Kumbhalgarh

In the heart of Rajputana, in the Rajsamand district of Rajasthan, lies its most breathtaking fort-Kumbhalgarh. Surrounded by deep ravines and deeper forests, this remote and commanding citadel (which has been stormed but once) is the birthplace of Rana pratap. It was built in the 15th century by Rana Kumbha of Mewar. Sprawling among a cluster of 13 mountain peaks, the only access is through the fort's seven gates and ramparts, each lying within the other. Badal Mahal and the chamber near Nimboo Pool, the last gate, are steeped in historical drama. The unbroken perimeter wall runs to a length of 36km, bested, it is claimed, only by the Great Wall china. There are several Jain temples inside the fort. Kumbhalgarh Fort is 84km from Udaipur. You can stay at luxurious Aodhi Hotel, not far from the citadel.

The fort provided refuge to the rulers of Mewar in the times of conflict, especially Udai, the baby king of Mewar. It is also the birthplace of Maharana Pratap, a legendary King of Mewar. The fort was made in such a way to protect it against the enemy forces. Encircling the fort is a 36 km long wall, with width thick enough to accommodate eight horses abreast. A self-sufficient fort, Kumbhalgarh was built with almost everything within its premises, with a view to endure a long siege. A number of palaces as well as temples inside the fort add to its appeal. Only once in its lifetime, the fort fell to the combined Mughal and Amber armies, that to because of a scarcity of drinking water.

Apart from this magnificent fort, Kumbhalgarh travel and tourism is known for a number of other attractions also. The Kumbhalgarh wildlife sanctuary is the perfect place for the nature lovers. It is home to some of the exotic species of animals as well as birds. Then there is the Muchchal Mahavir temple, dedicated to Lord Mahavira and Haldighati, the venue of a famous historical battle. One thing is for sure, that you will not be disappointed with a visit to this fortress city.

Places to Visit in Kumbhalgarh

Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Spread over an area of 578 sq km, the Kumbhalgarh wildlife sanctuary is home to a wide variety of wildlife. Wolf, leopards, sloth bear, hyena, jackal, jungle cat, nilgai, four horned antelope, chinkara, grey jungle fowl and a number of other animals inhabit this sanctuary. A birds watcher's paradise, the sanctuary serves as a habitat of peacocks, doves, red spur owls, parakeets, golden oriole, gray pigeons, bulbul, white breasted kingfisher, etc.

Kumbhalgarh Fort
Rana Kumbha got the Kumbhalgarh fort constructed in the 15th century. One of the few forts in Rajasthan that have remained unconquered. Kumbhalgarh was also the birthplace of Maharana Pratap, Mewar's legendary king. The attractions of the fort include a number of fascinating palaces and an array of temples inside it. The fort is enclosed by a thick wall, running up to 36 km and offers a splendid view of the surroundings.

Places to Stay in Kumbhalgarh
The RTDC has done a lot to retain the traditional flavour in its hotels in and around Kumbhalgarh. Hotels like RTDC's Khadim, come with AC Deluxe rooms as well as ordinary rooms, which give a comfortable stay in the city. There are also Sarai facilities for the pilgrims. The government sponsored paying guest scheme makes the visitor feel at home.

How to Get there
Air: Udaipur is the nearest airport from Kumbhalgarh, which is serviced by regular flights to and from cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Jaipur.
Rail: The nearest Railhead from Kumbhalgarh is Udaipur. The railway network links Udaipur to Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur and other cities of India.
Road: Kumbhalgarh is well connected to Udaipur, which in turn is linked to other major cities in Rajasthan, Gujarat and other neighboring states.