How long does it take to walk the Udaipur Old City route?

The full route takes approximately 2 to 3 hours, including stops. However, if you include the boat trip to Jagmandir and the drive to the Monsoon Palace, you should allow for a half-day adventure.

Is the Monsoon Palace worth visiting?

Yes, it is highly recommended for the panoramic views of the city and lakes, especially at sunset. It also holds significant cinematic history as the villain's lair in the James Bond film 'Octopussy.'

Can I enter the Taj Lake Palace?

The Taj Lake Palace is a private hotel and generally only accessible to staying guests or those with a restaurant reservation. However, you can get excellent views of it from the shore and during the boat ride to Jagmandir.

Is this walking route suitable for seniors?

The route is moderate; while the Old City is walkable, the streets are narrow and can be uneven. We recommend using auto-rickshaws between some of the further stops like the Monsoon Palace to save energy.

What is the best time of day for this self-guided walk?

Starting in the mid-afternoon around 3:00 PM is best. This allows you to see the palaces in daylight and reach the Monsoon Palace just in time for the spectacular sunset.

Are there entrance fees for the stops on this route?

Yes, most stops like Bagore Ki Haveli, Jagmandir (via boat fee), and the Monsoon Palace require separate entry tickets. Always check the latest prices at the gate.

Where can I find water and restrooms along the way?

Restrooms and bottled water are readily available at the City Palace complex, Bagore Ki Haveli, and various lakeside cafes near Gangaur Ghat.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Udaipur, often hailed as the 'Venice of the East,' has long served as a muse for storytellers, from the legendary Rudyard Kipling to the cinematographers of Hollywood and Bollywood. This self-guided walk invites you to explore the intersection of history, literature, and cinema within the city's shimmering lakes and marble palaces. As you navigate the winding alleys of the Old City, you will discover why this landscape was chosen as the backdrop for the 1983 James Bond classic, 'Octopussy,' and the modern Bollywood hit, 'Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani.' This walking route is more than just a sightseeing trip; it is an independent exploration of the architectural grandeur that defines the Mewar dynasty. Your journey begins at the majestic Shiv Niwas Palace, where the crescent-shaped architecture once welcomed royal guests and later became a focal point for international film crews. From the shores of Lake Pichola, you will gaze upon the floating Taj Lake Palace, a white marble marvel that seems to drift like a mirage. This independent walking route Udaipur offers the flexibility to linger at Bagore Ki Haveli, where the intricate glasswork and traditional puppets tell a story of a bygone era. You will also learn about the literary connections of the city, including how the rugged hills and serene waters inspired Kipling's 'Letters of Marque.' As you move through the route, you will encounter the historic Jagmandir Island Palace, a site of refuge for a Mughal emperor that allegedly inspired the design of the Taj Mahal. The journey concludes at the high-altitude Monsoon Palace, offering a panoramic view of the entire Aravalli range. Whether you are a film buff or a history enthusiast, this walking tour Udaipur provides a comprehensive look at the city's most iconic landmarks at your own pace. By exploring independently, you can avoid the rush of organized groups and truly soak in the romantic atmosphere that has captivated writers and directors for centuries. Prepare to see the 'City of Lakes' through a lens of artistic heritage and cinematic wonder.

Highlights

The crescent-shaped Shiv Niwas Palace, featured in 'Octopussy'

Panoramic views of the Taj Lake Palace from the historic ghats

Traditional art and architecture at Bagore Ki Haveli

The cinematic luxury of The Oberoi Udaivilas

Jagmandir Island, the historic inspiration for the Taj Mahal

Sunset views from the Monsoon Palace, the 'villain’s lair'

Tour Stops (6)

Shiv Niwas Palace

Begin your self-guided adventure at the Shiv Niwas Palace, the crescent-shaped former residence of the Maharana of Udaipur. Built in the early 20th century, this palace combines traditional Rajput style with European influences. Cinema fans will immediately recognize it as the hotel where James Bond stays in the 1983 film 'Octopussy.' Notice the intricate ivory work and the stunning pool area where many of the movie's scenes were filmed. Beyond its Hollywood fame, the palace served as a prestigious guest house for visiting royalty and dignitaries. As you stand here, imagine the grand processions that once moved through these gates, marking the city's transition into the modern era while maintaining its regal heritage.

Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur

Looking out across the waters of Lake Pichola, you see the Taj Lake Palace, perhaps the most photographed building in India after the Taj Mahal. Built in 1746 by Maharana Jagat Singh II, it was originally a summer retreat known as Jag Niwas. Its white marble walls appear to rise directly from the water. In the world of cinema, this was the island home of the titular character Octopussy in the 007 franchise. While access to the island is restricted to guests, the view from the shore allows you to appreciate its 'floating' illusion. Literature also finds a home here; Rudyard Kipling once described the palace's beauty in his travelogues, noting how the light reflects off the marble during the golden hour.

Bagore Ki Haveli

Step into the 18th-century world of Bagore Ki Haveli, located right on the Gangaur Ghat. Built by a Prime Minister of Mewar, this haveli boasts over a hundred rooms filled with mirrors, glasswork, and traditional costumes. It serves as a vital cultural hub, preserving the folk arts of Rajasthan. For the independent traveler, the haveli offers a glimpse into the domestic life of the nobility. The courtyard often hosts puppet shows and music, reflecting the vibrant artistic spirit that Udaipur is known for. The haveli’s architecture, with its delicate jharokhas (balconies), has provided a backdrop for numerous Indian period dramas and documentaries focusing on the region's rich artistic history.

The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur

While newer than the ancient palaces, The Oberoi Udaivilas is a masterpiece of modern architecture built on the 200-year-old hunting grounds of the Mewar Maharana. It gained massive popularity recently as the primary filming location for the destination wedding in the Bollywood blockbuster 'Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani.' The hotel’s design, featuring domes and corridors inspired by the city's layout, pays homage to Udaipur’s classic aesthetic. As you explore the perimeter, you can see how modern cinema uses these grand spaces to represent the ultimate in luxury and romance. The gardens and views across Lake Pichola from this side of the bank offer a different, equally stunning perspective of the City Palace complex.

Jagmandir Island Palace

Accessible by a short boat ride, Jagmandir Island Palace is a site of immense historical significance. Built in the 17th century, it famously served as a refuge for Prince Khurram (later Emperor Shah Jahan) while he was in revolt against his father. It is widely believed that the marble carvings and the 'Gul Mahal' on this island provided the inspiration for the Taj Mahal. In 'Octopussy,' the island was used for several exterior shots of the Bond girl’s lair. Walking through the garden courtyard, flanked by massive stone elephants, you feel the weight of centuries of history. It is a place where royal intrigue and architectural innovation meet, surrounded by the tranquil waters of the lake.

Monsoon Palace

Your route concludes at the Monsoon Palace, also known as Sajjan Garh, perched high atop the Bansdara Hill. Built in 1884 to watch the monsoon clouds and provide a hilltop retreat for the Maharana, it offers the most spectacular panoramic view of Udaipur. To movie buffs, this is the 'villain’s lair'—the home of Kamal Khan in 'Octopussy.' The steep climb to the palace is rewarded with views that stretch across the lakes and the Aravalli range. It is the perfect spot to reflect on your journey through the city’s cinematic and literary past. As the sun sets, the palace glows with an orange hue, providing a dramatic end to your self-guided exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

This cinema and literature route is ideal, as it covers major filming sites for 'Octopussy' and 'Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani' while providing historical context. You can explore the Shiv Niwas Palace and the Monsoon Palace at your own pace.