could tick off the main sights in 48 hours, Udaipur rewards a slower pace. It’s a city of light, water and atmosphere — not just monuments.

This itinerary balances the grand (palaces and temples) with the human (markets, craft workshops, street food and sunset views).

Day 1 – Palaces, Temples & Lake Pichola

Morning: Explore City Palace

Start early before the crowds and heat build.

Enter through Badi Pol and allow at least 2–3 hours. Don’t try to see everything — focus on what interests you most. The views over Lake Pichola are reason enough to visit.

If weddings are taking place (as happened during my visit!), parts of the courtyard may be closed — so flexibility is key.

Late Morning: Visit Jagdish Temple

Just outside the palace, this 17th-century temple is one of the most impressive in northern India. Spend time studying the intricate carvings — they’re extraordinary.

Lunch: Rooftop Restaurant Overlooking Lake Pichola

Choose one of the many rooftop cafés in the old city and enjoy lunch with a view. Even something simple feels special when the lake shimmers below you.

Afternoon: Wander the Ghats & Old City

Spend the afternoon exploring the ghats.

Watch pre-wedding photo shoots, families feeding pigeons, and boats gliding out onto the lake. Get lost in the old city’s lanes — this is where Udaipur feels most alive.

Evening: Folk Dancing at Bagore Ki Haveli

Book ahead for the 6pm folk dance show — it often sells out. It’s lively, colourful and a fun introduction to Rajasthani culture.

Day 2 – Lakes, Hills & Gardens

Early Morning: Walk Around Fateh Sagar Lake

Go early for peace and soft light. This is where locals come to walk, jog and meet friends.

Mid-Morning: Cable Car to Karni Mata Temple

The cable car ride is short but offers spectacular 360° views over Udaipur’s lakes and hills.

Late Morning: Saheliyon Ki Bari

A gentler stop — fountains, lawns and shaded benches. A good place to slow down.

Afternoon Option A: Craft Workshop

Udaipur is known for miniature painting, pottery, block printing and tie-dye. Booking a hands-on workshop adds depth to your visit and connects you to local skills.

Afternoon Option B: Vintage and Classic Car Collection Museum

If you enjoy classic cars (or a nostalgic moment), this makes an easy stop.

Sunset: Sajjangarh Palace

Head up to the Monsoon Palace for panoramic views across the Aravalli Hills and lakes. Golden hour here is unforgettable.

Day 3 – Markets, Food & Slower Discoveries

Morning: Heritage Walk

Join a guided walk to explore:

• Copper workshops

• Pottery studios

• Fruit and vegetable markets

• Mustard oil presses

• Sweet shops and spice stalls

This is everyday Udaipur — and just as important as the palaces.

Midday: Try Udaipur’s Famous Kachori

Find a busy street stall and order a hot kachori with chutney. Cheap, filling and delicious.

Afternoon: Visit Ahar Cenotaphs

A more reflective stop. While the royal enclosure is closed, parts of the complex are accessible and offer insight into Mewar’s layered history.

Optional: Ferry to Nehru Park

If you’re curious, take the boat across to this island garden. It’s popular for photos, though it can be busy.

Evening: Cooking Class

One of the best ways to end your three days in Udaipur is in a kitchen.

Learn to make masala chai, poha or dal baati churma — and sit down to eat what you’ve prepared. Travel tastes better when you’ve stirred the pot yourself.

Is Three Days in Udaipur Enough?

Three days in Udaipur gives you balance.

You’ll see the highlights — City Palace, the lakes, the gardens — but you’ll also have time to sit, wander and observe.

And that’s when Udaipur truly reveals itself.

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