Top 10 Fun-Filled Activities and Things to Do in Udaipur With Family

Udaipur, Mewar’s historic capital, is full of mesmerising sights that should be on everyone’s bucket list. Surrounded by the Aravalli mountain range, this colourful 'city of lakes' has tourists flocking to it. Udaipur has been hailed as an ideal family vacation spot because it offers a number of fun-filled activities and there are many things to do in Udaipur. 

Though most of Rajasthan can be quite hot, Udaipur happens to remain pleasant through September-March, with winters being the best time to visit. If you’re planning a family vacation to the city of royalty, here’s a list of the top 10 things to do in Udaipur!

Things to Do in Udaipur, India

1. Visit the City Palace - Things to do in Udaipur

The Udaipur City Palace is 400 years old and sits atop a hill, overlooking a beautiful lake. This flamboyantly designed palace was the birthplace of Maharana Pratap and is a symbol of Mewar pride. Combining Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles, the palace is truly a feast for the eyes. Visiting the City Palace is one of the top things to do in Udaipur. 

Walk through the many eras of Mewar by visiting the 11 smaller palaces inside it built by various other rulers. Be sure to stay back for the Mewar light-and-sound show at Manek Chowk, as it is one of the unique things to see in Udaipur. It’s conducted in both Hindi and English. The City Palace tour is one of the best things to do in Udaipur along with family 

Hours open: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM (last ticket sold at 4:30 PM)

Entry fee: Adults Rs 30; Children (age 5-18) Rs 15

Show timings: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

2. Visit Lake Pichola - Things to do in Udaipur

A serene water body in the City of Lakes, Lake Pichola is one of Udaipur’s largest artificial freshwater lakes. It was built in 1362 and has four islands that have been developed for tourism. Surrounded by bathing ghats, palaces, and hills, the lake is at its dazzling best at night and is one of the top places to visit Udaipur. 

Do not miss going on a boat ride - that will be one of the best things to do in Udaipur! The magnificent City Palace on the eastern bank coupled with the serene ambience makes for an enchanting evening. 

Hours open: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Entry fee: Nil

3. City Heritage Tour - Things to do in Udaipur

This has to be one of the best things to do in Udaipur. The historically significant city of Udaipur has seen many rulers in its time. Each lane, lake, and pebble holds a mystery and has a story to tell. Stroll through the markets of the city or feast your eyes on its grand palaces and vibrant gardens. Wherever you go, you are sure to marvel at the regal exuberance of the place. 

Do ensure that the City Heritage Tour packages include the best spots and are scheduled properly to give you time to take in all the sites. With a Club Mahindra membership, you can gain access to some of the most breath-taking sights of Udaipur, thanks to City Tours that score well on both planning and execution. This is one of the top things to do in Udaipur.

4. Visit Haldighati

Visiting Haldighati should be included in your list of things to do in Udaipur if you want to learn more about the history of the royal city. The site of the historically significant Battle of Haldighati, this mountain pass has seen its share of violence and bloodshed. The yellow soil of the region looks like turmeric, hence the name. 

It is in this area that you will find Moti Magri (or Pearl Hill) with a cenotaph of the valiant Maharana Pratap and his faithful horse Chetak, just 4 km from the actual battleground. Scores of people who pass by Haldighati stop to pay their respects. The memorial is situated around 40 km from the city of Udaipur and is best visited during the day.

5. Horseback Riding

One of the most popular adventure activities and things to do in Udaipur is horse riding. Rural Rajasthan has a charm of its own, but it is difficult to navigate the terrain on foot. This is why many tourism companies organise horseback tours, where you can explore the harder-to-reach areas around Udaipur with a lovely equestrian companion.

The rides are decided based on your proficiency as a horse rider and can be adjusted as per your convenience. The equipment is provided by the operators, who will also be the judge of the pace of your tour. Riding horses at night or for longer periods are activities strictly restricted to skilled professionals. Visit the Club Mahindra Reviews page to know more about recommended horse riding activities.

6. Kumbhalgarh Sound-and-Light Show

Of all the things to do at Kumbhalgarh, attending the sound-and-light show must be at the top of your list. As day turns to night, citizens of Kumbhalgarh flock to the fort to be enthralled by the enchanting light show. This show is conducted only in Hindi, and is one of the best things to see in Udaipur. This is also one of the best things to do in Udaipur while on a holiday with kids. 

Hours open: 6:45 PM - 7:15 PM

Entry fee: Rs 100

7. Go Cycling in Udaipur

You’ll never run out of things to do in Udaipur. If you aren’t comfortable with horseback riding, cycling tours are another great way to explore the city while packing in some exercise too. Cycling around the city with the breeze in your hair gives you a rush. This is just one of the many adventure activities in Udaipur you can take part in.

8. Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary

Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for nature lovers and photographers. With the Aravalli Ranges gracing the scenic area, this sanctuary hosts many rare animals such as leopards, wolves, Chousinghas, and sloths. This is one of the things to do in Udaipur - Kumbhalgarh that will put you in touch with nature and give you a sense of calm.

Hours open: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Entry fee: Rs 100 (weekdays); Rs 75 (weekends)

9. Udaipur Lake Palace

You can’t leave Udaipur without visiting the exquisite Udaipur Lake Palace. The summer retreat of the Maharanas of Mewar, this stunning piece of Rajasthani architecture stands on Jag Niwas Island in Lake Pichola. The building has now been turned into an elegant heritage hotel and is one of the most popular wedding destinations in India. A must include in your list of things to do in Udaipur.

10. Visit Jagdish Temple

Last, but certainly not the least, visit the Jagdish temple in Udaipur. Situated inside the City Palace complex, this place of worship built by Maharana Jagat Singh in 1651 is lavish, and perhaps the most beautiful in all of Udaipur. This is one of the top things to do in Udaipur.

Hours open: 5:30 AM - 2:30 PM, 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM

How to reach Udaipur

Here's how you can reach Udaipur. 

By Air:

Udaipur has its own airport, Maharana Pratap Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India. You can take a direct flight to Udaipur from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and others. Once you arrive at the airport, you can easily hire a taxi or use other local transportation to reach your destination in Udaipur. 

By Train:

Udaipur is well-connected by train to various cities across India. The Udaipur Railway Station is the main railway station in the city. Regular trains operate to and from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, and more. Once you arrive at the railway station, you can hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or use other local transportation to reach your specific destination in Udaipur. 

By Road:

Udaipur has a good road network, and buses operate regularly to and from major cities in Rajasthan and neighbouring states. You can opt for state-run buses, private buses, or luxury coaches depending on your preference and budget.

If you prefer flexibility and have access to a vehicle, you can drive to Udaipur. The city is well-connected by national highways. Also, a personal car will make it easier to reach the best places to visit Udaipur.

Taxis and cabs are available for hire from nearby cities and towns. Many travel agencies and online platforms offer taxi services for a more comfortable and personalized journey.