Table of Contents
Introduction
Udaipur Travel guide on a Budget Rajasthan Tour: Udaipur isConsidered as the mini Venice of India, Udaipur is one of the most beautiful destinations in Rajasthan and one of the easiest-to-explore budget cities in India.
Udaipur has breathtaking palaces, tranquil lakes, and winding streets full of history and charm which guarantees a brilliant experience for every traveler, including the frugal ones.
Be it an explorer, commemorating any fort, or a small vacationer to take a look at each well-visioned picturesque in 1/2 day, Udaipur do due to its charm.
I have recently travelled to Udaipur, being a budget traveller you do not have to spend a lot to enjoy the magic of this city.
So, here is the ultimate, full-fledged guide to exploring Udaipur economically, without making a significant dent in your pocket.
Travel on a Budget to Udaipur
So the first thing: How to reach Udaipur without much of a deficit? The good news is there are few options available all across the budgets spectrum.
Travelling by Train: Train is a really economical way to reach Udaipur, also Indian Railways has a pretty good network.
Udaipur has a railway station of its own, Udaipur City Station and is well connected to most major metropolitan cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur and Ahmedabad.
A sleeper class ticket can cost a few hundred rupees, which is not very much, and this is a convenient way to travel without spending a fortune. Do make advance bookings and yes, peak season comes with its own complications.
Bus: The second most economical way is to visit Udaipur by bus. Regular buses are provided by Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) from nearby cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Ahmedabad.
Government buses are quite trusted and budget-friendly whereas private buses can be of slightly more comfort for reasonable charges.
Air: If you are coming from far off places, then flying to Maharana Pratap Airport would make it easier. That said, flights end up being more expensive, so you need to book far in advance for the best fares.
When you arrive, take the airport shared taxi or a government bus to the city center without getting ripped off
Where to Stay in Udaipur : Affordable Hotels
You can save a lot on your trip to Udaipur if you know where to stay.
Staffed hostels: There are several hostels in Udaipur as it is a popular destination for backpackers so you will find your share of budget travellers.
I booked a spot at Zostel, where dorms are cheap and there is a rooftop with a beautiful view of the lake.
Other popular hostels such as Moustache and Bunkyard Hostel also offer budget beds and an opportunity to meet people over a beer.
Guesthouses: You can also stay with a taste of privacy in one of many family-run guesthouses located around the lake pichola and the old city. You get clean, basic rooms in these guesthouses and some even have a nice view of the lake from a rooftop terrace.
A few of them have preserved the old-world charm, which enhances the Udaipur experience.
Homestays: Living with a local family can not only provide you an authentic experience, but also be a cheaper option.
Others welcome visitors into their homes, offering you home-cooked meals, stories and advice about the area, and a taste of life in the Philippines.
Read MoreBudget Food: Where to Find Cheap Eats in Udaipur
Udaipur is a foodies paradise, and you can certainly relish the amazing food without breaking the bank here.
Street Food: The street food in Udaipur is another scene — a culture of its own with every tasty dish breaking your impacts — and bag.
One can get kachori, mirchi bada, and dabeli at Sukhadia Circle for a light bite. Another landmark for street food is Chetak Circle.
The best part? For low as 20-50 rupees you can get a full filling snack or meal.
Mid-range Eateries: If you are looking for a more filling meal, Udaipur boasts quite a few inexpensive yet good rooftop restaurants surrounding Lake Pichola where you can feast on a Rajasthani thali.
The thali is a traditional Indian meal served on a large plate, consisting of a variety of different servings designed to provide a taste of India in a single sitting.
Most of these restaurants have excellent views as well, so you are not just getting a meal, you are getting an experience.
Cafes There are some nice cafes in the old city offering inexpensive meals, coffee and snacks.
Grab a breakfast of masala chai or light lunch and enjoy donning the mellow atmosphere of the ancient streets of Udaipur.
Budget Tour in Udaipur: Wont-Missing Places
Udaipur Travel guide on a Budget Rajasthan Tour: Udaipur is known for its palaces, lakes, and sites and the majority are already very budget; even free.
City Palace – Another must-visit in Udaipur — The City Palace is a magnificent piece of architecture and has a lot of intrigue and history to it.
The admission is very affordable and it offers access to museums and galleries part of the palace complex. If you are going to several sites, search for combined tickets to be a little cheaper.
Lake Pichola & Fatehsagar Lake: Lake Pichola is heaven of Udaipur which you should never miss. Lake Pichola does not have free boat rides but it is worth the price and especially at sunset.
Go for a walk around the lake, or even go to Fatehsagar Lake, where views are free all day long. It boasts of a beautiful promenade ideal for an evening stroll.
Bagore Ki Haveli– Located just at the banks of Lake Pichola this traditional mansion. You can pay a minimal fee to roam its rooms, which display relics of Udaipur’s royal history.
For an inexpensive yet entertaining option, every evening, Bagore Ki Haveli offers a cultural show that features folk dancing and puppet shows.
Jagdish Temple– This famous Hindu temple is free to enter, also dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Right next to the City Palace is Jagdish Temple, famous for its ornate carvings and the crowded sounds of its surroundings.
Saheliyon Ki Bari: A beautiful historic garden made for royal ladies, it is a quiet area with fountains and gardens. The entrance cost is low, making it a nice, cheap getaway from the city.
We do not want to pay hundreds of bucks for taxi or auto rides for all and sundry as soon as we visit Udaipur, due to the fact its miles a historic city at the day prior to this time, it may be zipped easily.
Walking is truly one of the best ways to discover Udaipur. Most of the city’s attractions are in the old city, so you can walk without paying for a bus or metro ticket.
Walking: Walking allows you to experience the city and open up the narrow lanes, colorful markets, and hidden spots of the city. Plus, it’s free.
Local Buses and Rickshaws You can catch local bus or rickshaw for longer distances. In Udaipur, shared rickshaws are a popular and easy way to get around town, but don’t forget to negotiate the fare before hopping in, or choose the shared rickshaw option for a cheaper rate.
Bikes & Scooters: Most hostels and guesthouses also rent out bicycles and scooters, making Udaipur easy and inexpensive to get about.
It’s a whole different experience to ride on all the lakes, and within the lively running markets, this is a place that has freedom without breaking bank.
Cheap Shopping Places in Udaipur for Souvenirs
Takeaway: Udaipur is also famous for its handicrafts, including textiles and jewelry to miniature paintings and puppets. You can buy a bit of Udaipur at home, without having to shell out much.
Local Markets: Labeled with the Hathi Pol and Bada Bazaar, the market scene of Udaipur offers vibrant materials.
This is a country where it is normal to haggle, so go wild. Hathi Pol is famous for its typical Rajasthani art and miniatures, a great souvenir.
Artisan Cooperatives and Other Private Awardees: If you do not have the time and patience to go through each shop, hand-picked restaurants like Rajasthali also compete in selection under the national award scheme where they showcase artisans’ work which you can buy directly from the store pen set against dirt cheap prices guaranteed quality.
Local crafts are sold at good prices in these shops so you can buy without worrying about being overcharged.
Budget or Free Activities to do in Udaipur
Udaipur Travel guide on a Budget Rajasthan Tour: Many of the best experiences in Udaipur are free or cost very little. Here are some experiences where you spend nothing / next to nothing your way through the city soaking up all its beauty.
Sunset Points : The sunset view over the lakes of Udaipur is mesmerizing. Go to Ambrai Ghat to see the City Palace at sunset or visit Neemach Mata Temple that gives you panoramic footfalls of the city with an overarching view of the hills.
Udaipur Old City. Cultural Walks — Some community organisations or individuals carry out limited free or cost-effective cultural walking tours, bringing visitors through the old city of Udaipur. Such tours usually explore offbeat places offering you a deeper insight into city’s history.
Photography and Sightseeing: Udaipur is a photographers delight with its lovely lakes, ghats and the streets. Getting lost with a camera (or your mobile) is an inexpensive and exciting method for capturing the magic of the destination.
Last Tips, If You Are a Budget Traveler In Udaipur
Here are a couple of additional suggestions that can help you plan your Udaipur trip on a budget betters ensure that you maximise your fun on the trip.)
Haggle Wisely – You need to haggle in most local markets. Offer about 50 percent of the first price you hear, and then split the difference.
Select the Correct Season: The tourist season in Udaipur is between October and March. Prices are higher at this time, so coming in low season (September or April) will help you pay less for accommodation and tours.
Be Safe—Udaipur is a pretty safe city but its always better to safeguard your belongings, specially in the crowded places.
Book Ahead: Reserve lodging, transportation, and the most popular excursions ahead of time to secure better prices.
Conclusion: Udaipur Travel guide on a Budget Rajasthan Tour
Udaipur is a historical, cultural, and natural beauty packed city, and this is all absolutely doable on a budget.
Udaipur has plenty to offer to each type of traveller from magnificent palaces and peaceful lakes to bustling markets and delicious street food.
This article tells you how to have the ultimate trip in this beautiful city, without having to break the bank first.
So, get your bags packed and your camera out, and prepare to fall head-over-heels in love with magical Udaipur — all on a budget. Happy travels.
