Hidden Udaipur: Beyond the Palaces
Unveiling the City’s Quiet Corners and Local Secrets
When people think of Udaipur, they often picture grand palaces, glimmering lakes, and lavish royal heritage. But step off the tourist trail, and you’ll discover a different side of the City of Lakes — one that thrives in quiet cafés, secret viewpoints, and serene natural spots that locals hold close to their hearts. Here’s a glimpse into hidden Udaipur — beyond the palaces.
🌊 1. Badi Lake: Where Serenity Speaks
Tucked away from the hustle of the city, Badi Lake is a tranquil expanse of water that mirrors the Aravalli hills. Unlike Lake Pichola or Fatehsagar, Badi remains uncommercialized — no boat rides, no vendors, just nature and silence.
- Best time to visit: Early morning or sunset.
- Local tip: Hike a little to reach Bahubali Hills, a secret viewpoint overlooking the lake. It’s a favorite among local photographers and morning walkers.
🌄 2. Rayta Hills: A Road to Peace
Drive a little beyond Udaipur city limits, and you’ll reach Rayta, a hidden gem for those seeking solitude and scenic beauty. The winding roads and rolling hills are a visual treat, especially during monsoon when the landscape turns lush green.
- Why go? For the breathtaking aerial views of the valley and occasional misty mornings.
- Pro tip: Carry your own snacks and a mat — this place is perfect for a quiet roadside picnic.
🏹 3. Shikarbadi: Royal Retreat in the Wild
Once a royal hunting lodge, Shikarbadi is now a peaceful getaway surrounded by nature. It offers a blend of old-world charm and wilderness, complete with deer sightings and peacocks strutting across the lawns.
- What to do here? Sip a slow coffee at the Shikarbadi Hotel, watch the horses at the stable, or enjoy a relaxed meal with a forest view.
- Insider fact: It’s still owned by the Mewar royal family and retains its private, quiet vibe.
🛕 4. Neemach Mata Temple: Steps to Solitude
Perched atop a hill near Fatehsagar Lake, Neemach Mata Temple offers both a spiritual and a physical experience. The 900+ steps might feel like a mini trek, but the panoramic view from the top is well worth the effort.
- Why it’s special: Sunset from here paints the lakes golden.
- Who goes? Locals seeking peace, morning joggers, and students looking for a break from routine.
☕ 5. Locals’ Favorite Cafés: Hidden in Plain Sight
While tourists crowd Jagdish Chowk or Hathipole, locals often escape to tucked-away cafés that combine great ambience with genuine charm.
- Jheel’s Ginger Coffee Bar & Bakery: Hidden by the lake, this tiny café has a stunning view and arguably the best ginger tea in town.
- Hello Boho: A cozy, artsy café behind Fatehsagar that’s perfect for reading or writing.
- Chunda Shikar Café: Unknown to most tourists, this spot near Shikarbadi is loved for its laid-back forest-side seating.
🌿 Final Thoughts: Embrace Udaipur’s Quiet Corners
Udaipur is more than a postcard-perfect destination. It’s a living city with layers — old temples, hillside sunsets, silent lakes, and sleepy cafés that tell stories if you’re quiet enough to listen.
So next time you’re in Udaipur, take the detour. Go beyond the palaces. Sit by a hidden lake. Walk a lonely hill road. Order tea where the locals go. In those unscripted moments, you’ll meet the soul of Udaipur.
📍 Have a favorite hidden spot in Udaipur? Drop it in the comments and let the secret-sharing begin.
