The glow and glisten of Udaipur at night is a sight to behold. Famously known as the "City of Lakes," it was founded in 1559 and is located in the southernmost part of Rajasthan, near Gujarat. The Aravalli Hills surround the city and add to the wonder of the place, so much so that it was called "the most romantic spot" on the Indian subcontinent by a lieutenant-general of the British East India Company, James Tod.
In honour of the the seven lakes of Udaipur, here are seven places to stay at the next time you draft your itinerary to this jewel in Rajasthan's crown.
Unlike other hotels on the block, Udai Kothi has been built with a wide range of colours, patterns and tiles. The highlight of staying here, besides the cosy rooms and attention to detail, is their rooftop pool and restaurant. Sit back on a cushioned divan, order a glass of wine and soak up the charms of Udaipur.
Accommodation starts at INR 7500 for a single night.
Address: HMMJ+24R, Chand Pole Road Opposite Chand Pole On, Hanuman Ghat Marg, Chand Pole, Pichola, Udaipur 313001
You would have to be living under a gigantic rock if you have not heard of this luxurious Oberoi hotel. Udaivilas is a sprawling property with beautiful architecture inspired by the heritage of the City of Lakes. The interiors are exquisitely done with utmost attention to detail, from the stunning lotus pond to the sparkling domes, lawns and of course, the rooms.
Accommodation starts at INR 33,250 for a single night.
Address: HMGC+VVV, Badi-Gorela-Mulla Talai Road, Haridas Ji Ki Magri, Pichola, Udaipur 313001
This 5-star hotel is in the same compound as the Oberoi Udaivilas property and offers a beautiful view of Lake Pichola. If you're aching for a dip in the water right away, take advantage of their excellent swimming pool.
Accommodation starts from INR 9,500 per night.
Address: Malla Talai Chowk, Trident Road, near Pichola, Haridas Ji Ki Magri, Udaipur 313001
There's little not to love about Amet Haveli, a palace-turned-heritage hotel on the banks of Lake Pichola. The beautifully done-up property is always in bloom with bright orange flowers in its courtyard and more inside. It boasts a spa, a pool and one of Udaipur's most wanted restaurants, Ambrai, as well as a Mexican one called Amber.
The lake-facing rooms start from INR 5000. Check with the hotel management for rates on standard non-lake rooms.
Address: Hanuman Ghat Road, Outside Chandpole, Ambamata, Udaipur 313001
Zostel is a backpacker's delight and its branch in Udaipur sits on a hill in the City of Lakes. Just a hop, skip and tumble away from Swaroop Sagar Lake, and not too far from Lake Pichola either, Zostel opens out to the bustling markets of the old city. Whether you sleep on a bunk bed in the dorm, opt for some privacy in the singles room or sit on the rooftop cafe: wherever you go, the lake will follow.
Accommodation starts from INR 499 for a single night.
Address: Purohit Ji Ka Khurra, Chand Pole, Udaipur 313001
If you want a beautiful and budget-friendly hotel with a view of Lake Pichola, look no further than Jagat Niwas. This restored haveli has all the trappings of a good holiday like a great location, well-maintained and clean rooms, prompt customer service and good food. Make sure to have a meal at their rooftop restaurant and pick a lake-facing room for the best experience.
Check with the hotel management for room rates.
Address: 23-25, Lal Ghat Behind Jagdish Temple, Udaipur 313001
At jüSTa Sajjangarh, you won't get a glimpse of the blue waters that draw visitors to Udaipur, but rest assured that it more than makes up for it with its view of the Sajjangarh Fort (also known as the Monsoon Palace). This hotel is a departure from typical haveli lodgings and is suitable for modern travellers with its focus on delicious contemporary food in its all-day restaurant, Sabor. Go for the view and stay for the food, we say.
Accommodation starts at INR 6,250 per night for a Superior Room.
Address: Sajjangarh Main Gate, Biological Park, Udaipur 313001