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Sunrise Hike to Bahubali Hills

How to hike Bahubali Hills above Badi Lake for sunrise: getting there, parking, the trail, what to carry and the best months.

Morning at the top of Bahubali Hills above Badi Lake
Morning at the top of Bahubali Hills above Badi Lake. Photo by Sumit Sharma on Unsplash
Quick answer

Bahubali Hills is a free sunrise viewpoint above Badi Lake, about 12–15 km north-west of Udaipur. Drive to the base, then climb about 20 minutes on a path that ends in loose rock. Leave the city about 45 minutes before sunrise, wear shoes with grip, and carry water.

Key facts

  • Free; no ticket
  • About 12–15 km from the Old City, 30–40 minutes by car or scooter
  • Climb: about 20 minutes, loose rock near the top
  • Best months: August to February

Locals started calling it Bahubali Hills because the view, a lake wrapped in green hills, looks like something from the films. The name stuck, and so did the sunrise crowd.

Getting there

The hill sits above Badi Lake, about 12–15 km north-west of the Old City. It takes 30–40 minutes by car or scooter in the early morning. There’s an informal parking area at the base. There’s no public transport at that hour, so arrange a car the night before; see car hire.

The climb

The path takes about 20 minutes. The first part is an easy dirt trail; the last stretch is loose rock, steep in places. Take it slowly and use your hands if needed.

At the top

Badi Lake spreads out below, the Aravalli hills fold away into the distance, and in winter mist sits in the valleys. Find a flat rock and wait for the sun.

When to go

  • Leave the city 45 minutes before sunrise.
  • August to February is best: green hills after the monsoon, mist in winter.
  • Summer mornings are fine but hazy; avoid the climb after rain, when the rock is slippery.

What to carry

  • Shoes with grip.
  • Water and a light breakfast; there are no stalls at the top.
  • A jacket in winter.
  • A torch if you’re climbing before first light.

Make a morning of it

Come down, drive along Badi Lake, then visit Animal Aid Unlimited in Badi village (check visiting hours first; see our guide). Back in the city by 10 am.

More early-morning ideas in hidden places in Udaipur and photography spots.

A lake surrounded by hills in soft light
A lake surrounded by hills in soft light. Photo by Kashish Lamba on Unsplash

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Bahubali Hills trek?

About 20 minutes up from the parking area, a little longer if you stop for photos. It's short but steep near the top.

Why is it called Bahubali Hills?

The name caught on locally because the view resembles scenes from the Baahubali films. It's a hill above Badi Lake, not a film location.

Is Bahubali Hills safe?

It's a popular local walk, but the top is loose rock with steep drops. Go with someone, wear proper shoes and stay back from the edges.

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