Udaipur, known as the “City of Lakes,” is a beautiful destination in Rajasthan, India, famous for its stunning palaces, serene lakes, and vibrant culture. While Udaipur is often associated with luxury, it’s also possible to explore and enjoy the city on a budget. In 2024, with a little planning and some smart choices, you can experience Udaipur’s magic without breaking the bank. This guide will show you how to enjoy Udaipur on a budget while still making the most of your trip. If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable taxi service in Udaipur, consider Kalyan Tours for a convenient travel experience.
1. Affordable Accommodation
Finding affordable accommodation is key to staying within your budget in Udaipur. The city offers plenty of budget-friendly options, such as guesthouses, hostels, and small family-run hotels. You can find a comfortable room for as little as INR 500–1000 per night if you book in advance. Look for guesthouses in the old city, around Lake Pichola, or in Lal Ghat, where you’ll be close to the main attractions without paying for luxury hotels.
Many hostels in Udaipur offer dormitory-style rooms at low rates, making them perfect for solo travelers. If you’re looking to maximize your budget for an Udaipur sightseeing tour, Kalyan Tours can offer an affordable taxi service in Udaipur to help you explore the city’s major attractions without hassle.
2. Eat Like a Local
One of the best ways to enjoy Udaipur on a budget is by eating at local restaurants and street food stalls. The city’s cuisine is delicious and affordable. Instead of dining at expensive restaurants, opt for dhabas (local eateries) and street vendors serving traditional Rajasthani dishes like dal baati churma, kachori, poha, and samosas.
Breakfast can be as simple as poha or kachori with chai, which costs around INR 50–100. For lunch and dinner, thalis (a platter with various dishes) are a great option and cost between INR 150–300. With savings on meals, you’ll have more room in your budget for a complete Udaipur sightseeing tour, and Kalyan Tours can provide an economical taxi service in Udaipur to ensure you don’t miss any major sights.
3. Explore Udaipur’s Free Attractions
Udaipur offers several free or low-cost attractions that allow you to soak in the city’s beauty without spending too much. A visit to Lake Pichola is a must, and walking along its shores or visiting the ghats won’t cost you a thing. The views of the lake and the surrounding palaces are breathtaking, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Another budget-friendly activity is exploring the old city on foot. Wander through the narrow streets, admire the beautiful architecture, and visit local markets. If you want to cover more ground comfortably, Kalyan Tours offers an affordable Udaipur sightseeing tour via their taxi service in Udaipur, ensuring you get to experience the city’s essence.
4. Visit Low-Cost Attractions
While some of Udaipur’s popular attractions have entry fees, many are still affordable. The entry fee for City Palace, one of Udaipur’s most famous landmarks, is around INR 300 for adults. You can spend hours wandering through the palace’s grand courtyards, galleries, and museums while learning about the rich history of Udaipur’s royal family.
Another affordable place to visit is Saheliyon Ki Bari, a beautiful garden with fountains, lotus pools, and marble pavilions, which costs only INR 50. For hassle-free transportation between these spots, Kalyan Tours provides a budget-friendly taxi service in Udaipur, making it easy to explore multiple attractions during your Udaipur sightseeing tour.
For panoramic views of Udaipur, head to Fateh Sagar Lake. Boating here is budget-friendly, with rides costing INR 30–200, depending on the type of boat. A taxi service in Udaipur from Kalyan Tours can drop you off at the lake and pick you up, allowing you to explore at your own pace without worrying about transportation.
5. Use Public Transportation
Transportation is one area where you can save a lot of money in Udaipur. Instead of hiring private cabs for every trip, consider using local buses and shared auto-rickshaws, which are very affordable. However, if you prefer more comfort and convenience without a large expense, Kalyan Tours offers an economical taxi service in Udaipur for your Udaipur sightseeing tour. This way, you can explore the city comfortably without overspending on transportation.
If you’re comfortable walking, Udaipur is a great city to explore on foot, especially in the old town area. Many of the attractions are close to each other, allowing you to save on transportation costs while enjoying the charm of the city up close.
6. Shop Smart at Local Markets
Udaipur is known for its vibrant markets, where you can find handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs at reasonable prices. To shop on a budget, visit local markets like Hathi Pol, Bada Bazaar, and Shilpgram. These markets offer a wide variety of items, and you can often bargain for a better deal.
If you’re traveling with Kalyan Tours on an Udaipur sightseeing tour, their friendly drivers can guide you to the best shopping spots. Kalyan Tours also offers a trusted taxi service in Udaipur, ensuring you shop comfortably without worrying about getting around.
7. Watch a Traditional Cultural Show
Experiencing Udaipur’s culture doesn’t have to be expensive. For a small fee, you can enjoy traditional Rajasthani folk dance and music performances at venues like Bagore Ki Haveli. The entry fee for the cultural show is around INR 90 for Indian nationals and INR 150 for foreigners. A taxi service in Udaipur by Kalyan Tours can take you to the haveli and bring you back to your accommodation, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable evening.
Another option is visiting Shilpgram, a rural arts and crafts village, where you can see local artisans at work, enjoy cultural performances, and buy handcrafted items at affordable prices.
8. Take a Budget-Friendly Day Trip
If you have time and want to explore beyond Udaipur, there are budget-friendly day trips you can take. For example, you can visit Kumbhalgarh Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is about a two-hour drive from Udaipur. For this, Kalyan Tours provides an affordable taxi service in Udaipur, allowing you to enjoy the ride without worrying about high transport costs.
Another great option is Ranakpur Jain Temple, famous for its intricate marble architecture. Entry to the temple is free, and with Kalyan Tours’ budget-friendly taxi service, you can comfortably take these day trips while sticking to your budget.
9. Plan Ahead and Book Early
One of the easiest ways to enjoy Udaipur on a budget is by planning ahead. Booking flights, trains, or buses well in advance can help you save on transportation costs. Similarly, reserving your accommodation early will give you access to the best deals, especially during peak tourist seasons.
By planning your Udaipur sightseeing tour early with Kalyan Tours, you can secure the best rates for their taxi service in Udaipur. Booking your transport in advance helps ensure a smooth and affordable travel experience.
Conclusion
Udaipur may have a reputation as a luxury destination, but with some smart planning, it’s possible to explore the city on a budget in 2024. From affordable accommodation and local food to free attractions and budget-friendly activities, Udaipur has plenty to offer without burning a hole in your pocket. Whether you’re a solo traveler, backpacker, or family on a budget, Udaipur’s charm and beauty can be enjoyed by everyone. Kalyan Tours offers an economical taxi service in Udaipur that can enhance your Udaipur sightseeing tour, ensuring you enjoy the city’s wonders while keeping your expenses low.
