4-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Udaipur, India
Friday, November 3, 2023: Exploring Udaipur City
In the morning, start your trip by visiting the magnificent City Palace, showcasing a fusion of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. Take in the panoramic views of Lake Pichola from its terraces. In the afternoon, head to Jagdish Temple, a beautiful Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Afterward, take a boat ride on Lake Pichola to enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake and catch glimpses of the iconic Lake Palace. In the evening, stroll around the vibrant markets of Udaipur, such as Bada Bazaar and Hathi Pol, where you can shop for handicrafts and local souvenirs.
City Palace: Estimated Cost: INR 300, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Lake Pichola boat ride: Estimated Cost: INR 400, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Bada Bazaar and Hathi Pol: Estimated Cost: Varies (Budget-friendly), Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Millets of Mewar, a cozy cafe offering a variety of healthy and organic options. Try their signature millet pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Savor a traditional Rajasthani Thali for lunch at Natraj Dining Hall, a popular vegetarian restaurant known for its authentic flavors. Enjoy the unlimited servings of dal, bati, churma, and a variety of side dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Indulge in a fine dining experience at Ambrai Restaurant, located on the banks of Lake Pichola. Enjoy panoramic views of the City Palace while savoring delectable Indian cuisine. Don't miss their speciality, Laal Maas. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Saturday, November 4, 2023: Exploring Historical Gems
Start your morning with a visit to the iconic Jain Temple, also known as Shri Ekling Ji Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Afterward, head towards Sajjangarh Palace, also known as the Monsoon Palace, situated on a hilltop offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Saheliyon-ki-Bari, a serene garden adorned with fountains, kiosks, marble elephants, and a delightful lotus pool. In the evening, explore the vintage and antique markets of Udaipur, such as Shilpgram and Rajasthali, to find unique treasures.
Jain Temple (Shri Ekling Ji Temple): Estimated Cost: Free (Donations appreciated), Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Saheliyon-ki-Bari: Estimated Cost: INR 10, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Shilpgram and Rajasthali markets: Estimated Cost: Varies (Budget-friendly), Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, start your day at Cafe Satori, a cozy cafe located near the Jain Temple. Enjoy a variety of freshly brewed coffees, teas, and delicious breakfast options such as pancakes, omelettes, and Indian breakfast platters. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Millets of Mewar, a vegetarian restaurant that offers healthy and flavorful dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Try their thali, which includes a variety of Rajasthani dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at Ambrai Restaurant, located near Lake Pichola, offering a stunning view of the City Palace. Indulge in a range of Indian and international dishes crafted with utmost care. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Sunday, November 5, 2023: Excursion to Chittorgarh
Embark on a day trip to the historic city of Chittorgarh, located approximately 120 kilometers from Udaipur. In the morning, explore the massive Chittorgarh Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is known for its stunning architecture and rich history. Visit popular attractions within the fort, such as the Vijay Stambh (Victory Tower) and Kirti Stambh (Tower of Fame). In the afternoon, visit the serene Padmini Palace and the beautiful Rana Kumbha Palace. Finally, end your day with a visit to the nearby Gaumukh Reservoir, an artificial water body surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Take a late-evening journey back to Udaipur.
Chittorgarh Fort: Estimated Cost: INR 50, Time Spent: 4-5 hours
Padmini Palace: Estimated Cost: INR 10, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Gaumukh Reservoir: Estimated Cost: INR 10, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Millets of Mewar - Enjoy a healthy and nourishing breakfast at Millets of Mewar, offering a variety of millet-based dishes and traditional Rajasthani specialties. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Lunch: Natraj Dining Hall - Relish a flavorful vegetarian thali at Natraj Dining Hall, known for its authentic Rajasthani cuisine and generous portions. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Dinner: Upre - Indulge in a royal dining experience at Upre, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the city. Treat yourself to delectable Indian and international dishes along with a wide selection of beverages. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Monday, November 6, 2023: Cultural Exploration
On your final day, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Udaipur. Start your morning by visiting the Ahar Cenotaphs, a royal cremation ground of the Mewar dynasty. Explore the intricate architecture and pay homage to the past rulers. In the afternoon, make your way to Bagore Ki Haveli, a historic mansion turned museum showcasing Rajput artifacts, cultural displays, and a mesmerizing puppet show. End your Udaipur journey with a cultural evening at the enchanting Dharohar Folk Dance Show, where you can witness live performances showcasing traditional Rajasthani music and dance forms.
Ahar Cenotaphs: Estimated Cost: INR 10, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Bagore Ki Haveli: Estimated Cost: INR 100, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Dharohar Folk Dance Show: Estimated Cost: INR 90, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Millets of Mewar, a cozy cafe offering healthy and delicious options like millet bowls and freshly brewed coffee. A meal here will cost you around 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try the flavorsome Rajasthani thali at Santosh Bhojnalaya. This local eatery serves an array of traditional dishes at affordable prices, with a meal costing approximately 150 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Savage Garden Restaurant, a rooftop eatery with stunning views of Udaipur's cityscape. Indulge in their delectable Indian and global cuisine while enjoying the lively atmosphere. An average meal here will cost you around 500 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a shoestring budget traveler looking for off the beaten path attractions, head to Shilpgram, a rural arts and crafts complex located around 3 kilometers west of Udaipur. This living museum showcases the vibrant rural culture of Rajasthan through traditional arts, crafts, and folk performances. Additionally, explore the local markets surrounding Udaipur, such as Bapu Bazaar and Shastri Circle, where you can find budget-friendly clothing, handicrafts, and street food. These hidden gems provide an authentic experience and are loved by locals and travelers alike.