To get around in Udaipur, you can use a variety of transportation options including taxis, city buses, ride-hailing apps, and auto-rickshaws, as well as exploring the city on foot or by bicycle.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Udaipur is well-connected to major Indian cities by air, rail, and road. The Maharana Pratap Airport, also known as Dabok Airport, is the main airport serving the city, and it receives flights from major domestic airports like Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur. You can also reach Udaipur by train, with the Udaipur City railway station being the main terminal. The city is also connected to nearby cities like Ahmedabad and Jodhpur by bus and taxi services. If you're traveling from outside India, you can fly into a major international airport like Delhi or Mumbai and then take a domestic flight or train to Udaipur.
The city has several overland entry points, including the Ahmedabad-Udaipur highway and the Jaipur-Udaipur highway. You can take a bus or taxi from these cities to reach Udaipur. Alternatively, you can also hire a private car or taxi for a more comfortable journey. The city is also a popular destination for tourists, and many travel agencies offer package tours that include transportation from nearby cities.
Domestic Flights
Udaipur has a moderate domestic air network, with flights connecting to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur. You can fly to Udaipur from these cities using airlines like Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet. The flight duration from Delhi to Udaipur is approximately 1.5 hours, while from Mumbai it's around 2 hours. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons. The approximate cost of a one-way domestic flight to Udaipur can range from $50 to $200, depending on the airline, time of year, and availability.
Trains & Rail
Udaipur has a moderate rail network, with trains connecting to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur. The Udaipur City railway station is the main terminal, and you can take trains to nearby cities like Ahmedabad and Jodhpur. The Indian Railways network offers a range of classes, from budget-friendly options like Second Class to more luxurious options like First Class. You can book train tickets online through the Indian Railways website or through a travel agency. The journey from Delhi to Udaipur by train takes around 12 hours, while from Mumbai it's around 16 hours.
Buses & Coaches
Udaipur is connected to nearby cities by bus services, including government-run buses and private operators. The Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) operates bus services to cities like Jaipur, Ahmedabad, and Jodhpur. Private operators like Volvo and Mercedes also offer luxury bus services to these cities. The bus journey from Jaipur to Udaipur takes around 6-7 hours, while from Ahmedabad it's around 4-5 hours. The cost of a one-way bus ticket can range from $10 to $50, depending on the operator and class of service.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Bus | Udaipur | $0.20-$1 | Affordable, frequent services |
| Taxi | Udaipur | $1-$5/km | Available at taxi stands, can be hired for the day |
| Ride-Hailing | Udaipur | $3-$10 | Uber, Ola available, convenient for short trips |
| Tuk-tuk/Rickshaw | Udaipur | $1-$3 | Affordable, ideal for short distances |
| Bicycle | Udaipur | $5-$10/day | Available for rent, a great way to explore the city |
| Auto-Rickshaw | Udaipur | $2-$5 | Available, can be hired for short trips |
Driving
- To drive in Udaipur, you need a valid Indian driving license or an International Driving Permit.
- The road quality in Udaipur is moderate, with some roads being well-maintained while others may be poorly maintained.
- Fuel costs in India are relatively low, with petrol and diesel prices ranging from $0.70 to $1.00 per liter.
- Car rental services are available in Udaipur, with companies like Hertz and Avis offering a range of vehicles.
- When driving in Udaipur, be aware of the local traffic rules and regulations, and watch out for pedestrians, cyclists, and animals on the road.
- Parking in Udaipur can be challenging, especially in the old city area, so be prepared to park your vehicle in a designated parking lot or area.
Transport Tips
- Always haggle when taking a taxi or auto-rickshaw, as the driver may quote a higher price.
- Use a reliable taxi service or ride-hailing app to avoid scams and overcharging.
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
- Download the Ola or Uber app to book a ride-hailing service.
- Learn some basic Hindi phrases, like "kahaan hai" (where is) and "kitna hai" (how much), to help you navigate.
- Avoid traveling during peak hours (7-9 am and 4-6 pm) to avoid traffic congestion.
- Keep small change handy, as not all taxi drivers or shopkeepers may accept large bills.
- Be respectful of local traffic rules and regulations, and avoid littering or throwing trash on the road.