Would you like to have an unforgettable experience, being in the middle of a serene lake and watching the sun set behind the mountains, casting a golden glow over the royal palaces.
Doesn’t it sound like something straight out of a dream?
Well, guess what?
You can turn this dream into reality in the beautiful City of Lakes, Udaipur.
Having explored this magical city myself, I can’t wait to share insights into its most amazing experience – the boat ride. I indulged in this activity twice, soaking in every moment and gathering valuable insights along the way.
If you’re planning a trip to Udaipur, chances are a boat ride is on your list of must-dos.
In this guide, I’ll reveal all the secrets to ensure your boat ride is nothing short of extraordinary. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, I’ve got you covered with everything you need to know before taking a boat ride in Udaipur.
From the various types of boats to the best time of the day to go, along with essential details like where to catch the boat prices, timings, and other useful information.
So, Let’s dive in and uncover everything you need to know for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Udaipur.
Why Udaipur Is Called as the City of Lakes?
Udaipur earned the nickname “City of Lakes” due to its remarkable abundance of beautiful lakes, each adding a unique allure to the cityscape. These natural water bodies not only enhance Udaipur’s natural beauty but also play a significant role in the city’s culture, history, and daily life.
There are several lakes in the city such as the most famous Lake Pichola, Fatehsagar Lake, Uday Sagar Lake, Dudh Talai, Rajsamand Lake, Jaisamand Lake, and Goverdhan Sagar Lake.
These lakes not only serve as major attractions for tourists but also hold cultural, historical, and ecological importance for the residents of Udaipur.
Best Places for Boating in Udaipur
In this we’ll be looking at the top places you can go for a amazing boating experience in the City of Lakes-Udaipur.
Boat ride in Lake Pichola :
Renowned for its scenic beauty, Lake Pichola, especially during sunrise and sunset is one of the oldest and largest lakes in Udaipur, Rajasthan.
It was established in 1362 AD by Pichhu Banjara (architect of the lake) during the reign of Maharana Lakha (Great King of Udaipur).
Later, Maharana Udai Singh, delighted by the charm of this beautiful lake, decided to build the Udaipur town around it.
Fun fact – It’s an artificial lake but manages to attract the attention of the visitors due to its natural scenic beauty all around.
The lake offers views of the famous attractions of the city such as the stunning city palace, Lake palace ( now a heritage hotel), impressive island palace of Jag mandir, Gangaur ghat, royal mansions/Havelis, luxury boutique hotels, and historical Ghats of the city.
Boat Ride in Fateh Sagar Lake:
Fatehsagar Lake is the second biggest artificial lake located in the northwestern part of Udaipur, Rajasthan. constructed in 1678 by Maharana Jai Singh but was later reconstructed by Maharana Fateh Singh after it was damaged by floods.
This lake is located in the north of the lake Pichola at Moti Magri Hill.
The lake offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the city of Udaipur, making it a favorite destination for tourists and locals alike.
I chose to take a sunset boat ride at Fatehsagar Lake because it’s cheaper than Lake Pichola. Fatehsagar Lake is open from 8 am to 6 pm., and taking a boat ride is the quickest way to see it all.
There are several boat stations to choose from, depending on what’s available and what fits your budget. You can go for a public boat ride for just INR 30, or upgrade to a motorboat for INR 200.
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are speedboats too, priced at INR 200 per person for 30 minutes. Just note that the timing for speedboats might be different, usually from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
5 Things You Should Know for a Boat Ride in Udaipur – Highlights
It’s important to be aware of a few things before going for a boat ride in Udaipur. You will find some important things to keep in mind below.
1. Best Month for Boat Rides (October to June)
Choosing the right time to visit Udaipur can significantly impact your experience in this beautiful city. The optimal periods are during autumn (September to October) and winter (November to March), when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploration.
However, it’s important to avoid the scorching heat and humidity of the summer months (April to June), as it can make outdoor activities, such as boat rides and sightseeing, challenging and uncomfortable.
My visit to Udaipur during the onset of the monsoon season in July provided a unique experience. While boat rides were still possible, the lakes were fuller, altering the scenery slightly. However, the cloudy weather made it difficult to enjoy a sunset ride for the first couple of days due to obscured views.
So, when planning your trip to Udaipur, consider the season carefully to ensure the best possible experience, taking into account factors like weather conditions and the activities you wish to enjoy.
2. Different types of Boats available (and prices)
In Udaipur, you have a variety of boats to choose from, catering to your preferences. For instance, if you’re heading to Lake Pichola from inside the City Palace, you can opt for public boats, which accommodate around 20-25 people and cost approximately INR 400 per hour.
Alternatively, if you prefer a more private experience, you can book a private boat ride in advance.
These private rides offer exclusivity and flexibility, with prices ranging from INR 800 to INR 8000, depending on your requirements and the duration of the ride.
3. You can combine a Boat ride with the magical sunset
Watching the sunset from a boat is pure magic in the city. You can grab tickets at Lake Pichola for about INR 700 and see the whole town bathed in golden light.
It’s the perfect time to snap some amazing photos and admire the beauty of the city and its famous landmarks from the boat.
TIP – A sunset boat ride at Lake Pichola might cost you a bit higher price, so consider going for the ride at Fateh Sagar lake if you’ve already explored the city or you can opt to go for the ride from the Karni Mata temple boat ride spot to get a reasonable cost.
4. There are many areas available as boating points
The City Palace boating point is the top choice for boat rides, offering a trip to the majestic Jag Mandir island palace.
But there are other great starting points too, like Karni Mata, Fatehsagar Lake, and Dudh Talai Lake. Pick the one that suits your budget and preferences best.
You can choose cost-friendly ticket prices at these spots compared to lake Pichola providing you with the same scenic view.
5. Photography from the Boat: Capturing the Soul of Udaipur
For photography enthusiasts, Udaipur can prove to be a treasure to capture the city’s old charms and iconic landmarks
After discovering the historical gems of the royal forts and palaces you can combine your photography and boat ride together to capture the essence of the city, magical sunset views, and Aravalli mountains from the shimmering lakes.
Make your cameras or phones ready to take some amazing shots of the cultural views the city has to offer.
Best Tips to Consider for Boat Rides in Udaipur- The City of Lakes
1. Prices for boat rides can vary throughout the day, so plan accordingly to make the most of your budget.
2. Opt for a sunset boat ride to see the beautiful hues of colors in the sky over the Aravalli hills.
3. While Lake Pichola offers a royal ambiance with views of the City Palace and Jag Mandir at a heavy price, consider Fatehsagar Lake for a more budget-friendly sunset experience.
4. During peak season (October to March), expect heavy demand and long queues. Arrive early or consider off-peak times to avoid the rush.
5. If you’re traveling solo, opt for public rides to save some money and enjoy the company of fellow travelers.
6. For group travelers, skip booking through a private travel company. Save money by directly hiring a boat at a reasonable cost.
7. Talk with your boatman; they often have fascinating stories and insights about Udaipur’s rich history and culture. Also, please make sure you follow the safety instructions provided by the boat operator.
8. Plan your trip to the city during festivals like Diwali, Gangaur, or Holi to witness the city adorned in unique lights and colors from the water.
9. Don’t forget your essentials! Bring along sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, and a water bottle, especially during hot summer rides.
10. Last, but not the least, Help preserve the beauty of Udaipur’s lakes by avoiding littering during your ride. Keep them clean and maintain the purity of these natural wonders.
Additionally, be mindful of any local customs or etiquette while on the boat.
Boating in Udaipur: FAQs
Which Lake is better for boating in Udaipur?
 Udaipur offers boating experiences on two prominent lakes: Lake Pichola and Fateh Sagar Lake. Both lakes offer picturesque views and a serene atmosphere for boating. Lake Pichola is known for its stunning palaces and scenic surroundings, making it a popular choice for tourists. Fateh Sagar Lake, on the other hand, offers a more tranquil experience with its calm waters and beautiful islands. Ultimately, the choice between the two lakes depends on personal preference and what you hope to experience during your boating adventure.
How long is a boat ride in Udaipur?
The duration of a boat ride in Udaipur can vary depending on the type of boat ride you choose and the route taken. Typically, a standard boat ride on Lake Pichola or Fateh Sagar Lake can last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. However, there are also longer boat tours available that may last for several hours, allowing you to explore more of the lake and its surroundings. It’s best to check with the tour operators or boat rental services for specific durations based on your preferences.
What is the cost of a boating ride in Udaipur?
 The cost of a boating ride in Udaipur can vary depending on factors such as the type of boat, the duration of the ride, and any additional services included. As of my last update, a standard boat ride on Lake Pichola or Fateh Sagar Lake typically ranges from around 200 to 500 Indian Rupees per person for a basic ride. Prices may be higher for longer or more specialized tours, such as sunset cruises or private boat rentals. It’s advisable to inquire about the current rates from local boat operators or tour agencies for the most accurate pricing information.
What are the best months to visit Lake Pichola?
The best months to visit Lake Pichola in Udaipur are during the winter months, from October to March. During this time, the weather is pleasant with cooler temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities like boating. Additionally, the winter months coincide with the tourist season in Udaipur, so you can expect clearer skies, calmer waters, and fewer chances of rainfall, enhancing the overall boating experience. However, do keep in mind that this period might also see higher tourist footfall, so it’s advisable to plan your visit and book boat rides to avoid any last-minute hassles.
Boat ride in Udaipur – Final Thoughts
A boat ride in Udaipur is indeed more than just a must-do activity; it’s a unique and captivating experience that offers breathtaking views and creates plenty of cherished memories.
​ It allows you to dive into the true cultural significance of the city, giving you insights into its vibrant and lively atmosphere and helping you connect with its people on a deeper level.
It’s an experience that not only showcases the beauty of Udaipur’s landscapes but also immerses you in its rich heritage and traditions, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for this amazing city.
