UDAIPUR

By Air - The nearest airport (Dabok Airport) in Udaipur is called the Maharana Pratap Airport which is situated about 20 kilometres away from the city centre. It is well-connected by air to all major cities in India including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Jaipur. 

By Rail - Udaipur lies on a vast network of rail that connects it to major cities in India such as Jaipur, Delhi, Kolkata, Indore, Mumbai and Kota. Some of the popular trains that run daily are Mewar Express, Gwalior-Udaipur Express, Bandra-Udaipur SF Express, Chetak Express and Annanya Expres. In fact, the famous and luxurious Palace of Wheels also makes a scheduled stop in Udaipur.

By Bus - There is a very well-established bus service network to Udaipur, linking it to several cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Indore, Kota and Ahmedabad, among others. There are a number of options when it comes to travelling by bus. These include deluxe buses, air-conditioned coaches and State-run transport.

By Road - Udaipur is connected to Delhi and Mumbai by National Highway 8 (NH 8). The drive is about 10-11 hours long and covers a distance of roughly 700 kilometres from both the cities. Many tourists visiting Udaipur prefer to drive on their own. If one doesn’t wish to use personal vehicle, there are several tour operators that provide vehicles on hire. Alternatively, one can also hire chauffeur-driven vehicles for travelling to Udaipur.

Local Transport - Hiring a cab for a day is a good idea. Travelling via three wheelers is an easy option and relatively cheaper too. While auto rickshaws and taxis are readily available in Udaipur, make sure to negotiate the fare beforehand. Drivers tend to overcharge, especially during peak season. For tours of the old city, walking is a good option since roads are narrow and congested with traffic moving quite slowly.
 

Udaipur, often referred to as the "City of Lakes" and "Venice of the East," is renowned for its rich culinary tradition. Here are some famous traditional dishes and places to eat in Udaipur:

1. Dal Baati Churma:

   - Specialty: A traditional Rajasthani meal consisting of baked dough balls (baati), lentil curry (dal), and coarsely ground wheat sweet (churma).

   - Where to Try: Popular places to enjoy Dal Baati Churma in Udaipur include Natraj Dining Hall and Ambrai Restaurant.

2. Makhaniya Lassi:

   - Specialty: A thick and creamy yogurt-based drink flavored with saffron and dry fruits.

   - Where to Try: Jaiwana Haveli Rooftop Restaurant and Vinod Restaurant are known for their delicious Makhaniya Lassi.

3. Gatte Ki Sabzi:

   - Specialty: A Rajasthani curry made from gram flour (besan) dumplings served in a yogurt-based gravy.

   - Where to Try: Do not miss Gatte Ki Sabzi at local eateries like Ambrai Restaurant and Jaiwana Haveli Rooftop Restaurant.

4. Laal Maas:

   - Specialty: A fiery and flavorful mutton curry made with red chili peppers and spices.

   - Where to Try: Dine at Neelam Restaurant and Ambrai Restaurant for their delicious Laal Maas.

5. Paneer Tikka:

   - Specialty: Marinated and grilled cottage cheese skewers.

   - Where to Try: The Savage Garden and 1559 AD serve mouthwatering Paneer Tikka among other North Indian delights.

6. Daal Baati Choorma:

   - Specialty: A traditional Rajasthani thali featuring Daal Baati Churma along with other local delicacies.

   - Where to Try: Jaiwana Haveli Rooftop Restaurant and Ambrai Restaurant offer this hearty thali.

7. Rajasthani Thali:

   - Specialty: A platter that includes a variety of Rajasthani dishes like dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and more.

   - Where to Try: Experience the Rajasthani Thali at Ambrai Restaurant and Jaiwana Haveli Rooftop Restaurant.

8. Poha:

   - Specialty: Flattened rice cooked with spices and topped with sev (crunchy noodles).

   - Where to Try: Sample Poha at local breakfast joints and street food stalls.

9. Malai Kulfi:

   - Specialty: Creamy Indian ice cream flavored with cardamom and topped with chopped dry fruits.

   - Where to Try: Jaiwana Haveli Rooftop Restaurant and Natraj Dining Hall serve delightful Malai Kulfi.

10. Ambrai Restaurant:

    - Specialty: Offers a serene dining experience by the lakeside with a view of the City Palace and Lake Pichola.

    - Where to Try: Ambrai Restaurant is renowned for its Rajasthani and North Indian cuisine and romantic ambiance.

11. 1559 AD:

    - Specialty: Set in a historic haveli, it serves a fusion of traditional Rajasthani and contemporary dishes.

    - Where to Try: Visit 1559 AD for an elegant dining experience in a heritage setting.

Exploring these traditional dishes and dining at these establishments will provide you with an authentic taste of Udaipur's rich culinary heritage while enjoying the city's beautiful surroundings.