Udaipur, often called the "City of Lakes" and the "Venice of the East," is known for its majestic palaces, stunning lakes, and rich cultural heritage. This enchanting city in Rajasthan has always been a popular destination for tourists worldwide. Some time back, it gained even more attention when Bollywood actress Parineeti Chopra and politician Raghav Chadha chose Udaipur as the backdrop for their dreamy wedding. While the celebrity couple's celebration was nothing short of spectacular, several lesser-known places in Udaipur are equally enchanting and worth exploring.
Chetak Circle is a bustling shopping destination in Udaipur that offers a wide variety of souvenirs for tourists to take home as memories from their trip to the City of Lakes. Among the many options available, the colorful Rajasthani dancing puppets stand out as a must-have item. With a vast selection to choose from, you will undoubtedly find it challenging to select just a couple of them. In addition to the puppets, you can also buy traditional lanterns, wall decorations, painted wooden boxes, decorative pen stands, beautiful pottery, silver jewelry, miniature paintings, hand-stitched paper, and many other interesting items.
Timing: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Address: Chetak Circle, Chamanpura, Udaipur, Rajasthan
A far cry from the exotic palaces and luxurious resorts of Udaipur, Shilpgram is a heritage arts and crafts complex spread across 70 acres of land, with the breathtaking Aravali Mountains forming the backdrop. What makes this place unique is that it provides visitors with a wonderful opportunity to experience the lifestyle and culture of the tribal and folk people of the region. The complex comprises traditional Rajasthani huts, complete with household items of daily use, such as fabrics, metal and wooden articles, terracotta, and other decorative items. If you are keen to learn about the rural arts and crafts of Rajasthan, there is no better place than Shilpgram to do so.
Timings: 11:00 AM to 06:00 PM
Address: JM66+9JP, Shilpgram, Udaipur, Rajasthan
Ambrai Ghat, also known as Manjhi Ghat, may not be considered as an offbeat destination in Udaipur, but there's a reason why it deserves a spot on our list. Situated on the waterfront of the Pichola Lake, this ghat offers magnificent views of the City Palace. Unfortunately, not many tourists explore this attraction after sunset. However, visiting Ambrai Ghat at night is a must-do experience in Udaipur. The ghat's beauty combined with its surroundings in the serene night ambiance is sure to leave a lasting impression on your mind, long after you bid farewell to the city of Udaipur.
Timings: 24-hours
Address: Chandpole Maji Ka Mandir corner of Lake Pichola, Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan
Badi Lake may not be a top attraction on your Udaipur travel itinerary, but that doesn't mean this water body isn't worth visiting. It is an artificial freshwater lake constructed by Maharana Raj Singh I as a response to a famine. The lake was named Jiyan Sagar to honor Jana Devi, the mother of the Maharana. The lake features three stunningly designed pavilions and spans an area of 155 sq. km with an embankment of 180 m. You can easily add it to your list of places to visit in Udaipur in one day.
Timings: 08:00 AM to 06:30 PM
At the Vintage Car Museum, you can catch a glimpse of the vintage cars that once carried the royalties during the bygone era. The museum boasts an impressive collection of cars, each of which is more than 70 years old, yet maintained in impeccable condition. The Mewar State Motor Garage houses this vintage collection in a large courtyard. If you are a car enthusiast or have an interest in vintage items, this place is a must-visit destination for you.
Timings: 09:00 AM to 09:00 PM
Address: Gulab Bagh Rd, near by The Garden Hotel, Old City, Shakti Nagar, Udaipur, Rajasthan
This destination may be low-key, but it boasts of stunning scenic beauty. Maharana Bhagwat Singh Mewar built the memorial in honour of the legendary Rajput warrior, Maharana Pratap. The memorial showcases the warrior on his equally legendary and loyal horse, Chetak. It is located on the Moti Margi, also known as the Pearl Hill, and offers a breathtaking view of the Fateh Sagar Lake. Don't forget to bring your camera along as it is an excellent spot to test your photography skills.
Timings: 08:00 AM to 08:00 PM
Address: Fateh Sagar Rd, Malla Talai, Udaipur, Rajasthan
