Kumbhalgarh

Kumbhalgarh is a fortress located in the Aravalli Range of Rajsamand district in Rajasthan. A Merwar Fortress, Kumbhalgarh is one of the World Heritage Sites and is the second-largest fort in India after Chittorgarh Fort. Covering around 12 square kms, the walls of the fort stretch over an area of about 36 kms and is one of the longest walls in the world, second only to China’s Great Wall!

Built during the reign of Rana Kumbha in the 15th century, Chittorgarh is also one of the largest fort complexes in the world. Located 82km from Udaipur, it makes for a great one day trip.

If you are interested in some adventure, don't miss out on the foot tracking and horse safari organized in the Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary. The Safari starts from the Kumbhalgarh Fort and reaches Ghanerao while cutting across the sanctuary. The best part of this safari is the chance to spot Antelopes, Chinkaras and Nilgais.

Best Time to Visit Kumbhalgarh 

Kumbhalgarh experiences a hot and dry climate during summers hence traveling is quite tiresome during this time. Thus, winter (October to February) is an ideal time to visit, as the weather is comfortable for sightseeing and the chances of spotting wild animals in the wildlife sanctuary are also very high. Since the luscious green vegetation of Kumbhalgarh is a natural wonder in the desert state of Rajasthan, one can even visit the region during the rainy season as the monsoon showers splash its magical charm over the dense vegetation, making the place gleam with greenery.

Places to Visit in Kumbhalgarh

Kumbhalgarh Fort – An Architectural Wonder Of Rajasthan

Encircled by the Aravallis, Kumbhalgarh Fort is one of the most popular places to visit in Kumbhalgarh. Perched at 1900 meters above sea level, it was built by the Rana Kumbha of Mewar dynasty. This gorgeous and mammoth fort is enclosed by a huge wall stretching for 30 kms. Kumbhalgarh Fort is also listed as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. There are numerous temples and palaces located inside the fort and the panoramic view of the hills and forests from the top of the fort leaves everyone awestruck.

Mammadev Temple – A Tourist Place Worth Visiting

Mammadev Temple is located right below the Kumbhalgarh Fort and is known for its beautiful architecture and interiors. Built by Rana Kumbha in 1460, this temple boasts intricate sculptures and is definitely one of the best places to visit in Kumbhalgarh. The temple has two cenotaphs or ‘chhatris’ in memory of famous rulers Rana Kumbh and Prithviraj Chauhan. Moreover, there were four huge blocks in the temple with inscriptions of the history and heritage of the Mewar clan. But a few years ago, the pillars were transported to the Udaipur museum. There is also a huge reservoir locally called ‘kund’.

Badal Mahal – The Splendid Palace Inside The Fort

Badal Mahal is a part of the Kumbhalgarh Fort and attracts a large number of tourists for its astounding architecture and grandeur. This is a 2-storied palace, located at the top of the fort, known for its colourful murals and breathtaking views. Its breathtaking beauty makes it one of the most visited places in Kumbhalgarh. Due to its location at the top, the palace is airy and well ventilated and hence named Badal Mahal or The Palace of Clouds. The palace is divided into two sections: Zanana for the womenfolk and Mardana for the men of the royal clan.

Neelkanth Mahadeo Temple – Popular For Intricate Architecture

A famous Shiva temple, Neelkanth Mahadeo is another beautiful and serene place to visit in Kumbhalgarh, which dates back to 1458. The temple has an open mandapa, a sanctum, pillars with inscriptions, six feet high Shiva Linga made of stone and entrances on all four sides. Located close to Kumbhalgarh Fort, Neelkanth Mahadeo Temple is surely one of the most charming places to see in Kumbhalgarh and your Kumbhalgarh sightseeing tour must include it.

Vedi Temple – A Beautiful Jain Temple

If you are looking for places in Kumbhalgarh that can be explored in a day, do not miss Vedi Temple. Dedicated to Goddess Vedi, this beautiful Jain temple is located close to the Hanuman Gate of the fort and was built by Rana Kumbh. This temple was renovated by Maharana Fateh Singh in later years. Presently, this 3-storied temple is considered the only surviving relic of all the sacrificial sites of India.

Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary – A Rich And Vibrant Biodiversity

Sprawling over 578 sq km, encircling the fort, Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for thrill and adventure. Surrounded by Aravallis, this wildlife sanctuary is home to varied flora and fauna. Initially a hunting ground for royal families, this is one of the major tourist attractions in Kumbhalgarh. The wildlife sanctuary has exotic wildlife species like wolves, leopards, sloth bears, nilgai, deer, chinkara and jungle cat.

How to Reach Kumbhalgarh 

Kumbhalgarh does not have an airport but it is connected by road to Udaipur. It is accessible from most major cities of Rajasthan like Ajmer, Jaipur and Pushkar by road. Here is how to reach Kumbhalgarh.

• By air: Udaipur, about 85 km away, is the nearest airport. Pre-paid taxis charge about Rs 1600 from Udaipur to Kumbhalgarh. Udaipur is well-connected by air to Delhi, Jaipur and Jodhpur. Prepaid taxis are available to take you to nearby towns.
• By train: Nearest railhead is Falna, around 80 km away, which is a junction railway station. It is well-connected to Mumbai, Ajmer, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Jaipur and Jodhpur. Taxis can be hired from the station to Kumbhalgarh.
• By road: Rajasthan State Government Roadways provide ordinary as well as deluxe buses which stop at Kumbhalgarh en route to other cities. The town is connected to Udaipur, Ajmer, Jodhpur and Pushkar by state buses which ply frequently.