Udaipur's royal history isn't just found on day-trip forts outside the city - the city itself is home to some of Rajasthan's finest palaces, all within easy reach of each other. If you have just a day or two in Udaipur and want to stay within city limits, here are the forts and palaces you shouldn't miss.
1. City Palace
The largest palace complex in Rajasthan sits right on the eastern bank of Lake Pichola, in the heart of Udaipur. Construction began in 1559 under Maharana Udai Singh II, and it grew over four centuries into a sprawling complex of courtyards, museums, and hanging gardens that blends Rajasthani and Mughal architecture.
Highlights
- Mor Chowk (Peacock Courtyard)
- Manak Chowk
- Royal museum with paintings, artifacts, and weaponry
- Panoramic views of Lake Pichola
Set aside two to three hours to explore it properly - it's easily the most essential stop in the city.
2. Jag Mandir Palace
Rising out of Lake Pichola itself, Jag Mandir is reached by a short boat ride from the city and remains one of Udaipur's most photographed landmarks. Built in the early 17th century by Maharana Karan Singh, the white marble and sandstone palace is known for its gardens, courtyards, and a historic boathouse.
Because of its lakeside setting, Jag Mandir is also a popular venue for weddings and private events - worth keeping in mind if you're exploring celebration venues in the city, not just sightseeing.
3. Fateh Prakash Palace
Part of the larger City Palace complex, Fateh Prakash Palace was built in the 19th century by Maharana Fateh Singh to host royal guests. Today it functions partly as a heritage hotel, so unlike most palaces on this list, you can actually walk through interiors that are still in active use rather than preserved purely as a museum.
4. Sajjangarh Palace (Monsoon Palace)
Technically just outside the main city on a hilltop overlooking Fateh Sagar Lake, Sajjangarh is close enough to fit into a half-day city itinerary. Built in 1884 by Maharana Sajjan Singh, the white marble palace is best visited close to sunset, when its terrace gives a panoramic view over Udaipur's lakes and rooftops.
5. Bagore Ki Haveli
On Gangaur Ghat, right along Lake Pichola, Bagore Ki Haveli is an 18th-century mansion with over 100 rooms, courtyards, and balconies, now converted into a museum of Rajasthani art, costumes, and artifacts. In the evenings, it hosts the Dharohar Dance Show, a folk performance that's one of the best ways to experience local culture without leaving the city.
Getting Around
Because all of these sites are within or right at the edge of the city, they're easy to cover on foot, by boat, or with a short auto/cab ride between stops - no long day trips required.
A relaxed two-day plan works well:
- Day 1: City Palace and Bagore Ki Haveli
- Day 2: Jag Mandir and Sajjangarh Palace (timed for sunset)
If you're staying in the city for a few days to explore its palaces at your own pace, a private villa gives you a comfortable base close to the lakes without the rush of a packed tour schedule. Oru Villas offers private, fully-staffed villas across Udaipur, many within easy reach of Lake Pichola and the City Palace area.
