Budget Tour: Udaipur and Pushkar

                                             Budget Tour: Udaipur and Pushkar

A budget tour of Udaipur and Pushkar can be an enriching experience, allowing you to explore the cultural and historical gems of Rajasthan without breaking the bank. Here's a comprehensive guide to planning your trip:

Transportation:

• Getting to Udaipur:
  • By Train: Udaipur is well-connected to major Indian cities via railways. Train travel is generally the most budget-friendly option for long distances. Look for sleeper class or 3AC tickets to save money.
  • By Bus: State-run and private buses operate frequently to Udaipur from nearby cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Ahmedabad. This is often cheaper than trains, especially if you book in advance.
  • By Air: Udaipur has an airport, but flights are usually more expensive. If you choose to fly, book well in advance and consider budget airlines.
• Getting from Udaipur to Pushkar:
  • By Bus: The most economical way to travel between Udaipur and Pushkar is by bus. You'll likely need to take a bus from Udaipur to Ajmer (the closest major city to Pushkar) and then another short bus or shared taxi to Pushkar.
  • By Train: There isn't a direct train from Udaipur to Pushkar. You would need to take a train to Ajmer and then travel to Pushkar by road.
  • By Shared Taxi/Jeep: These are available but will be more expensive than buses. They can be cost-effective if you're traveling in a group.
• Local Transportation:
  • Auto-rickshaws: Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. They are convenient for short distances within the cities.
  • Cycle-rickshaws: A more traditional and eco-friendly way to get around, especially in Pushkar.
  • Walking: Many parts of Udaipur and Pushkar, especially the old cities and lake areas, are best explored on foot. This is also the cheapest way to get around.

Accommodation:

• Udaipur:
  • Hostels: Udaipur has a good selection of hostels that offer budget-friendly accommodation, often with dormitories and private rooms at reasonable prices. They are also a great place to meet other travelers. Some popular options include Zostel Udaipur, Shalom Backpackers Udaipur, and Madpackers Udaipur.
  • Guesthouses and Budget Hotels: Numerous guesthouses and budget hotels are available, especially in the areas around Lake Pichola and the City Palace. Look for places slightly away from the main tourist hubs for better deals. Websites like Booking.com, Agoda, and MakeMyTrip can help you find affordable options.
• Pushkar:
  • Hostels: Similar to Udaipur, Pushkar also has hostels catering to budget travelers. Zostel Pushkar and Madpackers Pushkar are popular choices.
  • Budget Hotels and Dharamshalas: Pushkar has many budget hotels and dharamshalas (religious rest houses) that offer basic accommodation at very low prices. These are often located near the Pushkar Lake and the main market.

Food:

• Udaipur:
  • Street Food: Explore the street food scene for delicious and inexpensive options like poha, kachori, samosas, and local sweets. The area around Jagdish Temple and the markets is good for street food.
  • Local Eateries: Look for small, local restaurants where you can enjoy Rajasthani dishes like dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and ker sangri at reasonable prices.
• Pushkar:
  • Street Food: Pushkar is famous for its malpua, a sweet pancake. You'll also find other snacks like kachori and samosas.
  • Temple Food: Many temples offer free or very cheap meals (langar) to devotees and visitors.
  • Local Restaurants: Similar to Udaipur, Pushkar has many small restaurants serving vegetarian food (as it's a holy town) at budget-friendly prices.

Sightseeing:

• Udaipur:
  • City Palace: While the entry fee can be a bit steep, it's a must-visit. Consider just visiting the main sections.
  • Lake Pichola and Fateh Sagar Lake: Enjoy the beauty of the lakes without spending much. You can take a boat ride on Lake Pichola, but opt for shared rides to save money. Fateh Sagar Lake is great for an evening stroll.
  • Jagdish Temple: This temple is free to enter and is an architectural marvel.
  • Saheliyon-ki-Bari: A beautiful garden with a nominal entry fee.
  • Bagore Ki Haveli: Visit in the evening for the Dharohar dance show, which is a good way to experience local culture (ticketed).
  • Monsoon Palace (Sajjangarh Fort): Offers panoramic views of the city. Entry fee applies.
  • Local Markets: Explore markets like Bapu Bazaar and Hathi Pol for souvenirs and local crafts. Browsing is free!
• Pushkar:
  • Pushkar Lake: The heart of the town, walking around the lake and visiting the ghats is free. Be mindful of the religious significance and dress modestly.
  • Brahma Temple: One of the few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma. Entry is free.
  • Savitri Mata Temple: You can hike up to this temple for great views of Pushkar (free) or take a ropeway (ticketed).
  • Pushkar Mela Ground (if visiting during the fair): The Pushkar Camel Fair is a unique experience, but be prepared for crowds. There might be a small entry fee during the fair.
  • Local Markets: Pushkar's markets are vibrant and offer a variety of items. Walking through them is an experience in itself.

Budgeting Tips:

• Travel during the off-season: Prices for accommodation and transport are generally lower during the summer months (April to June), although it can be very hot.
• Book in advance: Especially for trains and popular hostels, booking ahead can secure you better rates.
• Use public transport: Buses and local trains are significantly cheaper than taxis or private cars.
• Eat local: Street food and small restaurants offer the most budget-friendly meals.
• Look for free activities: Many temples, lakes, and markets can be explored without spending money.
• Bargain: In markets and for auto-rickshaw fares, bargaining is often expected.
• Travel in a group: Sharing accommodation and transport costs can help reduce individual expenses.
• Carry a water bottle: Refill it whenever possible to avoid buying bottled water frequently.
• Be flexible with your itinerary: Sometimes, changing your plans can lead to discovering cheaper options.

Sample Budget Itinerary (5-6 Days):

This is just a suggestion, and you can adjust it based on your interests and time.

•  Udaipur: Check into a budget hostel or guesthouse. Explore the area around Lake Pichola, visit Jagdish Temple, and enjoy street food in the evening.
•  Udaipur Sightseeing: Visit the City Palace (consider a partial visit), Saheliyon-ki-Bari, and take a walk around Fateh Sagar Lake. Enjoy a budget dinner at a local eatery.
•  Day trip to nearby (optional): Depending on your interests, you could take a local bus to visit nearby places like Nathdwara or Eklingji (temples). Alternatively, explore more of Udaipur.
•  Travel to Pushkar: Take a morning bus from Udaipur to Ajmer and then another bus or shared taxi to Pushkar. Check into a budget hotel or hostel in Pushkar. Explore Pushkar Lake and the ghats.
• Pushkar Exploration: Visit the Brahma Temple, hike to Savitri Mata Temple, and explore the local markets. Enjoy street food and the relaxed vibe of Pushkar.
•  Departure: Depending on your onward journey, you can depart from Pushkar (via Ajmer) or spend more time in the area.