Nestled beside the shimmering waters of Lake Pichola and surrounded by the majestic Aravalli hills, Udaipur has a romance which, we feel, is unmatched by anything else in India.
This dazzling and easy-going city is a stunning combination of white marble palaces, historic temples, crooked colourful streets, azure lakes, and lush gardens. The landmarks of the town are the enchanting Lake Palace and City Palace, drawing visitors in from near and far to witness their splendour.
Udaipur offers many beautiful places to stay and it can be difficult to choose! So much so, some of our guests opt to experience two properties during their stay in Udaipur; with one night at the Taj Lake Palace and one night elsewhere being a favourite combination. We feel that a view of the lake is an experience not to be missed, and one that creates extraordinary memories. Here – in no particular order – is a selection of our favourite lake-view hotels in Udaipur:
1. The Leela Palace
Spectacular view from The Leela Palace’s Sheesh Mahal restaurant
Set on the edge of Lake Pichola, overlooking the Aravalli Hills, the Lake Palace and the City Palace, The Leela Palace offers a spectacular panorama that’s difficult to beat! All rooms and suites, the spa, and the Sheesh Mahal restaurant face the lake so that you can soak up the scenery throughout your stay.
This hotel is within walking distance of the city’s main attractions, including the City Palace. As it’s on the lake, you can travel by boat to and from the town if you fancy, which is particularly picturesque in the late afternoon as the sun goes down.
The Leela Palace was constructed over 14 years, and this is reflected in the incredible detail that has gone into the artwork throughout the hotel and the intricate murals in the courtyards. The spacious rooms are beautifully finished and dressed with sumptuous furnishings, offering a modern aesthetic with a traditional touch.
Rooms and suites at The Leela Palace are amongst the most luxurious in Rajasthan
2. The Oberoi Udaivilas
The Oberoi Udaivilas on the banks of Lake Pichola, in Udaipur, Rajasthan
Recently voted as the ‘Best Hotel in the World‘ by readers of Travel+Leisure, The Oberoi Udaivilas is designed in the style of a traditional Rajasthani palace; domes, turrets, fountains and reflection pools regularly feature throughout the hotel. The bright and airy bedrooms are amongst the most comfortable in the country, particularly those with semi-private pools overlooking the lake.
There is a luxurious spa to pamper yourself at, and private yoga sessions can be arranged. Numerous dining options are available; for the more adventurous of guests, you can even take a picnic onto a private gondola. The Oberoi Udaivilas is a tranquil haven to relax in. It’s an ideal base for exploring Udaipur if you can tear yourself away!
A Premier Room at The Oberoi Udaivilas in Udaipur, Rajasthan
3. Amet Haveli
Udaipur, as seen from Amet Haveli (a boutique hotel by the lake), Rajasthan
Amet Haveli is not a luxury hotel, but its location and local character make it an extraordinary place. This charming haveli has one of the best locations in Udaipur, overlooking the lake, the town and the City Palace; the trifecta of Udaipur views! Rooms are simply furnished yet bursting with character. Views of the lake are spectacular, with the water being so close that one feels they’re staying on the lake itself!
The restaurant, Ambrai, is one of Udaipur’s most famous. It’s right on the water and shaded by mature trees.
All rooms and suites at Amet Haveli have views of the lake
4. Trident
View of the Lake from the Suite at Trident, Udaipur
The light and airy Trident, Udaipur is run to the usual high standards of the Oberoi group. It’s on the opposite side of the water from the City Palace and has beautiful views of the lake and Aravalli Hills. The rooms are well equipped and very comfortable facing either the pool or the garden. The facilities include a large swimming pool and an excellent multi-cuisine restaurant. In the evening, diners may enjoy views of the stars while enjoying a traditional thali and classical Indian music.
The alfresco restaurant looks out over the Aravalli hills
5. Taj Lake Palace
The spectacular Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur; one of Rajasthan’s most famed luxury hotels
One of the most photographed hotels in the world, the legendary Lake Palace appears to float like a mirage in the middle of Lake Pichola. It looks dazzling from the shore.
Reached by a short boat ride, it was built as a summer retreat 250 years ago, by Maharana Jagjit Singh who ruled in the 17th century.
The view of the City Palace, which lies directly opposite is magnificent and uninterrupted. The interiors have undergone a significant refurbishment, which has gone a long way to restore its palatial feel with marble floors and rich furnishings.
There are two restaurants; one informal serving both buffet and a la carte from around the world and the other a fine dining option specialising in Rajasthani food which overlooks the famous lily pond and only opens for dinner. The pool terrace has lovely views of the City Palace.
Suite at the luxurious Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur, Rajasthan
6. Taj Fateh Prakash Palace
Taj Fateh Prakash Palace has arguably the best view in Udaipur
Taj Fateh Prakash Palace is located within the extensive City Palace complex and was built initially as a guest wing for the Maharana’s royal visitors. This section of the palace has now been converted into a hotel and has spectacular views of the lake.
The rooms have plenty of charm and provide all the comforts one expects, though it’s the views that are the highlight. Of all the hotels that surround Lake Pichola, Fateh Prakash Palace has the views of the Lake Palace that all are envious of!
The location is ideal with the heart of the Old City is just a stroll away.
All rooms and suites at Taj Fateh Prakash Palace have an excellent view of Lake Pichola and the Lake Palace
7. Jagat Niwas Palace
Views of the lake are superb from Jagat Niwas Palace
Jagat Niwas Palace is built in a Mewar style, offering views of the lake and surrounding palaces. It provides the chance to stay in a characterful, historic hotel with an excellent location, right on the eastern banks of Lake Pichola.
Rooms are clean and simple, decorated in a traditional style. A highlight of the property is its restaurant, which serves a variety of cuisines and offers stunning views across the lake and city. It is particularly special at sunset.
Conveniently located in the Old City, close to the City Palace and Jagdish Temple, Jagat Niwas is an ideal base from which to explore the city, as well as the many souvenir shops in town which specialise in miniature paintings. Being located in the old city where roads are too narrow to accommodate cars, we’ll arrange your transfers to/from the property by auto-rickshaw (tuk-tuk). Not only is this a fun way to travel around, but it’s also the fastest and most convenient at certain times of day when the lanes are crowded.
Rooms at Jagat Niwas Palace are modest and cheerful
If you’d like to include a stay in Udaipur on your upcoming visit to Rajasthan, please get in touch – we’d love to bring your ideas to life and assist with your arrangements. Or, you might like to take a look at our sample itineraries by clicking here, to get you started.
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