Udaipur — the City of Lakes — is one of India’s most romantic and culturally rich destinations. With its shimmering lakes, royal palaces, colorful bazaars, and timeless sunsets, Udaipur has something to offer every kind of traveler. Whether you’re a backpacker counting every rupee or a luxury traveler looking for regal indulgence, this city welcomes you with open arms.
In this blog, we’ll explore two contrasting yet equally magical experiences: Udaipur on a Budget and Udaipur in Luxury
Where to Stay
Budget: Hostels, Homestays, and Heritage Guesthouses
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean compromising on charm. Udaipur is dotted with quirky hostels, budget hotels, and traditional guesthouses with stunning rooftop views.
Popular options: Zostel, Moustache Hostel, Banjara Hostel
Cost: ₹500–₹1500 per night
Vibe: Social, laid-back, community-oriented
Luxury: Royalty on the Lake
If you’re dreaming of waking up to the sound of waves lapping against a palace wall, Udaipur delivers. The city is home to some of the most opulent hotels in the world.
Top picks: Taj Lake Palace (floating on Lake Pichola), The Oberoi Udaivilas, The Leela Palace
Cost: ₹10,000 to ₹1,00,000+ per night
Vibe: Regal, serene, unforgettable
Where and What to Eat
Budget: Local Delights and Street Eats
Food in Udaipur is flavorful, affordable, and filling. Thali joints and local eateries serve up authentic Rajasthani flavors without denting your wallet.
Must-try: Dal Baati Churma, Kachori, Gatte ki Sabzi
Top spots: Natraj Dining Hall, Krishna Dal Bati, street stalls at Sukhadia Circle
Cost: ₹100–₹300 per meal
Luxury: Gourmet Dining with a View
Dine beside the lake, under the stars, with a menu curated by award-winning chefs. Luxury dining in Udaipur is an experience in itself.
Must-try: Laal Maas, fine wines, fusion Rajasthani platters
Top spots: Sheesh Mahal (The Leela), 1559 AD, Raas Leela
Cost: ₹1000–₹5000+ per meal
Getting Around
Budget: Local and Light
Explore the city on foot, rent a scooter, or hop on an auto-rickshaw. It’s cheap, adventurous, and you’ll interact more with the locals.
Bike rentals: ₹300–₹500/day
Auto rides: ₹50–₹200 depending on distance
Luxury: Chauffeured and Comfortable
Luxury travelers prefer private cars, air-conditioned taxis, or even boat rides to reach their hotel or explore.
Options: Luxury car rentals, hotel-arranged transfers, private boat cruises
Cost: ₹1000/day and up
What to Do
Budget: Explore and Immerse
Even with a tight budget, you can soak in the royal atmosphere. Visit historical sites, explore free viewpoints, and catch cultural shows.
Must-do: City Palace (₹30–₹300), Bagore Ki Haveli show (₹90), boat ride on Fateh Sagar Lake (~₹200), sunset at Ambrai Ghat (free)
Extras: Join walking tours, shop at Hathi Pol, or hike up to Sajjangarh Fort
Luxury: Curated Experiences
From private palace tours to spa treatments with a view of the lake, luxury travelers can experience the city through a lens of refinement.
Must-do: Exclusive boat rides on Lake Pichola, private folk performances, spa day at The Oberoi, fine-dining with lake views
Shopping: Designer boutiques, custom jewelry, curated handicrafts with delivery
Sunset Moments
Budget tip: Grab a masala chai and watch the sun dip below the Aravallis from a rooftop café like Jagat Niwas or from the steps of Ambrai Ghat.
Luxury treat: Sip champagne on a private boat or enjoy the sunset from your infinity pool at a palace hotel
Which Udaipur is for You?
Traveling on a budget? You’ll find Udaipur incredibly accommodating, full of color, flavor, and warm hospitality — even with a daily budget under ₹2000.
Looking for luxury? Udaipur is arguably one of the best destinations in India to indulge — where heritage meets modern opulence. Perfect for honeymoons, anniversary trips, or a royal retreat.
Bonus Tip: Mix It Up!
You don’t have to choose one or the other. Spend your first few days exploring the city on a budget, then wrap up your trip with a luxurious palace stay. Udaipur lets you create your own story — whatever your travel style.
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