Shopping in Udaipur

One can think of many reasons as to why the famous British administrator, James Tod, referred to
Udaipur as "the most romantic spot on the continent of India”.

Better known as the “City of Lakes”, Udaipur is located on the southernmost part of Rajasthan, near
the border surrounding Gujarat.

The city is rich in tradition and history, and is home to magnificent palaces and forts, and can offer a
great learning experience. Udaipur was founded by Maharana Udai Singh II in 1558 and was part of
the Rajput empire before it came under British colonial rule.

It boasts of several sparkling lakes such as Lake Pichola and Jaisamand Lake, covered by a breath-
taking view of the Aravalli Hills. It is a major tourist spot for its rich culture and heritage, and its
fantastic architecture implemented in temples, forts, palaces and galleries.

The best way to get hands-on experience of the local culture and overall vibe is to spend a day
shopping for local and handmade products.

We have compiled a list of the best places to shop in Udaipur.

1. Rajasthali - The Shopaholic’s Dream

Hailed as the true shopper’s paradise, the shops in Rajasthali showcase a plethora of options when it
comes to buying a souvenir. From adorable puppets to fashionable footwear to leather-bound
journals to handcrafted jewellery, Rajasthali has it all.

You can also find some government-sanctioned emporiums near Jagdish Temple, which sell
handicraft items that represent the true essence and vibe of Rajasthan.

But items here are sold at fixed prices, so your bargaining skills won’t work here.

Timings - 10:30 AM to 7 PM

Closed - The emporium will be closed on Sundays

Rajasthali is easily accessible and can be reached using any means of local transport.

2. Lake Palace Road - The Ultimate Street-Shopping Experience

Famous for its superior quality textiles and wooden statues, the shops here sell handicraft items at
low prices, which can be brought down further if you how to persuade.

It is quite understandable that people equate items and collectibles available on the streets as being
flimsy and unreliable, but the quality of products such as embroidered carpets, wooden statues, etc
are renowned throughout the country.
This place is much more suited for women, as they will find it more appealing because you will find
the latest trends in fashion as well as traditional Rajasthani embroidered clothes and batik and hand-
printed clothes here. Moreover, different varieties of handmade and Kundan jewellery are sold here.

It is sure that you will have a tough time choosing what to buy, especially because almost everything
is desirable and affordable!

It is undoubtedly one of the best experiences in Udaipur, and is highly recommended.

Timings: 10 AM to 6:30 PM

Closed: The market will be closed on Sundays

The best way to reach the shops in Lake Palace Road is by auto rickshaw.

3. Bapu Bazaar – For street-food lovers

Situated at Bapu Bazaar Road, Bapu Bazaar is a busy market buzzing with activity every single hour.

From enthusiastic vendors to potters to awe-struck tourists found here, there is rarely a dull
moment in Bapu Bazaar.

Almost everything is sold here ranging from school uniforms, crockery, khadi products, gadgets and
anything else you can think of.

The highlight of Bapu Bazaar is the mouth-watering Rajasthani street food sold in tiny stalls, where
you can curb your hunger on some delicious sohan halwas or scrumptious gol-gappas.

But, it is advisable to visit here early in the morning, as the busy nature of the market might be
overwhelming for some.

Closed: The market will be closed on Sundays

It is located on Bapu Bazaar Road, and is 1.8 km from City Palace, hence public transport or taxi will
be suitable.

Shopping in the street and at the local marketplace will surely test how you bargain, and also
provide you with some great memories, particularly if you plan to go with your gang of friends or
family.

There are a lot of things you will learn from travelling, and one that you will surely take home from a
vacation to Udaipur is to keep your tradition and culture alive.