Narlai is a village in Rajasthan’s Pali district, located between Udaipur (125 km) and Jodhpur (135 km). It is commonly visited as a stop on the Udaipur, Ranakpur, Jodhpur route.
The main reasons to visit Narlai are:
- Rawla Narlai heritage hotel with stepwell dinner
- Elephant Hill for sunrise views
- Adinath Jain Temple and local temples
- Leopard safari in nearby hills
Most travelers spend 1 day or stay overnight for the heritage experience. The village is small and can be explored on foot. The best time to visit is from October to March, due to moderate temperatures.
Narlai Location and Distance
Narlai is located in Rajasthan’s Pali district, positioned between Udaipur and Jodhpur.
Distance to Narlai:
- Udaipur: 125 km (2.5 to 3 hours by road)
- Jodhpur: 135 km (around 3 hours)
- Ranakpur: 40 km
- Kumbhalgarh: 50 km
The village is commonly visited as part of the Udaipur–Ranakpur–Jodhpur route.
How to Reach Narlai
1. By Road (Best Option)
- From Udaipur: 125 km via NH27 and Ranakpur route
- From Jodhpur: 135 km via NH62
- Travel time: 2.5 to 3 hours
2. By Train
- Nearest station: Falna (approx. 35 km)
- Taxi required from station
3. By Air
- Nearest airport: Udaipur
A self-drive or taxi is the most practical way to reach Narlai.
Top Things to Do in Narlai
Now, let’s jump into things to see in Narlai and check out the attractions in Narlai, Rajasthan. You can also explore activities in Rajasthan.
Rawla Narlai – Heritage Palace Hotel Stay Experience
One of the most well-known locations in Rawla Narlai. In the old days, it was a king’s and queen’s palace. Today, it’s a hotel where you can live.
If you live here, you can have a special dinner beside an old stepwell (a large water well with stairs). Moreover, the location is candlelit and you’ll be able to have the best Rajasthani food.
Elephant Hill – A Fun Climb with Scenic Views in Narlai
There is a large rocky hill in the center of the village. It is known as Elephant Hill because it resembles an elephant lying down! You can also go for trekking in Narlai and climb the hill.
Also, it’s not too difficult and even children can climb it. From the top, you can view the village, farms, and distant hills. It looks most lovely during sunrise or sunset. Moreover, there are also little temples along the path. Locals in the village think that the hill is sacred and divine.
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Old Temples in Narlai – Peaceful Spiritual Sites
Narlai has more than 100 temples! Some of them are really old and filled with beautiful designs. Explore the temples in Narlai. The most popular temple one is the Shri Adinath Jain Temple. It’s white and constructed from marble.
There are also lots of small Shiva temples, Devi temples, and family deities that people worship to. You can also stroll along and discover a new temple in nearly every bylane!
1-Day Itinerary: Udaipur to Narlai to Jodhpur
- Start from Udaipur in the morning
- Visit Ranakpur Jain Temple (optional stop)
- Reach Narlai by afternoon
- Check in at Rawla Narlai or explore village
- Evening: Leopard safari or stepwell dinner
- Next morning: Elephant Hill trek
- Continue to Jodhpur
This route is ideal for travelers covering Udaipur and Jodhpur in one trip.
Leopard Safari in Narlai
Narlai and the surrounding Pali district hills hold one of Rajasthan’s few stable leopard populations outside designated national parks. Sightings are reported year-round, but the highest probability window is November to February, when vegetation thins after monsoon and leopards move more actively at dawn and dusk.
- Best time: Early morning or evening
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Cost: ₹1,500–2,500 per jeep
- Timings: early morning (5:30–6:00 AM) and late evening (5:00–6:30 PM).
- Booking: Through Rawla Narlai or local operators
- Sightings: Not guaranteed, but chances increase with experienced guides
This is one of the few places in Rajasthan offering offbeat wildlife experiences near heritage stays.
Jeep Drive to Surrounding Villages Near Narlai
You may even go by jeep to visit nearby villages around Narlai. Also, check out the ancient stepwells and temples. You’ll also ride through serene walks and fields, observing rural life.
Best Places to Stay in Narlai
Following are where you might like to stay when visiting Narlai Village.
| Hotel Name | Type of Stay | Price (INR) | What’s Special |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rawla Narlai | Fancy Palace Hotel | ₹12,000–18,000 | Stepwell dinner, royal rooms |
| Shivam Guest House | Simple Homestay | ₹1,000–1,500 | Clean rooms, home-made food |
| Kesar Bagh Heritage | Style Hotel | ₹5,000–7,000 | Peaceful, good old feel |
| Jawanthra Homestay | Family Homestay | ₹1,500–2,000 | Good view, friendly family |
It is better to make an early booking for your room, particularly from October to March. It is a time when only a few people can stay. Also, check out the things to know about Rajasthan.
What to Eat in Narlai: Local Rajasthani Cuisine to Try
Narlai has most of its food fresh and local. Whether you have your food in Narlai in a big hotel or a small kitchen, you will relish yummy Rajasthani food such as.
| Dal Baati Churma | A round bread, lentils, and sweet crumbs |
| Gatte ki Sabzi | A soft flour balls in spicy curry |
| Ker Sangri | A a sour dish prepared using desert beans |
| Bajre ki Roti | Millet bread served with garlic chutney |
| Malpua | A yummy dessert |
| Buttermilk | Refreshing drink prepared from curd |
If you happen to stay at Rawla Narlai, the stepwell dinner is a must-have! You can also check out top local dishes to try in each city.
Best Time to Visit Narlai: Weather and Travel Seasons
The best time to visit Narlai, Rajasthan is October to March when the climate is pleasant and not too warm.
April to June is extremely warm, hence not the right time to go. In monsoon (July to September), it gets greenish and peaceful, which is also a good time if you prefer quiet trips.
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FAQs
Narlai is in the Pali district of Rajasthan, which is close to Ranakpur and Kumbhalgarh, between Udaipur (125 km) and Jodhpur (135 km).
Narlai is known for the heritage hotel Rawla Narlai, the unique candlelit stepwell dinner, Elephant Hill trekking, ancient temples, and leopard safaris.
The best way is by car or taxi from Udaipur or Jodhpur, enjoying a scenic countryside drive that takes about 3 hours.
Yes! Narlai offers peace, heritage charm, rural culture, and offbeat experiences away from the tourist crowds.
October to March is ideal for pleasant weather, while monsoon (July–September) is lush and peaceful.
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