When & How
Udaipur
Since Udaipur is in the desert state of Rajasthan, it gets extremely hot during summer and is best avoided at that time. The most ideal period to visit is October to February when the weather cools down considerably.
For those who wish to avoid the peak tourist season, the months of July and August, during monsoon, are also a good time to visit. The rains keep the temperatures cool, the lakes are full and the Aravallis are brilliantly lush!
Aside from the bigger, nationwide festivals (e.g. Diwali) there are some festivals particular to Udaipur. In December, a Shilpgram Utsav is held in Shilpgram, an artificial village in the city, to celebrate the folk arts and crafts of Rajasthan. In March, the Mewar Festival is held in the city to celebrate the advent of spring—a procession leading bedecked idols of Shiva and Parvati to Gangaur ghat is followed by fireworks and festivities. During Janamashtmi (usually in August) do head over to the Jagdish Mandir, which has special celebrations, including a Matki Tod ceremony (popularised in Mathura and Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh).
How to get there
Udaipur is very well-connected and easy to get to from almost all major cities.
By air:
The Maharana Pratap International Airport is about 22 kms outside the main city and is connected by daily flights to Delhi, Mumbai and Jaipur.
By rail:
The Udaipur City railway station is about 4 kms from the Old City and is connected to most major Indian cities. Udaipur is also one of the stops on the famous luxury train Palace on Wheels.
By road:
The highways to Udaipur are very well-maintained and a drive to the city is smooth. Buses ply regularly to Udaipur from Delhi, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Jodhpur and other smaller cities in Rajasthan, and from neighbouring Gujarat.
Getting around
The easiest and most economical way of getting around Udaipur is by taking autorickshaws or tuk-tuks. Autos tend to quote a higher rate, so make sure you haggle. Taxis are also easily available but may not be willing to go into certain parts of the Old City, because of its narrow lanes and traffic.
If you’re keen to explore the Old City then ditch the autos and the cabs and walk around—a much more satisfying experience. Several autos do offer day-tours, for a fixed price, and could be a convenient way to see all the major sights of the city, especially if you’re pressed for time.