1 of 2
The Kumbhalgarh Fort travel guide given here explains all aspects of exploring the royal and rich heritage of Rajputana in Mewar. The Kumbhalgarh Fort, which narrates the glorious history of Rajputs, royal families, and brave warriors, is the pride of Rajasthan.
The regions of Ajmer, Bhilwara, Chittorgarh, Rajsamand, and Udaipur are collectively known as Mewar. This entire area is surrounded by the Aravalli mountain range, which is now ancient. Geologists have identified the Aravalli range as one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world, estimated to be around 1.8 billion years old. Nestled in the lap of the Aravallis, this grand Kumbhalgarh Fort was built as a military fort.
A Fortified Haven
According to the available history of Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rana Kumbha, the king of Mewa...
Built by Experts and for Centuries
According to history, the construction of this military fort was overseen by the visionary architect Mandan. The primary purpose of building this fort was to protect the royal family, the army, and the populace during external attacks. Given its military and defensive nature, the fort's location in the Aravalli hills was such that it remained hidden from view until one was very close.
Around 15,000 labourers, artisans, and architects contributed to the fort's construction. The Rajput architecture Kumbhalgarh makes the fort appear as an integral part of the Aravalli range. This ...
How to reach Kumbhalgarh Fort: A Smart Kumbhalgarh Travel Guide
By Air: Direct or connecting flights are available to Udaipur Domestic Airport from various metropolitan cities in India. Once you reach Udaipur, you can hire a taxi cab for the entire circuit, including Kumbhalgarh, Shrinath Ji, and Udaipur.
By Train: Udaipur and Falna are the two nearest train stations where you can catch direct trains from Mumbai, Delhi, or other cities. The further journey you have to complete by either hiring a private taxi cab or using local transport.
By Bus: Direct buses are available from Udaipur and Falna to Kumbhalgarh. You can also drive your vehicle to Kumbhalgarh via National Highway 8. Take a right turn from Gomti Chauraha and travel via Charbhuja, Richhed, and Kelwara.
Best Time to Visit Kumbhalgarh: Experts at Places to Visit India recommend to winter as the best season to explore Kumbhalgarh and other parts of Rajasthan.
Note: You may find local travel tedious and time-consuming; better hire a taxi cab or rent a vehicle for an improved touring experience.
Kumbhalgarh Fort: This colossal 600-year-old fort stands proudly in the Aravalli hills even today. Maharana Kumbha was not only a brilliant ruler but also a great lover of art and music. Kumbhalgarh Fort is a living testament to his sharp intellect, valor, and love for the arts.
It was here that Maharana Pratap, one of the most powerful and beloved kings in Rajput history, was born. The fort's formidable location and construction make it an impregnable fortress. Anyone interested in Indian history must visit Kumbhalgarh Fort.
Badal Mahal: Located within the Kumbhalgarh Fort complex, Badal Mahal is a two-story palace where clouds often linger during the monsoon season. This palace offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Aravalli range and is known for its beautiful frescoes and architectural style. A complete tour of the fort can take around one and a half to two hours. Badal Mahal is a part of the fort where you can spend a long time absorbing the beauty of the Aravallis.
Muchhal Mahavir Temple: This incredibly attractive temple, dedicated to Lord Mahavira, is located just outside the fort. Built in the 10th century, this ancient Digambar Jain temple is famous for its idol of Lord Mahavira, believed to have a moustache-like white hair.
This unique feature gives the temple its name, Muchhal Mahavir. The temple, built in the Nagara style, houses numerous statues and artworks made of white marble. The carvings on the dome, roof, and pillars are truly incredible.
Parshuram Temple: Located about 1-1.5 kilometres down a valley from Kumbhalgarh Fort, Parshuram Temple can be reached by descending around 500 steps. Alternatively, a rough road allows vehicle access. This unique cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is said to be where the warrior sage Parshuram, the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, meditated for years.
Although the exact date of construction is unknown, the cave structure indicates that it is possibly several centuries old.
Ranakpur Jain Temple: Constructed betwee n 1439 and 1458 CE by a local Jain merchant, Dhanna Shah, the Ranakpur Jain Temple is a symbol of Jain architecture. Entirely made of white marble, the temple showcases intricate carvings and exquisite craftsmanship.
The incredible feature of the temple is its 1,444 uniquely designed pillars. The main temple is dedicated to the first Tirthankara, Lord Adinath. It is located just 35 kilometres from Kumbhalgarh and can be reached by hired taxi or personal vehicle.
Maharana Pratap Museum: Located 50 kilometres from Kumbhalgarh towards Udaipur, near the historic battlefield of Haldighati, this museum is dedicated to the great Rajput warrior king, Maharana Pratap.
The museum creatively showcases Maharana Pratap's struggle against the Mughal Emperor Akbar and other aspects of his life through short films and audio tours, making it a particularly interesting experience for children and families.
Shrinath Ji: Located in Nathdwara, this highly revered Hindu temple is dedicated to Shrinath Ji, a form of Lord Krishna. In the mid-17th century, to protect the idol from the Mughals, it was transferred from Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh to Nathdwara.
The followers of Hinduism and the Vaishnav community have deep faith in ShrinathJi, and even today, locals revere him as a king. Nathdwara is just 50 kilometres from Kumbhalgarh, and transport to Udaipur and Jaipur is easily available from here.
Eklingji: Approximately 22 kilometres from Nathdwara towards Udaipur, this ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is a splendid example of architecture. Built in the Nagara style, the temple was constructed in the 8th century by the local ruler Bappa Rawal.
The Eklingji Temple is known as the private temple of the Mewar royal family. Even today, Lord Eklingji, the primary deity, is seen as the ruling deity of the Mewar. The temple complex includes not only the main temple dedicated to Lord Shiva but also over 100 smaller temples dedicated to various deities.
Udaipur: If you're planning a trip to Kumbhalgarh, consider dedicating a day to the City of Lakes. The City Palace in Udaipur is the most magnificent among Rajasthan's city palaces. The city itself is incredibly beautiful, and its local dishes, such as kadhi-kachori and dal-pakwan, are delicious. Must-visit spots in Udaipur include Lake Pichola, Monsoon Palace (Sajjangarh), Jagdish Temple, Jag Mandir, and Shilpgram.
Explore Historical Gem Nestled Amidst a Wildlife Sanctuary
When you reach the exterior of Kumbhalgarh Fort, you will be astonished by its grandeur. The fort's walls are so wide and expansive that horses can comfortably gallop along them. Constructed entirely from the stones of the Aravalli hills, this fort remains robust and lively even after centuries. The legends and stories of Rajput kings associated with this fort can leave you in awe.
Witness Grand Kumbhalgarh Light and Sound Show: Designed by the tourism department of Rajasthan, the sound and light show at forts is an initiative to rejuvenate the glorious history of Rajputana. You can have sense of wars faught in the past as it's a presentation of the history through light and sound show.
Dive Deep into the Ocean of Rajputana History
Rajputana has left behind a rich legacy of art, architecture, and cultural traditions. The magnificent forts, palaces, and temples scattered across Rajasthan stand as a testament to the Rajput era's grandeur and architectural prowess. The region's history continues to shape the cultural identity of modern Rajasthan, a popular tourist destination known for its vibrant culture, colourful festivals, and historical sites.
Experience the Wilderness on a Jungle Safari
Spanning an area of 610.528 square kilometres, Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary provides an ideal habitat for various flora and fauna. The sanctuary is home to leopards, sloth bears, hyenas, jackals, wild cats, sambars, nilgais, chinkaras, and numerous bird species. This lesser-explored location offers a thrilling experience. A jeep safari from Kumbhalgarh Fort to Thandi Beri typically takes about 2-3 hours, covering a distance of 15-20 kilometres.
Rest at Royal and Exquisite Resorts
With the rise in tourism over the past decade and a half, numerous splendid hotels and resorts have sprung up around Kumbhalgarh, most of which are built in heritage styles and offer a royal treat. These luxurious resorts, nestled in the heart of the jungle, feel like little worlds unto themselves, providing a tranquil escape where you can unwind for a few days.
Don't Miss the City of Lakes
If you are planning a visit to Kumbhalgarh, consider setting aside some time for the City of Lakes, Udaipur. Known as the cleanest and most beautiful city in Rajasthan, Udaipur is relatively free from traffic and pollution issues. Nestled in the valleys of the Aravalli hills, the city showcases a blend of the cultures of Mewar, Marwar, and Gujarat. Be sure to include City Palace and Sajjangarh in your itinerary.
Tips to consider when planning a trip to Kumbhalgarh:
At Places to Visit India, we've a team of travel experts. Whether it's a Himalayan in the north or coastal in the west, team Places to Visit India can make plan you can't imagine.
The tour planners at Places to Visit India consider your specific requirements and budget and create a customize tour pindari glacier trekking package that you actually look for.
Our itinerary includes everything from starting to end, transportation, stay options, activities suggestions, costs, and more, costs only Rs. 199.
Please fill out and submit the inquiry form, and one of our travel experts will connect you.
Phone Numbers:
+91 9929107926
+91 9636344415
Email Addresses:
info@placestovisitindia.com
support@placestovisitindia.com
Office Address:
3/33, Prabhati marg
Chitrakoot, Jaipur 302021
India
