Badi Lake Udaipur & Bahubali Hills: A Complete Travel Guide

Udaipur, known as the City of Lakes, is filled with romantic palaces, serene lakes, and dramatic hill views. While places like City Palace and Lake Pichola often steal the limelight, Badi Lake Udaipur & Bahubali Hills remain hidden gems where nature and tranquility meet. Whether you’re a photographer, an adventure lover, or simply someone seeking peace, this duo of scenic spots promises an unforgettable experience.

In this detailed guide, you’ll learn everything about Badi Lake and Bahubali Hills, how to reach them, the best time to visit, and tips for planning your perfect day.

Badi Lake Udaipur: A Quiet Escape into Nature

Badi Lake, locally known as Jiyan Sagar, was built in the 17th century by Maharana Raj Singh I to provide relief from drought. Surrounded by the Aravalli hills, the lake spans over 155 square kilometers and is a serene alternative to the busier lakes within the city.

Highlights of Badi Lake

• Peaceful Atmosphere: Unlike tourist-heavy Lake Pichola, Badi Lake offers complete serenity.
• Scenic Walks: A stone pathway runs along the water, ideal for morning walks and nature photography.
• Sunrise and Sunset: The reflection of golden sunlight over the calm water makes it a photographer’s dream.
• Birdwatching: The area is home to migratory birds, making it perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Bahubali Hills: Udaipur’s Panoramic Crown

Just a short climb from Badi Lake lies Bahubali Hills, named after the giant stone structures resembling the famous Jain saint. It’s an easy 15–20-minute hike, rewarding visitors with sweeping views of the lake and surrounding Aravalli range.

Why Bahubali Hills is a Must-Visit

• 360-Degree Views: From the top, you can see the full expanse of Badi Lake and the rural landscapes beyond.
• Perfect for Sunrise or Sunset: Both times create stunning light conditions for photos.
• Adventure and Peace: The climb is easy, making it suitable for families, yet adventurous enough to feel like a small trek.

How to Reach Badi Lake and Bahubali Hills

Badi Lake is located about 12 km from Udaipur city center. It’s well connected by road, and the drive itself is picturesque.

• By Taxi or Cab: Booking a Taxi in Udaipur is the most convenient way to reach Badi Lake and Bahubali Hills. Local drivers know the best routes and can help you plan a flexible itinerary.
• By Self-Drive: If you enjoy driving, rent a car or two-wheeler. The roads are well-maintained.
• By Public Transport: Limited public transport is available, but not recommended if you want comfort and time flexibility.

For travelers arriving by air, Udaipur Airport Pickup Drop Cabs in Udaipur provide a hassle-free way to head directly to Badi Lake or your hotel.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal months to visit Badi Lake and Bahubali Hills are October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant.

• Morning Visits (6–9 AM): Experience sunrise and enjoy calm surroundings.
• Evening Visits (4–7 PM): Witness a mesmerizing sunset and soft golden light for photography.

Monsoon season (July–September) transforms the hills into lush greenery, but the climb may be slippery.

Things to Do Around Badi Lake & Bahubali Hills

Make the most of your trip with these experiences:

1. Photography and Videography

Whether you’re a professional photographer or a casual traveler, the reflection of hills on the clear lake water and the aerial views from Bahubali Hills provide endless photo opportunities.

2. Short Treks and Nature Walks

The 20-minute climb to Bahubali Hills is perfect for beginners and families. You can also take peaceful strolls along the lake’s edge.

3. Picnics by the Lake

Carry snacks or a packed meal and enjoy a lakeside picnic. The calm surroundings and cool breeze make for a relaxing day.

4. Birdwatching

Bring binoculars to spot migratory birds. Early mornings are the best time for bird activity.

Local Food and Cafes Nearby

While Badi Lake is mostly untouched by commercial activity, small tea stalls and local food vendors may appear near the parking area. For a complete meal:

• Head back towards Fateh Sagar Lake for rooftop cafés with lake views.
• Try authentic Rajasthani thali at local restaurants in Udaipur city.

Tips for a Perfect Visit

• Start Early: Early mornings are peaceful and cooler, perfect for trekking and photography.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The climb to Bahubali Hills is easy but rocky in parts.
• Carry Water: Limited shops are available near the hills.
• Respect Nature: Keep the lake and hill area clean. Avoid littering.

Suggested Itinerary for a Half-Day Trip

• 6:00 AM: Start from Udaipur city.
• 6:30 AM: Reach Badi Lake; enjoy sunrise photography.
• 7:00 AM: Begin the trek to Bahubali Hills.
• 7:30 AM: Spend time soaking in the panoramic views.
• 9:00 AM: Head back to Udaipur for breakfast at a lake-view café.

This plan leaves the rest of your day free to explore other Udaipur attractions like Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace or the old city markets.

Why Badi Lake & Bahubali Hills Should Be on Your Udaipur List

If you’ve already explored City Palace, Jag Mandir, and the bustling markets, Badi Lake and Bahubali Hills offer a refreshing change. Here, the rhythm of nature replaces the city’s energy. You’ll hear birds instead of traffic and see vast waters instead of crowded streets.

It’s also a place where locals go to recharge, making it an authentic slice of Udaipur’s natural beauty.

Final Thoughts

Badi Lake Udaipur & Bahubali Hills combine history, serenity, and adventure. Whether you’re seeking a sunrise trek, an intimate picnic spot, or simply a quiet corner to reflect, these locations provide a memorable experience.

Plan your trip with a reliable Taxi in Udaipur for smooth travel, and if you’re arriving by air, pre-book Udaipur Airport Pickup Drop Cabs in Udaipur to save time and enjoy a stress-free start to your journey. From peaceful lake views to breathtaking hilltop panoramas, these two destinations showcase Udaipur’s natural elegance at its best.