What To Buy In Udaipur, India

what to buy in udaipur
Payal
Payal 
Updated
| 6 min read

A getaway for extravagant romantics, there is an unparalleled charm in this quaint city that is popularly known as the city of lakes, snuggles in the heart of Lake Pichola. Udaipur, Rajasthan in India boasts of scenic views, inexplicable charisma, and awe-inspiring culture, there are serene temples, flamboyant Havelis (ornate residences at grand scales), twisted streets oozing elegance and food that will leave you licking your fingers clean. From handcrafted goods to beautiful jewelry to detailing in decor to breathtaking paintings and so much more, you will have a hard time choosing and picking between your favorites in this scenic city! Taking home with you a piece of the ultimate wedding destination full of art, heritage hotels, countryside persona and inviting shopping, here is what to buy in Udaipur, India! Browse through for souvenirs you absolutely have to have on your next visit to this magical city!

1. Kathputli (puppet)


Dressed in bright colors that capture your eyes instantly, these wooden dolls are crafted to pure perfection. Attached with strings to enable movement for regional artists - a community of agricultural workers called the Bhats, that specialize in the art of puppetry are often found entertaining through the late evening with skits, plays and often traditional music with the kathputlis. With practice, you too can enjoy this form of art that goes way back in time but is still making popular rounds all around Rajasthan.

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2. Local jewelry


Known for exquisite designs that boast beauty, elegance, and poise, jewelry in Udaipur is handcrafted by local craftsmen and women that have perfected the art of detailing over decades and some through their family line as well. The difference between Polki, Kundan and Meenakari lie in the style of design. Polki is made from raw, unprocessed diamonds that are uncut and untouched with any chemicals from labs or factories, it is 100 percent naturally mined making it relatively more expensive whereas Kundan is glass stones embedded in gold making it more affordable buy. Meenakari much like Kundan is infused colors over metals to create intricate, delicate and ornamental patterns in jewelry and is often found in a category that brings the two together known as Meenakari Kundan. You can shop this at boutiques that have been in the business since the inception of these art forms or take a tour around night markets to stock up your vanity.

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3. Antiques


With a city that is so rich in culture and heritage, it is perfectly fitting to indulge in antique pieces that you can find here in abundance. From street market vendors to large scale showrooms, antiques here will leave you marveling at the stories that come with them. Take a trip to the local HatiPole markets if you are in the mood for some bargaining or head to Target Handicrafts, a lovely store with tons of unique pieces at display and up for sale.

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4. Danka cushion covers


Going back 400 years, this unique form of artistic decoration is designed with metal turned into thin lines to be delicately embroidered into rich fabrics like silk, chiffon, and satin. A number of stores and dealers have a variety of offerings at different price points so there absolutely a perfect fluffy pillow for everyone looking for one! A glamorous and luxurious touch, Danka cushion covers will elevate any part of your home in a second!

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5. Stone art

"Om Namah Shivay" Happy Maha Shivratri :)

Posted by Art Stone Gallery on Saturday, 5 March 2016

Stone crafts in this charming city match up to its hype. They are unique, detailed and crafted with careful attention that requires unimaginable precision. Coming in forms of sculptures, centerpieces, ornaments or even little paperweights and candle stands, they are the perfect addition to your home and make for an ideal souvenir to remember the city by! Pay a visit to Art Stone Gallery to truly experience a magical but authentic escape into stone art.

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6. Wall clocks

The most unique way to decorate your wall... #ethnicclockmakers #clocks #udaipur #celebrationmall #celebrationmalludaipur

Posted by Forum Celebration Mall, Udaipur on Saturday, 9 April 2016

You can find traditional wall clocks here that simply impress you with their grandeur. The specialty of these wall clocks is also that they are offered in semi-precious metals like silver but if you are looking for something simpler and lighter to put into your suitcase, there are ornamental options in wood that are spectacular and will have you wanting more!

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7. Leather goods

Posted by Udaipur Leather Art on Monday, 12 September 2016

Leather goods in Udaipur are in large numbers, you can find little wallets, large totes or even traditional shoes! They are available in street markets in large quantities and varieties but the large scale branded stores too have plenty to offer. However, the street markets are likely to give you a better bargain for them especially if you are looking at gifting in large numbers!

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8. Sculptures and paintings

Wall painting on an udaipur street.

Posted by Swadesh स्वदेश on Monday, 15 April 2019

You will find meaningful sculptures and paintings here that are depictions of and strongly resonate with the traditional cultural values that are a still strong part of this vibrant city. A true masterpiece of diversity and cultural enrichment, if you are lucky you will be able to witness local artists at work. There is a different aura around the paintings and sculptures here, they are truly unique and unlike any other.

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9. Ethnic Sarees

Indian Saree
Source: Pixabay

One of the things Udaipur is known for is their Ethnic sarees that comes in silk or georgette. It stands out for its silver or gold embroidered detail that comes in a variety of colors and designs. The more expensive variety of ethnic sarees boasts delicate beadwork and is worn during celebrations or events, like weddings and parties. Ethnic sarees sell at a starting price of 6.99 USD depending on the type of fabric and work.

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10. Pagdis (Turbans)

Maharana of Udaipur Arvind Singh Mewar
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Frankie Fouganthin used under CC BY-SA 3.0

If you’re the type to who enjoys hat wear or styling your hair with accessories or even know a couple of friends who do so, a trip to Udaipur would show you where to get the best Pagdis or turbans. Pagdis is symbolic in Indian fashion for pride and is a common accessory worn by men in special events like weddings or family functions. These fascinating turbans come in a range of colors and prints, and are very versatile in design, suiting one or the other’s style.

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11. Mojadis (Footwear)

mojadi, jaisalmer
Source: Photo by user nevil zaveri used under CC BY 2.0

Those who are fond of shoes should check out flea markets and shoe shops for a great selection of authentic Udaipur designed footwear called Mojadis. This is a stylish and uniquely designed pair of shoes that you can just slip on, great for those who like to add an accent to their basic outfit. It’s made from leather and other types of textures that come in a variety of colors and prints. Mojadis can be worn by anyone, men, women, and even kids are all meant to wear this one of a kind piece of footwear.

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12. Tapestries and Wall Hangings

Farwayart-Hand-Embroidery-Mandala-tapestry
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Sr3207 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

A great piece of Udaipur to bring back home from your trip is a lovely piece of wall art or wall hanging. Otherwise known as “Mandala” Tapestry”, these kinds of wall hangings have become a popular home decor all over the world, not just in India. Tapestries from Udaipur come in authentic designs, unique prints, with a wide selection available in sizes and fabrics. Prices start at 13.97 USD which may also depend due to the size and material used for the wall hanging. It serves as a great accent to a home, giving bare white walls a more “royal look” in a backdrop.

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13. Traditional Rajasthani Attires

Rajasthani man dressed in traditional attire at Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur
Source: Photo by user Sankara Subramanian used under CC BY 2.0

When exploring Udaipur, make your way to Rajasthan and go gallivanting in the market streets for authentic attires to bring home as great memorabilia from your India trip. A great suggestion is a piece of traditional Rajasthani attire, which tourists can find in a wide variety. Some of these attires include dupattas, ghagras, and other pristine dresses for events and celebrations. Prices usually depend on the fabric and embroidery on the garment, so be keen in choosing which you would actually wear in wedding functions and other forms of gathering.

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Carry an extra bag to Udaipur

Udaipur, Ahar, cenotaphs
Source: Photo by user Arian Zwegers used under CC BY 2.0

There is so much to do, see and buy, in this gorgeous of the city of lakes, cultures, and traditions. One trip here and it is assured that you will be keen to bring home some of it in your backpacks along. Make it a memorable time and keep the memories as you pick and choose from the list above of everything you can treasure on your trip to Udaipur, Rajasthan.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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