How long does it take to walk through the Bhattiyani Chohatta bazaar?

A focused walk takes about 30 minutes, but if you stop to shop for textiles and visit the Jagdish Temple, you should allow at least 90 to 120 minutes for the full experience.

Is the Bhattiyani Chohatta area safe for solo travelers?

Yes, it is very safe. The area is constantly busy with locals and tourists. However, be mindful of your surroundings due to the narrow streets and frequent motorcycle traffic.

Where can I find the best views of Lake Pichola on this walk?

The best views are found at Stop 7 (Jheel's Cafe) for a casual vibe, Stop 8 (Upre) for a rooftop perspective, and Stop 9 (Ambrai Ghat) for a close-up lakeside experience.

Can I visit Jagdish Temple during this self-guided walk?

Absolutely. Jagdish Temple is a public place of worship located at Stop 5. It is free to enter, though you must remove your shoes and dress modestly.

What should I buy in the Bhattiyani Chohatta market?

The area is famous for 'Pichwai' paintings, camel leather goods, silver jewelry, and traditional Rajasthani textiles like Bandhani. It is a great place for authentic souvenirs.

Is the route accessible for people with mobility issues?

Unfortunately, the old city section of Udaipur is quite challenging due to narrow, uneven streets and high traffic volume. The later stops near the luxury resorts are much more accessible.

What is the best time of day to start this walk?

Starting around 3:30 or 4:00 PM is ideal. This allows you to explore the markets in the afternoon and reach the lakeside stops just in time for a spectacular sunset.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Udaipur, often called the City of Lakes, reveals its most authentic self within the narrow, winding lanes of the old city. This self-guided walking route takes you through the heart of Bhattiyani Chohatta, a neighborhood that serves as a living museum of Mewari culture, commerce, and cuisine. Starting near the city's transport hub and winding toward the serene banks of Lake Pichola, this neighborhood stroll offers a sensory journey through centuries of history. You will encounter everything from legendary dining halls serving bottomless thalis to 17th-century havelis that have been painstakingly restored into boutique retreats. This area is named after the Bhatti clan of Rajasthan, and its streets are lined with shops selling vibrant textiles, intricate miniature paintings, and traditional silver jewelry. As you explore independently, the transition from the bustling, spice-scented bazaars to the tranquil, upscale lakefront reflects the dual nature of Udaipur: a city that is simultaneously a rugged desert outpost and a refined royal sanctuary. This walking tour Udaipur experience highlights the architectural evolution of the region, from the towering spires of Jagdish Temple to the modern luxury of world-renowned lakeside resorts. Whether you are a food enthusiast looking for the perfect paratha or a photography lover seeking the golden hour glow on the City Palace, this route provides the flexibility to discover Udaipur's secrets at your own pace. Along the way, you will see how local life revolves around the 'Chowks' or public squares, which remain the social anchors of the community. By the time you reach the final stops near the banks of Lake Pichola, you will have experienced the full spectrum of Udaipur’s charm, from its gritty, vibrant street life to its most polished and peaceful corners. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

Authentic Rajasthani thali experience at the legendary Natraj Dining Hall

Intricate carvings and spiritual energy of the 17th-century Jagdish Temple

Shopping for traditional Mewari textiles and handicrafts in Bhattiyani Chohatta

Panoramic views of Lake Pichola and the City Palace from Ambrai Ghat

Heritage architecture of converted havelis like Jagat Niwas Palace

The evolution of Udaipur's luxury at the world-famous Oberoi Udaivilas

Tour Stops (15)

Natraj Dining Hall And Restaurant

Start your journey at a local institution. Natraj is famous across Rajasthan for its authentic, unlimited Thali. Since 1970, this spot has been a favorite for locals and travelers alike. The atmosphere is no-frills and fast-paced, reflecting the genuine spirit of Udaipur's culinary scene. Here, you can taste traditional dishes like Dal Baati Churma, Gatte ki Sabzi, and various seasonal vegetable preparations. It is a perfect introduction to the flavors of the region. Note that the menu changes daily based on what is fresh, so every visit offers a slightly different taste of Mewar.

Sai Baba Paratha Centre

Just a short walk away is a legendary street food stall. Sai Baba Paratha Centre is a testament to Udaipur's love for hearty, handmade flatbreads. Watch as the cooks skillfully stuff dough with potatoes, paneer, or cauliflower before frying them to golden perfection on a large iron tawa. Served with a dollop of butter and spicy pickles, these parathas are a staple for the city's students and workers. It is a vibrant, smoky, and delicious stop that captures the energy of Udaipur’s morning and evening food culture.

Bhatiyani Chohatta

You are now entering the heart of the Bhattiyani Chohatta bazaar. This street is historically significant as it was named after the Bhatti queens of the royal family. As you walk, notice the architecture of the old buildings; many feature 'jharokhas' or overhanging enclosed balconies. The shops here are a treasure trove for those interested in local crafts. Look for 'Pichwai' paintings—intricate artworks on cloth that depict scenes from the life of Lord Krishna. The area is a hub for leather goods, specifically camel leather journals and bags, which are a specialty of this neighborhood.

Jagat Niwas Palace Hotel

Step into the Jagat Niwas Palace to see a stunning example of a 17th-century haveli. This mansion has been restored to preserve the classic Mewari style, featuring white lime-plastered walls and intricate tile work. Even if you aren't staying here, the courtyard and the view from the lakeside windows offer a glimpse into the aristocratic lifestyle of old Udaipur. The hotel is situated right on the edge of Lake Pichola, providing one of the most romantic vistas in the city. It serves as a peaceful sanctuary away from the bustling market noise you just left behind.

Jagdish Chowk

This central square is the spiritual and social pulse of the old city. Dominated by the massive Jagdish Temple, the 'Chowk' is always buzzing with activity. You will see flower sellers, local elders chatting on stone benches, and rickshaws navigating the narrow turns. The temple itself, built by Maharana Jagat Singh in 1651, is a masterpiece of Indo-Aryan architecture. Take a moment to look up at the 'shikhara' or spire, which is covered in detailed carvings of dancers, elephants, and celestial musicians. The energy here is particularly high during the evening 'Aarti' or prayer ceremony.

Jagdish Temple Road

Walking down this road, you are surrounded by some of the most photographed storefronts in Udaipur. This stretch is famous for its vibrant textiles, including 'Bandhani' (tie-dye) and 'Leheriya' (striped) fabrics. Many of the shops have been run by the same families for generations. As you browse, you might see artists at work on miniature paintings, using brushes made from just a few squirrel hairs to achieve incredible detail. This road connects the spiritual hub of the temple to the commercial heart of the lakeside, making it a vital artery of the city.

Jheel’s Ginger Coffee Bar & Bakery

For a change of pace, stop at Jheel’s Ginger. This cafe represents the modern, bohemian side of Udaipur. Tucked away in a narrow alley leading to the water, it offers a quiet balcony overlooking the lake. It is a favorite spot for travelers to rest and journal. The bakery is known for its fresh cookies and ginger tea, providing a Western-style comfort with an unmistakably Indian view. The sight of local laundry being washed on the ghats below, juxtaposed with the luxury hotels across the water, perfectly captures the city's layered reality.

Upre

Upre, located on the terrace of Lake Pichola Hotel, offers one of the best vantage points in the city. From here, the City Palace looks like a giant sandcastle rising from the water. The word 'Upre' simply means 'upstairs' or 'above' in the local dialect. This spot is particularly beautiful as the sun begins to set and the palace lights begin to twinkle. It highlights how Udaipur's topography—a mix of hills and water—has dictated its architectural growth. The view from here explains why the city is often compared to Venice.

Ambrai Restaurant

Located at Hanuman Ghat, Ambrai is situated at the water's edge. This area, known as Ambrai Ghat, is where locals come to enjoy the breeze and the view of the Lake Palace. The restaurant and the surrounding ghat offer a ground-level perspective of the water that is quite different from the rooftop views. You are now on the opposite side of the main bazaar, looking back at the skyline you just walked through. It is an ideal place to observe the reflection of the white city in the blue waters of Lake Pichola.

Qalaa - Art Bar & Coffeehouse

Qalaa is a newer addition to Udaipur’s cultural map, blending the city’s artistic heritage with a contemporary 'art bar' concept. The space often hosts local artists and musicians, acting as a bridge between traditional Mewari art and modern creative expressions. The decor often features local stone and recycled materials, reflecting a growing consciousness toward sustainable design in the city. It is a great example of how Udaipur’s youth are reimagining heritage spaces for a new generation while keeping the 'Qalaa' or 'Art' at the forefront.

Khamma Ghani Restaurant

Moving toward the Rang Sagar lake area, Khamma Ghani offers a more traditional, expansive dining environment. The name is a classic Rajasthani greeting, and the restaurant is designed like a traditional garden palace. It showcases the 'Rajputana' style of hospitality, with low seating and ornate carvings. This area of the city is slightly quieter than the main Jagdish Chowk, allowing you to appreciate the lake views without the constant hum of the bazaar. It represents the city's expansion into more relaxed, garden-style layouts.

Poppy by Royal Repast | Heritage Kitchen & Bar

This stop is a treat for history buffs. Poppy is run by the Bedla family, who served as the official cooks for the Mewar royal family for centuries. The recipes here are often closely guarded family secrets that have been passed down through generations. The 'Bedla Karan'—a unique style of meat preparation—is a must-mention. Dining or visiting here is like stepping into a private royal kitchen. The walls are often adorned with photographs and memorabilia from the family’s long history of service to the Maharanas, offering a very personal look at Udaipur's royal history.

Radisson Blu Palace Resort & Spa, Udaipur

As we move toward the edge of Fatehsagar Lake, we see the modern face of Udaipur's luxury. The Radisson Blu Palace is designed to mimic the grand architecture of the historic palaces but on a massive, contemporary scale. It features the domes and arches that characterize the city's skyline. This area marks the transition from the dense, historic 'Old City' to the more spacious, resort-heavy developments. It highlights how the city continues to draw inspiration from its royal past to fuel its current status as a global wedding and luxury destination.

The Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur

Frequently voted as one of the best hotels in the world, the Udaivilas is a marvel of modern construction built on the 200-year-old hunting grounds of the Maharana. While the interior is private, its presence on the banks of Lake Pichola is iconic. The resort features intricate ripples of fountains, reflecting pools, and domes that are visible from across the lake. It represents the pinnacle of the 'New Udaipur'—a place where the grandeur of the past is recreated with 21st-century precision and luxury. It is a symbol of the city's enduring allure.

Trident, Udaipur

Our journey ends at the Trident, which sits adjacent to the Udaivilas. Spread over 43 acres, the hotel is built with the local 'Jharokha' style and surrounded by lush gardens. This area provides a final, peaceful look at the landscape of Udaipur—a city defined by its relationship with water and the surrounding Aravalli Hills. From here, you can see the contrast between the wilder, green hills and the white, structured beauty of the city. It is a fitting end to a walk that has taken you from a simple thali hall to the gates of global luxury.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Bhattiyani Chohatta route is widely considered the best for foodies. It starts with the famous Natraj Thali and moves through street food spots like Sai Baba Paratha before ending at high-end heritage kitchens like Poppy.