Introduction: Beyond the Lakes and Palaces
Udaipur — the “City of Lakes” — is one of India’s most romantic and picturesque destinations. Tourists from around the world come to witness its royal palaces, shimmering lakes, and grand architecture. But behind the glamour of City Palace, Lake Pichola, and Fateh Sagar, lies another side of Udaipur — a collection of hidden gems that few travelers ever see.
If you’re someone who loves exploring offbeat paths, discovering quiet corners, and experiencing authentic local culture, this article is for you. With Red Apple Cabs, your trusted taxi service in Udaipur, you can comfortably explore these lesser-known but equally mesmerizing spots at your own pace.
Let’s uncover Udaipur’s best-kept secrets, from forgotten stepwells and art villages to peaceful lakes and hilltop temples.
🌄 1. Badi Lake – The Serene Escape
While most tourists flock to Fateh Sagar, locals often head to Badi Lake for peace and solitude. Located just 12 km from the city center, Badi Lake (also known as Jiyan Sagar) was built by Maharana Raj Singh I to counter the effects of drought in the 17th century.
The calm waters surrounded by the Aravalli Hills make this lake a perfect spot for meditation, photography, and relaxation.
Don’t Miss:
- A short hike to Bahubali Hill, which offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the lake and nearby villages.
- Sunrise and sunset photography — the reflections are magical!
Travel Tip: Red Apple Cabs can take you directly to the hilltop parking area, avoiding steep and uneven trails.
🕍 2. Ahar Cenotaphs – The Forgotten Royal Heritage
Just a few kilometers east of the city lies Ahar, a site of royal cenotaphs built in honor of the Maharanas of Mewar. This hidden architectural wonder features over 250 marble chhatris (domed pavilions) that resemble miniature temples.
Though lesser-known among tourists, Ahar is a peaceful and historic site that tells the story of Mewar’s royal legacy.
Nearby Attraction: The Ahar Archaeological Museum, which houses pottery, sculptures, and artifacts dating back to 1700 BCE.
Best Time to Visit: Morning hours for great light and fewer crowds.
🎨 3. Shilpgram – The Rural Arts & Crafts Village
About 3 km west of Fateh Sagar, Shilpgram (meaning “Craftsmen’s Village”) is a cultural haven for art lovers. Spread across 70 acres, this rural complex showcases the traditional lifestyles of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Goa, and Maharashtra.
Visitors can see live pottery demonstrations, buy handcrafted jewelry, enjoy Rajasthani folk music, and even ride camels.
Highlight: The annual Shilpgram Utsav in December, featuring artisans and performers from across India.
Pro Tip: Hire a Red Apple Cab for a half-day tour — you can pair Shilpgram with Sajjangarh Palace and Fateh Sagar in one route.
🌅 4. Bahubali Hills – Udaipur’s Instagram Heaven
Located near Badi Lake, Bahubali Hills has quickly become a favorite among photographers and travel bloggers. The short trek to the hilltop rewards you with an unbelievable 360-degree view of Udaipur’s natural landscape — blue lakes surrounded by green hills and golden sunsets.
Ideal Time: Sunrise or sunset
Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate hike (20–30 minutes)
Tip: Carry water and wear comfortable shoes.
Fun Fact: Despite its name, Bahubali Hill isn’t linked to the movie — it’s named after a nearby village.
🏰 5. Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary – Nature in the Aravallis
Most tourists visit Sajjangarh Palace (Monsoon Palace) for its sunset views, but few realize that the palace sits within a wildlife sanctuary covering 5 sq km.
The Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary is home to peacocks, sambars, wild boars, and various bird species. You can enjoy a short jungle safari or nature walk along the designated trails.
Red Apple Cabs Tip: Combine your visit with Sajjangarh Palace during late afternoon — explore the sanctuary first, then head to the palace for a sunset view.
🪔 6. Jagat Temple – The Khajuraho of Mewar
Located 50 km from Udaipur, Ambika Mata Temple in Jagat is a masterpiece of ancient Indian architecture. Often called the “Khajuraho of Mewar”, it features intricate stone carvings dedicated to Goddess Ambika (Durga).
Built in the 10th century, this temple remains beautifully preserved and relatively untouched by mass tourism.
Why Visit:
- One of Rajasthan’s oldest surviving temples.
- Peaceful surroundings ideal for spiritual travelers.
Travel Note: Red Apple Cabs offers comfortable one-day round trips to Jagat, combining it with Eklingji and Nagda temples.
🌾 7. Bhuvana Hill – Hidden Trekking Spot
For adventure enthusiasts, Bhuvana Hill offers an easy but scenic trek located about 6 km from the city. The trail passes through small villages, rocky paths, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking Udaipur.
At the summit, you’ll find the small Bhuvaneshwar Temple and stunning views of the entire cityscape.
Best Time: Early morning or late evening
Recommended For: Nature lovers, trekkers, and photographers.
Travel Tip: Red Apple Cabs can drop you at the trailhead and pick you up post-hike for a hassle-free experience.
🪶 8. Neemach Mata Temple – The Hilltop Shrine
Often called “Udaipur’s Vaishno Devi”, Neemach Mata Temple sits atop a hill on the eastern shore of Fateh Sagar Lake. The temple offers panoramic views of Udaipur’s skyline, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Visitors can reach the temple by a 900-meter uphill trek or via a short drive up the hill road.
Special Attraction: The annual Navratri Fair draws locals for devotional music and community festivities.
Tip: Visit around 6 AM for a peaceful atmosphere and cool breeze.
🧿 9. Pratap Gaurav Kendra – The Pride of Mewar
Located near Tiger Hills, Pratap Gaurav Kendra is a modern museum and cultural center dedicated to Maharana Pratap, the legendary Rajput warrior. The centerpiece is a massive 57-foot-high bronze statue of the Maharana on horseback.
Inside, you’ll find multimedia exhibits, animated shows, and galleries that depict the history of Mewar in a captivating way.
Timing: 9 AM – 6 PM
Perfect For: Families, history enthusiasts, and school groups.
Pro Tip: Add this stop to your Sajjangarh or Fateh Sagar route with Red Apple Cabs.
🌸 10. Ambrai Ghat – The Romantic Riverside Secret
While Lake Pichola is known for its grandeur, Ambrai Ghat (also known as Manjhi Ghat) remains one of Udaipur’s most romantic hidden spots. Located near the Ambrai Restaurant, it offers an enchanting view of the City Palace, Lake Palace, and Jag Mandir — especially when illuminated at night.
Ideal Time: Evening or early morning
Best Experience: Sunset photography or a candlelight dinner at Ambrai Restaurant.
Tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquil lake breeze.
🌅 11. Tiger Lake (Purohito Ka Talab) – The Secret Lake
One of Udaipur’s most photogenic yet lesser-known lakes, Tiger Lake (also known as Purohito Ka Talab) is located about 12 km from the city center. The drive to the lake passes through picturesque countryside, small farms, and hills.
The lake is surrounded by walking trails and picnic spots — perfect for those who want to escape the tourist rush.
Best For: Photography, cycling, and short picnics.
Travel Note: Red Apple Cabs can take you directly to the viewpoint parking area for easy access.
🧭 Plan Your Hidden Gems Tour with Red Apple Cabs
Exploring Udaipur’s hidden gems becomes even more enjoyable when you don’t have to worry about directions, parking, or schedules. With Udaipur Red Apple Taxi Service, you get:
- 🚗 Well-maintained AC taxis (Sedan, SUV, Tempo Traveller)
- 👨✈️ Experienced local drivers who know offbeat routes
- 🕘 Flexible timing — explore at your own pace
- 💰 Affordable sightseeing packages
- 📱 Easy booking via phone or WhatsApp
Popular Hidden Gems Package:
| Package Type | Duration | Vehicle | Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hidden Udaipur (Half-Day) | 4 Hours / 40 Km | Sedan | ₹1,200 |
| Hidden Udaipur (Full-Day) | 8 Hours / 80 Km | SUV | ₹2,000 |
| Badi Lake + Bahubali + Sajjangarh | 1 Day | Sedan | ₹2,200 |
Contact Now:
📞 +91 97992 11293
🌐 www.udaipurredappletaxiservice.com
📧 redappletaxiservice@gmail.com
💡 Travel Tips for Exploring Udaipur’s Hidden Gems
- Start Early: Many spots like Bahubali Hill or Neemach Mata are best at sunrise.
- Pack Light: Carry water, sunscreen, and a hat.
- Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly when visiting temples or villages.
- Avoid Weekends: To enjoy peaceful surroundings, plan your visits on weekdays.
- Hire a Trusted Taxi: Local drivers from Red Apple Cabs can guide you safely through less-explored areas.
🕰️ Suggested Hidden Gems Itinerary
Morning (8 AM – 11 AM)
- Start at Badi Lake and trek to Bahubali Hill
- Visit Neemach Mata Temple for panoramic views
Afternoon (12 PM – 3 PM)
- Explore Ahar Cenotaphs and Museum
- Lunch near Fateh Sagar or Shilpgram
Evening (4 PM – 7 PM)
- Visit Ambrai Ghat for sunset
- End with dinner at a lakeside restaurant
This one-day plan gives you a blend of history, nature, and culture — without the tourist rush.
🏞️ Why Explore Hidden Udaipur
While the famous attractions showcase Udaipur’s royal side, its hidden gems reveal its soul. These quiet lakes, rural art centers, and ancient temples tell stories untouched by time.
They’re perfect for travelers who crave authentic experiences — where you can hear birds instead of horns, see locals instead of tourists, and feel connected to nature.
With Red Apple Cabs, you can go beyond guidebooks and discover the Udaipur locals love.
🧭 About Udaipur Red Apple Taxi Service
Udaipur Red Apple Taxi Service is a trusted name for both local and outstation travelers. We provide comfortable, reliable, and budget-friendly taxi services for sightseeing, airport transfers, and customized tours.
Our Services Include:
- City Sightseeing Tours
- Hidden Gems & Offbeat Routes
- Airport Pickup & Drop
- Outstation Trips (Mount Abu, Jodhpur, Kumbhalgarh, Nathdwara)
- 24/7 Taxi Availability
Why Choose Us?
- Professional, courteous drivers
- Transparent pricing
- Clean, well-maintained vehicles
- Local expertise and flexible scheduling
✨ Conclusion: Find the Real Udaipur
Udaipur isn’t just about palaces and lakes — it’s a living museum of art, faith, and beauty hidden in plain sight. The charm of Bahubali Hill’s sunsets, the silence of Ahar’s royal tombs, and the authenticity of Shilpgram’s villages reveal the city’s true spirit.
With Red Apple Cabs, you can explore these offbeat wonders comfortably and safely, guided by locals who know every corner of this royal city.
So next time you’re in Udaipur, go beyond the usual — take a journey to the unseen. Discover the hidden gems of Udaipur with Red Apple Taxi Service, and experience the city like never before.
📞 Contact Information:
Udaipur Red Apple Taxi Service
74, Gugleshwar Colony, Apni Dhani, Pratap Nagar, Udaipur, Rajasthan – 313001
📱 +91 97992 11293
🌐 www.udaipurredappletaxiservice.com
📧 redappletaxiservice@gmail.com