Udaipur One Day Tour by Car

Previous Next

Duration: Full Day (8–10 hours)
Destination: Udaipur (City of Lakes)

About Udaipur

Udaipur, often called the “City of Lakes,” is one of India’s most romantic destinations, blending royal heritage with natural beauty. Surrounded by the Aravalli Hills, it is home to sparkling lakes, grand palaces, ornate temples, bustling bazaars, and lush gardens. Founded in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II, Udaipur carries centuries of Rajput history, art, and tradition. Its serene lakeside setting has also earned it the nickname “Venice of the East.”

A one-day Udaipur sightseeing tour by private car allows you to explore the essence of this charming city in comfort and style. From the imposing City Palace to tranquil Lake Pichola, from vibrant temples to cultural performances, Udaipur offers unforgettable memories. This itinerary is ideal for first-time visitors, families, couples, and travelers who wish to soak in the royal grandeur, spirituality, and cultural vibrance of Rajasthan in just a day.

Tour Overview

This private guided tour is designed to cover Udaipur’s most famous landmarks while also offering glimpses into daily life and culture. Start the day at the iconic City Palace, one of Rajasthan’s largest palace complexes. Walk to Jagdish Temple to admire its stunning architecture. Relax in the royal gardens of Saheliyon Ki Bari before enjoying a lakeside lunch. In the afternoon, drive around Fateh Sagar Lake, ascend to Sajjangarh (Monsoon Palace) for panoramic views, and conclude the day with a boat ride on Lake Pichola. As evening falls, step into Bagore Ki Haveli for its cultural museum and folk dance performance.

This tour is customizable — you can adjust timings, add experiences such as cooking classes or shopping tours, or spend more time at places you love. Your private chauffeur ensures a seamless and stress-free journey throughout.

Tour Highlights

• Explore the majestic City Palace, overlooking Lake Pichola.
• Seek blessings at the historic Jagdish Temple with its ornate carvings.
• Stroll through the serene gardens of Saheliyon Ki Bari.
• Enjoy breathtaking views from Sajjangarh (Monsoon Palace).
• Take a scenic boat ride on Lake Pichola and admire palaces on the water.
• Visit Bagore Ki Haveli and experience the vibrant Dharohar Dance Show.
• Comfortable private car transfers with hotel pickup and drop.

One Day Udaipur Sightseeing Tour Itinerary (By Car)

8:30 AM – Pickup from Hotel
Your driver will meet you at your hotel or preferred location in Udaipur. Begin the day with a comfortable ride in a private air-conditioned car. The journey itself is scenic, with glimpses of narrow alleys, colorful markets, and the city’s lakeside charm.

9:00 AM – City Palace Udaipur
Start your tour at the magnificent City Palace, a vast complex built over centuries by successive rulers of the Mewar dynasty. Overlooking Lake Pichola, the palace combines Rajput and Mughal styles with European touches. Inside, marvel at courtyards, balconies, mirrored halls, peacock mosaics, and royal galleries filled with artifacts. The palace museum narrates tales of valor, art, and lifestyle of the Sisodia dynasty. From the terraces, enjoy sweeping views of Lake Pichola dotted with islands. City Palace sets the perfect tone for your Udaipur exploration.

11:00 AM – Jagdish Temple
Just a short walk from City Palace, the Jagdish Temple stands as a fine example of Indo-Aryan architecture. Built in 1651, the temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Its towering shikhara (spire) is visible from afar, and its stone carvings depict celestial beings, dancers, and mythological scenes. The temple courtyard buzzes with devotees and priests chanting hymns. Whether spiritual or curious, visitors find the energy uplifting. Remember to cover your shoulders and knees, and observe respectfully during rituals.

12:00 PM – Saheliyon Ki Bari
Next, visit Saheliyon Ki Bari, or the “Garden of Maidens,” created for the queen and her attendants. This peaceful retreat is adorned with marble fountains, lotus pools, and shaded pavilions. Built as a gift of leisure, it represents royal life’s softer side — music, poetry, and relaxation. Today, it remains a favorite spot for travelers to unwind and take photographs. The garden’s design reflects an eco-friendly approach to water management, channeling mountain streams into fountains without pumps — a remarkable feat of engineering.

1:00 PM – Lunch Break
Take a break at a recommended local restaurant by Lake Pichola or Fateh Sagar. Enjoy authentic Rajasthani flavors like Dal Baati Churma, Gatte ki Sabzi, Ker Sangri, and spicy Laal Maas. Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available. Dining by the lake offers a serene view, enhancing the culinary experience. Ethical travelers can choose restaurants that support local farmers and use eco-friendly practices. A leisurely lunch gives you energy for the second half of the tour.

2:30 PM – Fateh Sagar Lake
After lunch, drive to Fateh Sagar Lake, an artificial lake built in the 17th century. It is surrounded by the Aravalli Hills and is a popular leisure spot for locals. The lake features three islands, including Nehru Park, which has gardens and a small café. Enjoy a short lakeside walk, interact with locals, and capture the calm beauty of water against hills. Fateh Sagar is less crowded than Lake Pichola, making it ideal for those who enjoy peaceful landscapes.

3:30 PM – Sajjangarh (Monsoon Palace)
Drive up to Sajjangarh, perched on a hilltop overlooking the city. Built by Maharana Sajjan Singh, the palace was intended as an astronomical center but is now known for its panoramic views. From here, see Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar, and the Aravalli range stretching into the horizon. The palace is especially beautiful at sunset, when the golden light bathes Udaipur in warmth. It is also part of a wildlife sanctuary, so keep an eye out for peacocks and langurs during the drive. Carry water and a light scarf as it can be breezy.

5:00 PM – Lake Pichola Boat Ride
Return to the heart of Udaipur for a boat ride on Lake Pichola. Glide over calm waters as you pass iconic landmarks such as Jag Mandir, Mohan Mandir, and the world-famous Taj Lake Palace. As the sun sets, the lake mirrors the glowing palaces, creating postcard-perfect scenes. This boat ride is one of Udaipur’s highlights and offers photographers breathtaking opportunities. It’s also a peaceful way to rest after a day of sightseeing.

6:30 PM – Bagore Ki Haveli & Cultural Show
Conclude the day with a visit to Bagore Ki Haveli, a historic mansion on the Gangaur Ghat. Converted into a museum, it showcases traditional costumes, jewelry, puppets, and artifacts from royal households. Stay back for the Dharohar Dance Show — an hour of vibrant folk performances including Rajasthani dances, music, and puppetry. The show takes place in the haveli’s courtyard, creating an intimate cultural experience that resonates with both locals and travelers. It’s the perfect finale to your Udaipur journey.

8:00 PM – Return to Hotel
After the cultural show, your driver will drop you back at your hotel or chosen location in Udaipur. The day ends with the city lights reflecting on the lakes, leaving you with memories of royal grandeur and cultural immersion.

Tour Includes

• Hotel pickup & drop within Udaipur city
• Private chauffeur-driven A/C car
• Fuel, parking, tolls
• Bottled water during transfers
• Professional local guide (optional, on request)
• All applicable taxes (GST)

Tour Excludes

• Entry fees to monuments, boat rides, cultural shows
• Meals, drinks unless specified
• Tips, personal expenses, shopping
• Optional activities and extensions

Practical Information & Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit: October to March offers the most pleasant climate. Winter mornings and evenings are cool, while daytime is perfect for sightseeing. Summers (April–June) are hot — plan early morning and late afternoon visits to avoid heat. Monsoon (July–September) brings lush greenery but occasional heavy rains.

What to Carry: Comfortable walking shoes, light cotton clothes, sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are essential. Carry a scarf for temples and a jacket for hilltop areas during winter. Don’t forget a camera or smartphone with extra battery for capturing the lakes and palaces.

Health & Safety: Stay hydrated with bottled or filtered water. If you have dietary restrictions, inform your guide or restaurant in advance. Elderly travelers may need assistance at monuments with steps; your chauffeur can adjust routes for easier access. Medical shops and hospitals are widely available in the city.

Responsible Travel: Respect local customs by dressing modestly at temples, removing shoes before entry, and avoiding loud behavior in sacred spaces. Support artisans by purchasing handicrafts directly from local markets instead of mass-produced souvenirs. Dispose of waste responsibly, and avoid single-use plastics near lakes.

Accessibility: While some heritage sites have steps and uneven surfaces, many attractions can still be enjoyed with minimal walking. With advance notice, we can arrange a slower-paced itinerary, easy access points, and rest breaks for senior travelers or those with mobility needs.

Local Culture & Cuisine

Udaipur is a hub for Rajasthani culture — from traditional puppet shows to miniature paintings and silver jewelry. Shopping in local bazaars like Hathi Pol and Bada Bazaar offers unique keepsakes. The cuisine here is equally delightful: try Dal Baati Churma, Ker Sangri, Papad ki Sabzi, and sweets like Malpua. Dining by the lakeside at night is a memorable experience — lanterns reflecting on the water while musicians play traditional tunes.

Suggested Packing List

• Light cotton clothes (summer) or layers (winter evenings)
• Comfortable walking shoes or sandals
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
• Reusable water bottle
• Camera/phone with power bank
• Scarf or shawl for temple visits

Udaipur Sightseeing Tour – FAQs

1. How long does the Udaipur one-day tour last?
Typically 8–10 hours, covering major palaces, gardens, temples, lakes, and evening cultural shows.

2. Can I customize the tour?
Yes. You can include shopping, workshops, cooking classes, or photography-focused itineraries. The schedule is flexible based on your interests.

3. What is the best season to visit?
October–March is most comfortable. Monsoons (July–September) are scenic but may bring rain showers. Summers are hot but manageable with early starts.

4. Is the Lake Pichola boat ride included?
Boat rides are optional and chargeable separately but highly recommended for stunning views of palaces on water.

5. Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, the itinerary is suitable for families, children, and seniors. It balances sightseeing with relaxing moments and includes cultural activities that all ages enjoy.

6. How can I travel responsibly in Udaipur?
Respect heritage sites, support local artisans, avoid littering, use reusable bottles, and choose eco-conscious restaurants. Small mindful actions ensure Udaipur’s beauty lasts for future generations.

Note: Timings are approximate and may vary based on traffic, local schedules, or traveler preferences. This itinerary is flexible and can be adjusted for comfort, accessibility, and interests. Ethical travel practices are encouraged — respect culture, support communities, and leave only footprints behind.