Udaipur has always been a land of the aristocrate, and blue bloods. It was a former capital of the Mewar Kingdom of Rajasthan and takes pride in its larger-than-life palaces and forts. Today the ‘city of lakes’, exudes romance by the Lake Pichola. Apart from its royal venues, lakes, and nearby attractions, the city lets tourists emerge in the regel opulence in one of the best hotels in Udaipur. There are numerous heritage hotels in the city, which were once the residence of the maharajas and later turned into hotels.
Best Time to Visit Udaipur
The western city of India features a tropical climate, with hot, cloudy and oppressive summers and cool winters. Summers are extreme here and so it is better to avoid traveling to Udaipur during summer season. The best time to visit Udaipur is between October to March, when the weather is comparatively cool. However, due to its pleasant climate during winter, the city receives the highest footfall of tourists. So, expect a little more crowd.
How to Reach Udaipur
Being one of the popular tourist spots in MP, Hanumantiya Tapu is well-accessible by road, air, and rail. MP’s popular city Indore to Hanumantiya distance is just 150 km.
By Air
If you are traveling from far, the best and fastest way to reach Udaipur is by flight. The nearest airport is Maharana Pratap Airport, which is well-connected by all major cities of India.
By Train
It takes approx 11 hours to reach Udaipur City Railway Station from New Delhi. There are a number of trains running from other Indian cities to Udaipur, which include Chetak Express, Rajdhani Express, and Mewar Superfast Express.
By Road
Several private and public-owned buses are available that connect Udaipur with nearby states. The road distance between Delhi and Udaipur is 665.5 km and it takes 12 hours to reach the destination.
Best Hotels in Udaipur
The hotels in Udaipur Rajasthan will spoil you for life with their world-class royal services, grand views, and lavish comforts. These exquisite hotels are known for offering an added touch of eliteness that you deserve on a vacation in the lands of Rajasthan. Moreover, the city boasts thick forests, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural history, which can be found in the several heritage hotels. So, if your idea of vacation in Rajasthan includes a royal treatment, don’t shy away from booking a heritage hotel in advance.
For your guidance, here we have jotted down some impressive and best hotels in Udaipur. Scroll down to know more.
Taj Lake Palace
Floating as a regal mirage on Lake Pichola, Hotel Lake Palace is an excellent choice for visitors, who are looking for a secluded vacation, away from the urban chaos. This former summer palace of the royal dynasty of Mewar was built in 1746, by Maharana Jagat Singh II. However, it was converted into a heritage hotel by Maharana Bhagwat Singh in 1963.
The architecture of the palace has a touch of Mughal and Mewari influence. It features 68 luxury suites and 18 grand suites with antique furnishings, beautifully carved wooden furniture and expensive silk fabrics. The intricate carvings on the wall, paintings, color, and the view of the lake from the window are enough to make your stay memorable. The private bathrooms come with a bathtub, Forest Essential toiletries, and shower.
Its elegant fine dining dinner-only restaurant Neel Kamal serves authentic flavors of the royal cuisine of Rajasthan, the North West frontier, and other Indian cuisines. And the seasonally open-air Bhairo is known for serving some delicious European delights. It is one of those rare 5 star hotels in Udaipur that focuses on offering a personalized royal experience to its guests. Spend your evening by enjoying a folk dance, cultural events, and folk musical concerts, which are organized by the hotels.
The Oberoi Udaivilas
Nestled on the bank of Lake Pichola, the Oberoi Udaivilas is known for its grand architecture. The palace hotel is spread across an area of 1,21,406 square meters of garden, with intricate interconnecting domes and corridors that reflect the layout of the city itself. Guests love this hotel for its superior accommodation, high-standard service, personally curated spa therapies, and fine dining experience. Each of its suites reflect the Mewar inspired elegant furnishings. The large windows offer an uninterrupted garden view.
The hotel was built on the hunting ground of the maharana of Mewar, which was around 200 year old. You would be amazed to know that 40 percent of the area is a designated wildlife sanctuary. The hotel provides a guided tour to those guests who are interested in exploring the nearby locations.
For a more personalized experience, take a shikara ride on Lake Pichola with wine and canape. For an authentic Rajasthani dinner, head to Udai Mahal, the in-house restaurant. Whereas, Surya Mahal serves western cuisine. Furthermore, the hotel organizes traditional folk music and dance of Rajasthan for its guests to promote the local culture.
The Leela Palace
If royal opulence is what you are looking for during your Udaipur vacation, what could be more perfect than the Leela Palace. It is known for its unparalleled grandeur, elegant furnishings, and uninterrupted views of the lake. The interior reflects traditional artisanal crafts that are inspired by the rich cultural heritage of the land. Visitors consider this as one of the best hotels in Udaipur, as it promises a tranquil and undisturbed escape.
Backed by the Aravali Hills, overlooking the splendor of Lake Pichola, the Leela Palace is known for offering a more serene atmosphere. In addition, it houses grande heritage suites, which feature all the luxuries and comforts you could ever ask for. The sophisticated and contemporary interiors are decorated with traditional Rajasthani arts and crafts that promote the local artisans. Each room comes with a flat tv and iPod dock. The marble bathrooms have a large bathtub and premium toiletries. There is a large outdoor pool with an attached hot tub, which is surrounded by loungers.
For a royal dining experience, visit Sheesh Mahal. This open-air restaurant, overlooking the lake, can elevate your fine-dining experience to a whole new level. To relish western flavors, the Leela Palace welcomes you to The Dining Room that brings an eclectic blend of flavors from different corners of the world. If a sip of the finest wine in the house is what you are looking for to brighten up your mood on a rainy evening, head to The Library Bar. Discover the finest selection of whiskeys and liquors.
Aurika- Luxury by Lemon Tree Hotels
Sitting atop its own hill like a crown, Aurika, Luxury by Lemon Tree Hotels is one of the best hotels in Udaipur near lake. This palatial 5-star property nestled amidst tropical foliage, is known for greeting its guests with utmost elegance. This famed hotel offers ultimate comfort and luxury to its guests. Guests can take a dip at their outdoor pool or relax at the shared lounge. The grand courtyard, terraced gardens, glittering interiors, and magnificent architecture make it no less than a palace.
The hotel features 139 aesthetically designed suites, dotted with modern amenities, spacious bathrooms, high-tech entertainment platform, and uninterrupted views of the lake. It has a ballroom, conference room, exclusive venues for private dining experience, and multiple outdoor terraces.
With exquisite multi-cuisine restaurants, your dining experience in Aurika’s in-house restaurant will be something you are going to cherish forever. It also provides a personalized in-room dining that offers eclectic options to suit every palate. However, if you want to socialize, head to its in-house restaurant Mirasa, which features a thoughtfully crafted menu. Each of its dishes are made with locally sourced ingredients. Apart from the regional cuisine, you can sample the flavors from different corners of the world.
Amet Haveli
Its history dates back to the reign of Maharaja Jagat Singh, who built this palace in 1734. This bijou gem of a palace is an insignia of the golden period of the Mewar kingdom, and has historic significance. This 250-year-old haveli showcases extensive stonework and the views go beyond the picturesque lakes. Furthermore, it also houses Mughal gardens, which were influenced by the gardens of the Agra Fort. It also has a small pool near the courtyard.
Its 20 plush suites come with private plunge pools, high-tech facilities, and modern amenities. These spacious suites with balconies are a great spot to admire the ethereal lake views. Each room of this luxurious retreat promises a comfortable and luxurious stay. The interior represents the magnificent artworks of the Rajput era.
The Ambrai Restaurant of Amet Haveli is one of the most popular restaurants, loved by both locals and foreigners. The creatively crafted menu features regional as well as global cuisine. But you would love to tantalize your taste buds with the chef’s best Rajasthani cuisine, which is rich in flavor and aroma.
Final Takeaway
Being one of the most popular tourist destinations, the city is dotted with some of the best hotels in Udaipur, which once served as a palace or mansion by the royals of the Mewars. Exploring Udaipur is no less than a royal vacation demanding royal treatment. So why not make your stay royal? Stay in one of these heritage hotels and experience Rajsthani hospitality.
