How to get to Udaipur

When planning a journey to Udaipur, often referred to as the "Venice of the East", tourists discover one of the most picturesque and charming destinations in the state of Rajasthan in India. This ancient city, famous for its magnificent palaces and scenic lakes, boasts a developed transport infrastructure that allows you to arrive in comfort. When deciding how to get to Udaipur, travellers can choose between a flight, a train journey through neighbouring hubs, a bus service, or a trip by car.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the "City of Lakes" is by air. The city is served by Maharana Pratap Airport (UDR), which is well-connected by regular flights to the country's major metropolises. The airport is located at a reasonable distance from the city centre, making arrival here as comfortable as possible for tourists.

Alternatively, if direct tickets are unavailable, you can consider flying to nearby major cities followed by a transfer. The closest airports are located in the cities of Jodhpur (196 km) and Ahmedabad (209 km), as well as in the city of Kishangarh.

Contrary to outdated information, Udaipur is excellently integrated into India's railway network and has its own station, Udaipur City. Direct trains arrive here, such as the famous Mewar Express or Chetak Express, connecting the city with Delhi, Jaipur, and other key regions.

If tickets for direct routes are unavailable, you can plan a route with a transfer through major transport hubs such as Jodhpur or Ahmedabad. Travelling by rail allows you not only to save money but also to immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of the country.

Bus services are a popular and budget-friendly way to get to the city, allowing you to enjoy the views of the state of Rajasthan. Regular services operate from Ahmedabad: the bus covers the distance of 212 km in approximately 7.1 hours. A trip from Jodhpur (about 243 km) will take a similar amount of time — around 7.1 hours.

There is also a route from the city of Kishangarh. Despite the greater distance (about 269 km), the travel time here is often shorter — about 6.2 hours thanks to the condition of the highway.

Travelling by car or taxi gives travellers flexibility and the opportunity to make stops in picturesque places. The fastest route runs from Ahmedabad: you can cover 258 km in just 4.7 hours. The road from Jodhpur will take slightly longer — about 4.9 hours for a distance of 263 km.

If you are departing from the city of Kishangarh, expect to spend approximately 5 hours on the road (distance about 306 km). Taxis in India are relatively affordable, but it is recommended to agree on a fixed price or require the meter to be turned on before starting the trip.

To ensure your stay in the "White City" of Rajasthan is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant memories, it is worth noting a few local features in advance. Here is a list of useful recommendations for preparing for your trip:

1. Clothing and Seasonality. The climate here is hot, so choose light clothing made from natural fabrics (cotton, linen). However, it is best to keep shoulders and knees covered, especially when visiting temples, which aligns with modest dress codes. Evenings can be cool in winter, so a light jacket is useful.
2. Transport in the City. The most colourful and convenient way to travel short distances is by auto-rickshaw (tuk-tuk). Always bargain for the price before boarding or use taxi apps like Uber or Ola for fixed rates.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Indian Rupee. Cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants, but always keep small denomination cash handy for markets, souvenir shops, and transport fares.
4. Health and Water. Drink only bottled water, checking that the cap seal is intact when purchasing. Avoid ice in beverages at street cafes and pack a small first-aid kit with digestion aids in advance.
5. Language and Communication. The main languages are Hindi and Mewari, but English is widely spoken in the tourism sector. Learning a couple of words in Hindi, such as "Namaste" (Hello), will elicit a sincere smile from the locals.
6. Temple Etiquette. Be sure to remove your shoes when entering any Hindu temple. In some places, you may also be required to cover your head, and leather items (belts, bags) may be prohibited from being brought inside.
7. Caution with Guides. Avoid intrusive street "helpers" offering to take you to the "best shop" or a "special place". This is often a scheme to earn commissions on your purchases at inflated prices.
8. Sunsets on the Lakes. Be sure to plan a dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking Lake Pichola — this is the city's signature experience and the best way to end the day.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid minor inconveniences and fully immerse yourself in the fairytale atmosphere of royal Udaipur.