With the city’s silhouette fading behind me, it felt only right to share my last thoughts: the flavours of the cities, the hills of Aravallis, the moments that made those 15 days feel like a dream, a dream I had dreamt a long time ago, to see his world, through his eyes. His home. I’ll be forever grateful for.
The Food: Soul of Mewar
Udaipur is a feast in every sense! I dove headfirst into plates brimming with local aloo sabzi, peas cooked with a gentle sweetness, and the signature Rajasthani Churma that seemed to melt away any trace of homesickness. Every dish from the Khichdi, Ghevar, and even the spicy Afghan Biriyani told its own story of history and heritage. The Ghevar, sweet and honeycombed, stole my heart instantly (pro tip: order it ahead at a local store!). Rajasthani thalis seemed almost endless, a parade of flavours and generosity.
Even beyond tradition, Udaipur’s cosmopolitan vibe shone through: continental breakfasts, aromatic coffees, handmade chocolates, and cakes. I’d never have thought I’d try dosa here, but Udaipur delivers even the unexpected (albeit the South Indian classics didn’t quite steal the spotlight).
A note to vegetarians: You are about to meet your culinary heaven here. Fish is rare, chicken dishes are indeed good, but for the plant- and grain-loving soul, there is no shortage of delights.
The Simplicity of Poha and Samosas
The best mornings began on street corners in Bijolia, with fresh Poha steaming, spiced, garnished with a squeeze of lime and crispy samosas handed over in paper packets. There is an everyday poetry to these meals, and more than once, I caught myself wondering if people five centuries ago also started their day like this. There’s something timeless about a breakfast that makes you feel anchored.
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| Poha |
Mewar’s Colours: Land and Light
Mewar isn’t simply beautiful, it is riotous with colour and texture, as if nature herself painted beyond the lines. On a single hill, you’ll find green, red, black, and yellow soils, a living canvas brushed by the winds and warmed by the sun. Sunrises here creep quietly over the lakes and palaces, while sunsets like the one I watched at Kumbhalgarh, spread across the sky in fierce, impossible shades. There’s nothing quite like the soft Udaipur breeze or the sound of birds beside the city’s many blue waters.
Cafés, Laughter, and Little Surprises
Hidden across Udaipur are cafés perfect for lingering over coffee and stories; a place where time slows and the city’s pulse softens. I found joy in the laughter of strangers, the comfort of a warm cake, and the simple pleasure of watching the world outside while savouring something delicious.
Some delights were entirely unexpected: a baby monkey at Sajjangarh, happily munching Lays chips beside me, or the friendly shopkeepers who helped me discover their city, or the old man in Bijoliya telling folklores one serendipitous encounter at a time.
Shopping: Treasures for Every Soul
If you love hunting for keepsakes, Udaipur will charm you endlessly. From bustling markets selling silver jewellery (I left with earrings and a maangtika) to vibrant lehengas and replica miniature paintings, you’re sure to find something special. The best part? There’s something for every budget from 20INR to 20,000INR. And for all the women reading: don’t miss out on the beautifully crafted imitation jewellery, true royal flair without the royal price.
Saying Goodbye
On my train ride back, engrossed in a book on the great Maharana of Mewar, I came across these lines:
No one would know Mewar if not for him, but if he were here, he would say, ‘I won’t be me if not for Mewar.’
Those words sank deep. In just two weeks, I’d come to love this land so fiercely; how deep, then, must the roots of those born here go?
If you find yourself drawn to Udaipur, let me know if something stirs in you too...if you laugh, weep, and lose yourself for a while under the city’s smoky sunsets and old stone palaces. Or maybe, like me, you’ll leave a small piece of your heart in Mewar, ready to dream your way back someday.
Till another journey, another remembered home, goodbye, Udaipur!
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| Hills at Udaipur |
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| Yummy Cafeterias at Udaipur |
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| Landscapes!!! |
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| Kumbhalgarh Sunset! Must watch! |
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| The Mewari Afghan Biriyani |
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| Ghevar! Remember? Aur Ghevar daliye! |
