Udaipur, also known as the “Venice of the East,” is a city that captures the essence of Rajasthan’s rich culture, history, and stunning landscapes. It’s a place where the grandeur of royal palaces, shimmering lakes, and colorful bazaars coexists with the warmth and hospitality of its people. To truly appreciate Udaipur, you need to explore beyond the surface and experience it like a local. While staying at Kavish Hotels & Resorts, the best resort in Udaipur, you are perfectly positioned to immerse yourself in the local culture, traditions, and lifestyle.
In this blog, we’ll guide you on how to experience Udaipur like a local while enjoying the comfort and luxury of Kavish Hotels & Resorts. From visiting hidden gems to indulging in local delicacies, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your Udaipur experience.
1. Begin Your Day with a Traditional Udaipur Breakfast
A day in Udaipur starts with a hearty and flavorful breakfast, and at Kavish Hotels & Resorts, you can begin your journey by indulging in some authentic Rajasthani morning treats. One of the best ways to connect with the local culture is through its cuisine, and traditional Rajasthani breakfasts like Poha, Kachori, and Jalebi are local favorites.
Poha, a light yet flavorful dish made from flattened rice, is often garnished with onions, coriander, and sev for a crunchy texture. Kachori, on the other hand, is a deep-fried pastry filled with spiced lentils or potatoes, and it’s often accompanied by tangy chutneys. End your breakfast with freshly made jalebis, which are crispy, syrupy, and a local delight.
By enjoying these regional dishes, you’ll start your day like a true local, setting the tone for an immersive Udaipur experience.
2. Explore the Hidden Alleys and Bazaars of Old Udaipur
Udaipur’s old city is a maze of narrow lanes, vibrant markets, and centuries-old havelis (mansions), and the best way to experience its local flavor is by wandering through these alleys. Staying at Kavish Hotels & Resorts, you can easily access Udaipur’s bustling bazaars, where locals go about their daily lives.
Head to Hathi Pol Bazaar, one of the most famous markets in Udaipur, where you can shop for handicrafts, traditional Rajasthani attire, jewelry, and miniature paintings. For art lovers, this market is a treasure trove of Pichwai and Phad paintings, which are classic examples of Udaipur’s artistic heritage.
Another must-visit is Bada Bazaar, where you’ll find traditional jewelry, vibrant textiles, and locally crafted juttis (Rajasthani footwear). Walking through these bazaars, you’ll feel the pulse of the city, interact with local artisans, and get a glimpse of Udaipur’s colorful, vibrant daily life.
3. Enjoy a Local Boat Ride on Lake Pichola
One of Udaipur’s most iconic experiences is a boat ride on the serene Lake Pichola, and it’s a must for anyone looking to experience the city like a local. The calm waters of the lake reflect the grandeur of the City Palace and the floating Lake Palace, creating a picture-perfect setting.
Locals often enjoy early morning or evening boat rides to take in the beauty of the city’s lakeside life. Staying at Kavish Hotels & Resorts allows you easy access to this quintessential Udaipur activity. You can book a boat ride that takes you around the lake, passing by Jag Mandir and offering stunning views of the surrounding palaces and ghats (riverfront steps). For a more authentic experience, opt for a sunset boat ride when the lake is bathed in golden hues and the city lights up in a warm, magical glow.
4. Visit Local Temples for a Spiritual Experience
Spirituality is deeply woven into the fabric of Udaipur’s culture, and visiting its historic temples allows you to connect with the city’s spiritual essence. One of the most important temples in Udaipur is the Jagdish Temple, located in the heart of the old city.
This centuries-old Hindu temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is known for its intricate architecture and stone carvings. The temple comes alive in the early mornings when locals gather for prayer, offering a glimpse into the spiritual life of Udaipur’s residents. While staying at Kavish Hotels & Resorts, you can take a short drive to this temple and experience the local customs, including ringing the temple bell, offering flowers, and participating in the morning aarti (prayer ceremony).
Another local favorite is Karni Mata Temple, perched on the top of a hill near Doodh Talai Lake. You can take a ropeway ride to the temple and enjoy panoramic views of Udaipur from the top. This spot is especially popular with locals during sunset, offering stunning views of the city’s lakes and palaces.
5. Savor the Flavors of Udaipur’s Street Food
While dining at Kavish Hotels & Resorts offers you gourmet Rajasthani and international cuisine, venturing out to try Udaipur’s street food is a must for any visitor looking to experience the city like a local. Udaipur’s streets are filled with food stalls offering a variety of snacks that locals swear by.
Start with Dal Kachori, a popular Rajasthani street food made of flaky pastry stuffed with spiced lentils. Another favorite is Pyaaz Kachori, which has a tangy onion filling. Don’t miss trying Mirchi Vada, a spicy fritter made with large green chilies stuffed with potato filling and fried to crispy perfection.
If you have a sweet tooth, head to one of Udaipur’s local sweet shops for Ghewar, a traditional Rajasthani sweet made from flour, ghee, and sugar syrup. This disc-shaped delicacy is often flavored with saffron and cardamom, and it’s a must-try for dessert lovers.
6. Experience Udaipur’s Cultural Events and Festivals
One of the best ways to experience Udaipur like a local is to participate in its cultural events and festivals, many of which are celebrated with great enthusiasm. If you’re staying at Kavish Hotels & Resorts during a local festival, you’re in for a treat!
One of Udaipur’s most famous festivals is Mewar Festival, which celebrates the arrival of spring and is marked by vibrant processions, folk music, and cultural performances. The festival culminates with a grand procession of idols of Goddess Gauri and Lord Shiva taken to Lake Pichola for immersion. The sight of the idols being taken on boats across the lake is a spectacle unique to Udaipur.
Another important festival is Gangaur, which is celebrated by local women who worship Goddess Parvati for marital happiness and prosperity. The festival includes beautifully decorated idols and traditional songs, making it a colorful and culturally immersive experience for visitors.
7. Unwind at Kavish Hotels & Resorts with Local Experiences
While staying at the best resort in Udaipur, you can enjoy the luxury of personalized experiences that give you a taste of local culture right within the resort. Kavish Hotels & Resorts offers a variety of Udaipur resort packages that cater to those looking for a cultural immersion.
For example, the resort’s Royal Rajasthani Experience Package includes traditional Rajasthani meals, cultural performances, and folk music, allowing guests to enjoy the essence of Rajasthan without leaving the property. The resort also organizes private yoga sessions in the gardens, offering a peaceful retreat for those seeking to connect with the spiritual side of Udaipur.
Additionally, the resort’s cooking classes give guests the chance to learn how to make local Rajasthani dishes, such as Ker Sangri and Dal Baati Churma, with guidance from expert chefs. This hands-on experience is not only fun but also provides a deeper understanding of the region’s culinary traditions.
8. Explore Udaipur’s Countryside Like a Local
For an off-the-beaten-path experience, venture beyond Udaipur’s city limits and explore the surrounding countryside. Staying at Kavish Hotels & Resorts makes it easy to arrange local excursions, including guided village tours where you can witness traditional Rajasthani life.
Take a short trip to nearby villages, such as Shilpgram, where you can see local artisans at work and shop for handmade crafts. You can also visit Delwara, a small village known for its temples and step wells, where you can interact with locals and learn about their rural lifestyle.
Exploring Udaipur’s countryside provides a peaceful contrast to the city’s lively atmosphere and allows you to see a more authentic side of Rajasthan.
Conclusion: Experience Udaipur Like a Local at Kavish Hotels & Resorts
Staying at Kavish Hotels & Resorts, the best resort in Udaipur, provides the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and authentic cultural experiences. By immersing yourself in Udaipur’s local traditions, food, and festivals, you’ll get a deeper understanding of this captivating city and its warm, welcoming people.
Whether you’re strolling through bustling bazaars, enjoying a boat ride on Lake Pichola, or indulging in a traditional Rajasthani thali, Kavish Hotels & Resorts offers you the ideal starting point for an unforgettable local experience. With their tailored Udaipur resort packages, you can enjoy the best of both worlds—a luxurious stay and an immersive journey into Udaipur’s vibrant culture.
