Private Walking Tour: Walk Into the Lives of Udaipur's Artisians

Udaipur, the Venice of the east, has always been known for its royal history and rich heritage. The by-lanes of the city has more tradition and culture hidden within them and the aim for this tour is to gain insight into these treasures. The exquisite forms of art and crafts are very much an attribute that adds to the charm of this place. Udaipur has artisans who are proud descendants of the skilled craftsmen of the royal age. The expertise and finesse of artistry are ingrained deep within these artisans.

This guided walking tour of 2.5 hours begins at the Gangaur Ghat, a very significant spot located on the waterfront of Lake Pichola. Named after the colourful Gangaur festival of Rajasthan, this lake is close to prominent places like Bagore ki Haveli museum and the ancient Jagdish temple. 

Exploration of the artistic treasures of the city begins with a walk through the gullies and you get to witness different forms of art, some of which boasts of being from the age of the maharajas. Artisans specialize in different arts and crafts such as leaf plates and bowls which are perfect eco-friendly substitutes of the ceramic and plastic ones. Meet weavers who can make anything from baskets to walls out of bamboo. Workspaces of skilled clay potters and metal smiths who work on gold, silver or iron will definitely be a delightful experience. Watch artisans paint pots and objects of clay in colourful traditional designs and take home your favourite pieces as souvenirs.

You can also visit a few herbal medicine shops that are owned by villagers and tribal folks who learned about secret ingredients and remedies from their ancestors. The ever colourful state of Rajasthan cannot cross our minds without an image of the region’s vibrant attires, hence your trail takes you through the markets of delicate handmade traditional wear or colourful accessories. The best way that Rajasthan’s folk tales are told is through “Kathputli” or puppetry. Get your own colourful puppets from vendors in the streets and deck up your homes with beautiful memories.

The city is home to some of the most talented artisans, many of whom has earned global recognition. Traditional painting styles such as Pichwai is unique and exquisite, and this form of art is what you would behold while touring through the streets of this colourful city. This experience is bound to take you back in time and give you a wonderful insight of the traditional art forms that are part of Rajasthan’s rich heritage.