Udaipur Beyond the Lakes: Exploring Bahubali & Rayta Hills

For a time longer than itself, Udaipur has been equated with its beautiful lakes. Although Udaipur’s lakes are magnificent, the city has much more to offer, including majestic marble palaces.

Step a little outside the city, though, and you’ll find two easy escapes that show another side of the Aravalli: Bahubali Hills above Badi Lake and the rolling ridge roads of Rayta Hills. Both are simple to reach, gentle on effort, and extremely generous with views.

Table of Contents

• Bahubali Hills
• Rayta Hills
• 1-Day Itinerary for Exploring Bahubali & Rayta Hills
• Wrapping Up

Bahubali Hills

Badi (also called Jiyan Sagar) sits on Udaipur’s outskirts and was built in the 17th century to relieve famine—a calm expanse ringed by low, rugged hills. Those same hillocks now draw walkers and photographers, with Bahubali Hills the star viewpoint over the water.

It gets its name from its towering presence that offers uninterrupted 360-degree views of Udaipur’s landscapes. The hike is short (about 10–20 minutes), on a dusty but manageable path; most people with average fitness can do it with a steady pace and sturdy shoes.

Sunrise and sunset are the money shots here. Early light lays a soft glow over the water and ridge lines; late light warms the rock and doubles the drama in the lake’s reflection.

If you plan to boat on Badi Lake itself, that’s a separate ticket sold lakeside. Here are a few more things to do at Bahubali Hills:

• Photography: Capture breathtaking views of Badi Lake, the surrounding hills, and the golden hues of sunset.
• Short Hikes: Trekking up the rocky patches of the hill is a light adventure that rewards you with unmatched views.
• Relaxation: Many visitors bring picnic baskets or simply sit atop the rocks, soaking in the silence.
• Meditation & Yoga: The calm environment makes it a peaceful retreat for meditation or yoga practice.

For visitors who want easy access and flexibility, opting for car rentals in Udaipur makes the trip much smoother, especially if you wish to explore neighbouring attractions like the Monsoon Palace.

Rayta Hills

About 15 kilometres from Udaipur city, the Rayta Hills are less commercial and more rooted in nature and village life. Rayta isn’t a single “viewpoint” so much as a scenic belt of hills and valleys.

Think ribboning roads, hairpin curves, and long green slopes—especially vivid during the monsoon—rather than a marked summit. It’s ideal for an aimless drive, an easy scooter run, or roadside photo stops.

Once you reach the top, you’re greeted with expansive views of the Aravallis stretching endlessly. What sets Rayta apart is its connection with the indigenous lifestyle of nearby villages, which you can explore by travelling in a cab in Udaipur.

Many travellers find it rewarding to combine a visit with interactions in the local hamlets, where traditional crafts and simple rural life thrive. Here are a few more things to experience at Rayta Hills:

• Village Walks: Explore the rustic side of Rajasthan with guided walks through nearby villages.
• Cycling & Off-Roading: Adventure enthusiasts often take to mountain bikes or off-road vehicles here.
• Birdwatching: With its natural setting, Rayta is home to migratory birds and local species.
• Star Gazing: With minimal city lights, the night sky here is a wonder for astronomy lovers.

To get there without hassle, booking a cab in Udaipur is often the most convenient choice.

1-Day Itinerary for Exploring Bahubali & Rayta Hills

A day trip covering both Bahubali and Rayta Hills is very doable if you plan well. The best way to begin is by starting early in the morning and heading straight to the Bahubali Hills to catch the sunrise.

The panoramic view from the top is breathtaking and worth the early wake-up call. Carrying some light snacks or breakfast is a good idea, as it allows you to enjoy a relaxed start to the day while soaking in the serene surroundings.

By midday, you can make your way towards Rayta Hills. The journey itself is scenic, with winding roads, valleys, and glimpses of rural Rajasthan along the way.

In the afternoon, once you’ve reached Rayta, you can engage in simple yet enriching activities such as village walks or cycling through the peaceful trails. These experiences give you a closer look at the local culture while also offering a light adventure for the day.

As the day winds down, you can return to Udaipur in the evening. Opting for car rentals in Udaipur gives you the flexibility to plan your day exactly as you wish, making it easy to customise your itinerary at your own pace.

Wrapping Up

While Udaipur’s lakes and palaces will always remain its defining charm, places like Bahubali Hills and Rayta Hills add a new dimension to the city’s appeal. They invite you to slow down, explore hidden gems, and connect with nature in a way the bustling tourist spots rarely allow.

For a seamless journey through Udaipur and beyond, you can rely on Savaari Car Rentals’ trusted chauffeur-driven services that make every trip memorable and comfortable.