Udaipur: The Epicentre of India’s Destination Wedding Boom

The Rajasthani city is redefining destination weddings and luxury travel, blending regal heritage with modern hospitality to attract global travellers.

Udaipur, often hailed as the "most romantic spot on the continent of India," is riding a hospitality wave fuelled by destination weddings, leisure tourism, and MICE events. Policies such as the Rajasthan Tourism Policy 2020 and the Rural Tourism Scheme have proven to be transformative, positioning Rajasthan as a leader in tourism innovation. By recognising tourism as an industry, the state has unlocked numerous benefits, including tax incentives, infrastructure upgrades, and sustainable practices, ensuring balanced and inclusive growth.

To understand Udaipur’s remarkable transformation, we spoke with three leading hoteliers: Parvinder Bual (Cluster General Manager – Operations (IHCL) & General Manager Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur), Sandipan Bose (General Manager, Mementos by ITC, Udaipur), and Kamal Singh (General Manager, Aurika, Udapiur).

Here’s a snapshot of how this cultural capital is blending its regal heritage with modern luxury, attracting global tourists and cementing its reputation as a premier destination for lavish weddings and unforgettable travel experiences. Dive into the full story on page 140 of our latest issue: https://bit.ly/3ZcIImV.

A Growing Demand That Outpaces Supply

Udaipur has experienced a surge in tourism, recording unprecedented visitor numbers last year, thanks to its unparalleled appeal as a wedding and leisure destination. However, the city’s older luxury properties, such as Taj Lake Palace, The Leela, and Oberoi Udaivilas, have a combined capacity of barely 250 keys, leading to a rush of new entrants to meet demand.

Recent additions like Mementos by ITC, Aurika, and Raffles are supplementing Udaipur’s upscale offerings, while mid-market and economy properties continue to expand. For instance, the IHCL group, besides operating the iconic Taj Lake Palace, has bolstered its portfolio with Taj Fateh Prakash Palace, Taj Aravali Resort & Spa, Raajsa Kumbhalgarh—IHCL SeleQtions, amã Stays & Trails, and Ginger Udaipur. Similarly, besides Aurika Udaipur (from its luxury segment), Lemon Tree Hotels also has two properties—Keys Select and Keys Lite, with a new Lemon Tree Hotel set to launch in FY’27 with 54 rooms and suites. Other key players include Rockwood Hotels, which owns the 245-key Radisson Blu and is now adding a Fairmont, scheduled to open later this year. Today, Udaipur boasts a total inventory of 1,634 rooms:

• 500 luxury rooms
• 1,000 mid-market rooms
• 134 economy rooms

This diverse mix caters to a wide range of travellers, further solidifying Udaipur’s place as a global tourism hotspot.

Cultural Relevance Meets Luxury

One of the defining features of Udaipur’s hospitality scene is the seamless interplay of heritage and modernity. The city’s evolving hospitality landscape reflects a growing demand for luxury experiences, sustainability, and cultural immersion.

Luxury resorts, boutique properties, and heritage hotels have prioritised sustainable tourism, integrating local culture and traditions into their offerings. Heritage hotels, in particular, have played a vital role in preserving Udaipur’s rich history and architectural charm. Meanwhile, the rise of boutique hotels and homestays provides more intimate and authentic experiences, often featuring traditional design elements and decor.

Adding to its appeal, Udaipur’s culinary scene has flourished, with restaurants offering a diverse range of traditional Rajasthani dishes and international cuisines. These developments have greatly enhanced the city’s reputation, drawing in both domestic and international travellers.

Opportunities for Growth

Udaipur’s rich cultural tapestry and history provide ample opportunities to enhance guest experiences through cultural events, local tours, and workshops, creating a unique selling point. The city is also poised to capitalise on the rising trend of eco-tourism and adventure sports, appealing to travellers seeking active and immersive experiences. Additionally, its cultural heritage can inspire themed experiences, encouraging longer stays and repeat visits. With the growing focus on wellness tourism, Udaipur’s hotels can attract health-conscious travellers by offering spa services, yoga sessions, and wellness retreats, positioning the city as the perfect getaway for rejuvenation.

Udaipur is not just a city of lakes and palaces; it is a dynamic confluence of heritage and innovation, poised to redefine India’s tourism landscape. Whether it’s a grand destination wedding or an immersive cultural escape, this romantic city continues to evolve, offering unforgettable experiences to all who visit.

QUOTES BY SPOKESPEOPLE

“Udaipur has firmly established itself as a top wedding destination in India, boosting the city’s hospitality sector.” - Kamal Singh

“Udaipur stands at a pivotal moment of opportunity for growth in its hospitality sector.” - Parvinder Bual

“Udaipur’s rich heritage and culture, showcased through its stunning architecture, beautiful lakes and romantic ambience, offer a unique blend of historical charm and modern luxury.” - Sandipan Bose