2-Day Budget Backpacking Guide to Udaipur
Udaipur, often called the 'Venice of the East,' is a dream destination for budget backpackers. While the luxury palace hotels grab the headlines, the soul of the city lies in its narrow winding alleys, ancient ghats, and affordable rooftop cafes that overlook the shimmering Lake Pichola. This itinerary is designed for the traveler who wants to soak in the royal atmosphere without the royal price tag.
By staying in vibrant hostels, eating like a local, and focusing on the city's naturally stunning architecture and landscapes, you can easily experience Udaipur for as little as $7 USD per day. Get ready to embrace the slow-paced lakeside life and the high-energy street food scene that makes this city a backpacker favorite.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Udaipur, India - Old City Heritage & Sunsets
Jagdish Temple
Start your journey at this stunning Indo-Aryan temple. It is free to enter and offers a peaceful atmosphere with intricate stone carvings and spiritual chants. It's the heart of the Old City.
Gangaur Ghat
A short walk from the temple, this is one of the most famous ghats in the city. Sit on the steps, watch the local life, and take in the view of Lake Taj Lake Palace. It's a prime spot for photography without any entrance fees.
Bagore Ki Haveli (External Area)
While the museum has a small fee, exploring the courtyard and the surrounding heritage architecture is a treat for the eyes. Grab some 'Poha' or 'Mirchi Bada' from a nearby street vendor for a cheap local lunch.
Ambrai Ghat Sunset
Cross the footbridge to the Hanuman Ghat side to reach Ambrai Ghat. It offers the best free view of the City Palace as it lights up at dusk. It is the ultimate spot for budget travelers to relax by the water.
Day 2: Udaipur, India - Parks, Palaces & Lakeside Chills
Saheliyon-ki-Bari
Take a shared auto-rickshaw to this historic 'Garden of the Maidens.' For a very small entry fee (approx. $0.50), you can enjoy lush lawns, marble elephants, and unique fountains that work purely on gravity.
Fateh Sagar Lake
Walk or take a short ride to Udaipur's second-largest lake. The lakeside promenade is perfect for a cheap lunch of 'Cold Coffee' and 'Bread Bada' from the famous street food stalls at Bombay Market.
Moti Magri
Visit the Pearl Hill to see the statue of Maharana Pratap. It offers a panoramic view of Fateh Sagar Lake. It's a great spot for a budget-friendly hike and a bit of history away from the Old City crowds.
Hathi Pol Bazaar
End your trip by wandering through this vibrant market. While you might be on a budget, window shopping for Pichwai paintings and Rajasthani handicrafts is free, and the street food here is incredibly cheap and authentic.
Best Time & Weather
The best time to visit Udaipur is from September to March when the weather is pleasantly cool. Summers (April to June) can be scorching with temperatures exceeding 40°C, making midday exploration difficult. The monsoon season (July to August) is also beautiful as the lakes refill and the surrounding Aravalli hills turn lush green.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). While many shops in the Old City now accept digital payments (UPI), budget travelers should carry cash for street food and rickshaws. Tipping is not mandatory but rounding up the bill at small cafes or giving 20-50 INR to helpful guides is appreciated.
Getting Around
Udaipur's Old City is best explored on foot as the alleys are too narrow for cars. For longer distances, use the 'Uber' or 'Ola' apps to book auto-rickshaws at fair prices. Shared rickshaws are the cheapest option, often costing only 10-20 INR for fixed routes between major landmarks like Hathi Pol and Fateh Sagar.
