There are some journeys that leave a lasting impression on one even after they get back home. That’s exactly what happened to me in Udaipur. This place was called by many names, like the City of Lakes, Venice of the East, and the most romantic city in Rajasthan. And frankly speaking, I took it all as mere hype until I actually visited there. The play of light on the waters, the serene mornings, and the lanes of the old town were full of colours and melodies.

There’s a famous line by Rumi that kept coming to mind during my trip:

“Travel brings power and love back into your life.”

I didn’t understand it fully until Udaipur slowed me down in the best possible way.

It’s only been two days, and I decided to keep it simple. But then, what I hadn’t considered was the effect this place would have on my pace. Instead, I lingered around the ghats longer than intended, meandered around the palaces without a care for the clock, and pursued every sunset simply because it seemed more beautiful than the previous one.

If a fast but fulfilling trip to Udaipur sounds like something up your alley, or if you’re simply curious to see a different side of Udaipur beyond travel guides and brochures, then you’ve come to the right place. From my two-day tour experience to some lesser-known moments, I’ve put it all here for you.

Day 1: Palaces, Old Lanes, and That First Golden Sunset

Morning at City Palace

My arrival at the City Palace was ahead of schedule due to the late arrival of the paratha at the hotel I was staying at. However, things couldn’t have been better for me. The City Palace is most beautiful when the rays of the sun are not too harsh. Everything seems grander in scale, more brilliant, and more magnificent.

It takes one stroll through its courtyards, randomly pausing at windows just to admire the views outside. For those who love photography, the place offers an ideal playground. For those who love history, the tour will make them happy. Just do things at your own pace.

Wandering the Old City

It is like shifting gears when walking outside the royal palace into the old city. All of a sudden, your path is filled with small and brightly painted walls of Rajasthani paintings, and suddenly, a shop owner is asking you to have a look at the painted journals.

I did not use the Google map to navigate to reach somewhere else; I just let myself be guided by the lanes and finally reached Jheel Cafe for lunch. A simple sandwich and cold coffee, sitting right above water with birds passing above, tastes a thousand times more delicious.

Afternoon Boat Ride on Lake Pichola

But then there would be missing out on what the city offers best. The trip was made in a shared boat from the jetty near the City Palace. The air was cool, the water was still, and the view was like a dream of Jag Mandir and Lake Palace.

Being on a boat when the sun starts setting can make one feel that the entire world seems to slow down along with you.

Sunset at Ambrai Ghat

My journey to Ambrai Ghat marked the end of my first day’s adventure. Trust me; I have been seated in some very tranquil places, but this has to be amongst the best of all times. The palace in the distance shone brightly past sundown as the water reflected the light like tiny lamps.

Some people conversed, clicked photographs, or simply relaxed. It gave me immense pleasure to see no one in a rush. Dinner at Ambrai Restaurant was the perfect way to end Day 1.

Day 2: Gardens, Temples, Street Food, and a Sunset You Should Not Miss

Quiet Morning at Saheliyon Ki Bari

On day two, I wanted a peaceful start, so I headed to Saheliyon Ki Bari. The fountains, the trees, the stone architecture – everything felt soothing. It is a small place, but it sets the tone for a calm morning.

If day one was about grandeur, day two began with simplicity.

A Stop at Jagdish Temple

Jagdish Temple is in the middle of the old city, so expect some bustle. But inside the temple, everything slows down. The carvings are detailed, and the chants echo gently. I sat on the steps for a bit, watching life pass by. It reminded me how Indian cities are always a mix of calm and chaos living together.

Street Food at Bapu Bazaar

If you love food, go to Bapu Bazaar hungry. This place is packed with vendors selling kachori, mirch vada, chaat, and more. I went straight for the mirchi vada, and it did not disappoint.

I also picked up a few souvenirs. Nothing fancy. Just small things to remember the trip by.

Sunset at Sajjangarh, the Monsoon Palace

If Ambrai Ghat is tranquil, then Sajjangarh is magnificent. There is much scenery while driving up the hill, but the view from the top is different altogether. It seems like the sky itself is opening up for your pleasure.

People start gathering for sunset long before it occurs, so be there at least an hour before. I found a quiet spot, sat back, and watched the sky transform from golden to orange to lilac.

I felt like I had left my phone notifications behind. The dinner at 1559 AD capped off the experience.

Where I Stayed

I picked a stay in the old city because I wanted everything to be walkable. It also meant waking up to lake views every morning. A few options for different budgets:

Luxury: The Leela Palace, Taj Lake Palace
Mid-Range: Jagat Niwas Palace, Udai Kothi
Budget: Zostel, Moustache Hostel, local guesthouses

Two days in Udaipur taught me something simple. You don’t always need a long trip to feel refreshed. Sometimes, a calm city, a couple of sunsets, and a slow walk through old streets are enough.

If you want a break that feels warm, peaceful, and easy on the soul, Udaipur is worth every minute.