Udaipur, the “Venice of the East,” was marked by its dazzling lakes and white marble palaces. For those who are looking to experience the home closeness and architectural essence of the city, the Haveli in Udaipur stands to depict a past era. These ancient homes, most of which find their nest in the narrow, twisting streets of this old city, once belonged to the Mewar nobility, royal officials, and wealthy merchants. Unlike in other places in Rajasthan, like Jodhpur with its fiery red sandstone or Jaisalmer with the golden hues, havelis are very often whitewashed in Udaipur.

Most of the havelis in Udaipur were built during the 18^th and 19^th centuries. They are built not only for aesthetic reasons but also as a clever response but also as a clever response to the geography and climate of the region. The main architectural philosophy was “Inward-looking grandeur.” A haveli may appear to be just a basic, high wall with one large wooden gate.

The key architectural features are –

• Chowk or Courtyard have separate chowks for men and women, providing both privacy and ventilation.
• Gokhdas has deeply recessed windows in which occupants may sit and observe the rain or street life.
• Mirror Work and Glass Mosaics in Sheesh Mahal can be found in the more sumptuous haveli.
• Araish Work on the walls look attractive and provides great durability.

Top Havelis in Udaipur:

Amet Haveli – It was built during the reign of Maharana Jagat Singh II, an almost 300-year-old haveli situated on Ambrai Ghat. Romantic medieval charm with massive stone walls and manicured gardens; home to the famous Ambrai Restaurant, handsdown, etc.

Kankarwa Haveli – A classic example of a “living haveli,” home to an aristocratic family for two centuries. It’s located in the Lal Ghat area and underwent comprehensive restoration in the 1990s. A multi-tiered place with stepped courtyards and steep flights of stone stairs leading up to a rooftop.

Jaiwana Haveli – The private residence of the Thakur of Jaiwana, this haveli has been converted into a boutique hotel that harnesses heritage and modern efficiency. One of the prime locations near the Jagdish Temple, travellers who wish to experience the heritage aesthetic without forgoing high-speed Wi-Fi.

Bagore ki Haveli – The haveli provides the architectural benchmark for the city. The prime minister of Mewar got this constructed during the 18^th century with over 100 rooms. Any history freak must visit to see the original glasswork, costumes, and the nighttime Dharohar traditional dance.

Luxury Stays in Udaipur:

Jagat Niwas Palace Hotel – It is a cluster of 17^th century houses that function with the intimacy of a large haveli, even though it is technically a palace. The world-famous Jharokhas, perhaps the most sensitive overhanging balconies in India, where guests can lie on cushions placed on the floor.

Madri Haveli – A 300-year-old heritage haveli has taken six years to restore. Maintaining its structural integrity using traditional materials includes the use of lime mortar and stone. The boutique rooms boast stained glass windows and rain showers.

Taj Fatehprakash Palace – A great luxury, and forms part of the City Palace complex. With haveli DNA in its courtyard-based design, one is embellished with authentic royal artefacts, large oil paintings, and a crystal chandelier borrowed from the Maharana’s private collection.

Budget Stays in Udaipur: Udaipur happens to be one of those rare places where the word “budget” does not translate to “basic.” Even in its lower price brackets, there’s tremendous heritage value.

Thamla Haveli – Thamla Haveli lies on the lake’s edge, offering a winning formula of lakeside beauty at guesthouse prices. The rooms are clean and come with authentic alcoves.

Jhilwara Haveli – A 4-star boutique haveli often offers decent rates during the shoulder season. It is renowned for its “Queen” and “Superior” rooms, featuring hand-painted murals and bright Rajasthani fabrics.

Mewar Haveli – It is designed in the traditional style and with two restaurants, one on the roof, which presents a perennial favorite among longer-term visitors. The requisite Old City feel, service is reliable, and the lake views for a fraction of the cost of its neighbours.

Tips to choose the best stay in Udaipur:

Check the availability of the havelis, which can only be accessed by auto-rickshaw or on foot. Make sure that your hotel has a pickup service from the nearest drop-off location.

The quality of a stay is often determined by the rooftop. Almost all social activities – breakfast, dinner, and evening drinks.

Many of the havelis are located close to very ancient temples. The ringing of morning and evening bells, aarti, is culturally edifying yet can be deafening.

The Lake Pichola may dry up. If you visit there in May or June, check the recent images taken by tourists to know whether “lake view” is water or a valley of grass.

Conclusion:

The Havelis in Udaipur are storytellers. They stand as a specimen of tenacious Mewar and the artistic skill of local craftsmen. Whether you’re sitting in the carved stone balcony at Jagat Niwas, sunset behind the Aravalli hills, or dining on home-cooked supper in the courtyard at Kankarwa, these heritage stays offer an intimacy and relaxation.