Udaipur is known as the “City of Lakes.” Its beautiful lakes, magnificent palaces, historic buildings, and bustling markets attract millions of tourists every year. However, many hesitate to plan a trip to Udaipur, fearing it will be an expensive trip. In fact, with a little advance planning, a couple can enjoy a wonderful trip to Udaipur on a budget of around ₹10,000. By booking tickets at the right time, choosing a budget hotel, and using local transportation, expenses can be significantly reduced.
How to Save Money While Enjoying Your Trip and When to Go?
If you want to visit Udaipur on a budget, the best time to visit is between April and September. Tourist crowds are lower during this time, reducing hotel and travel costs. During the off-season, flight tickets to cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru can be found for ₹2,000 to ₹3,000. Traveling by train is a more affordable option; you can easily reach Udaipur from Delhi by taking the Mewar Express or Chetak Express. Sleeper class fares cost around ₹800, while 3AC travel costs around ₹2,000.
Where to stay on a budget?
Udaipur offers accommodations for every budget. If you want to keep your expenses low, you can choose from guesthouses, homestays, or budget hotels. Clean and comfortable rooms are easily available for ₹800 to ₹1,500 per night. Many offer amenities like breakfast and free Wi-Fi. For a more upscale experience, Mewar Haveli, Janak Niwas Guesthouse, or the Heritage Hotel near Fateh Sagar Lake are excellent options. Hostels are also a good and affordable option for backpackers and young couples, with accommodations ranging from ₹500 to ₹1,000 per night.
**Food and Drink Fun**
Traditional Rajasthani food is considered a special part of a trip to Udaipur. You should definitely try *Dal-Baati-Churma*, *Gatte ki Sabzi*, *Pyaz Kachori*, and local sweets. Local restaurants and dhabas offer good food for ₹150 to ₹250 per person. If you prefer street food, places like Hathipol Bazaar and Bada Bazaar offer affordable kachoris, samosas, lassi, and other local delicacies. For a more unique experience, dine at Ambrai Restaurant on the lakeside, which has a wonderful atmosphere. Jasmine Restaurant is also a good option for budget travelers.
**The cheapest way to explore the city**
There are several affordable ways to get around Udaipur, including local buses, auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and scooter rentals. Local bus fares range from ₹10 to ₹50, while auto-rickshaw fares for short distances can range from ₹50 to ₹100. If you prefer to travel on your own, you can rent a scooter for ₹300–₹400 per day and enjoy the city’s beautiful streets and lakes.
**Places to Visit**
It’s rare for a tourist to visit Udaipur to miss the City Palace. Built by Maharana Udai Singh, this palace is the city’s most iconic landmark and offers spectacular views of Lake Pichola. The evening light and sound show is also worth watching. A boat ride on Lake Pichola makes the trip even more memorable; this one-hour ride offers beautiful views of the lake, ghats, and Jagmandir Palace. The evening boat ride offers an even more spectacular view of the sunset. The traditional puppet show at the Bharatiya Lok Kala Mandal is also very popular with tourists. Cycling tours through the old streets, trekking in the surrounding hills, and a visit to the Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary can also add excitement to your trip.
Enjoy Shopping Too
Udaipur is also a great place for shopping enthusiasts. You can find Rajasthani miniature paintings, silver jewelry, Bandhani sarees, mojaris (traditional shoes), and beautiful handicrafts at places like Hathi Pol Bazaar, Bada Bazaar, Palace Road, and Chetak Circle. There’s room for bargaining, so try to negotiate a bit while shopping. If planning a two- or three-day trip, a couple can explore Udaipur for around ₹10,000.