Kumbhalgarh is a Mewar Fortress in Rajsamand District of Rajasthan, India. This is the birth place of Maharana Pratap. He was a great king and warrior of Mewar. This is most beautiful scenic destination for the tourists. This place is known for glorious Palaces, royal chhatris and magnificent monuments. During the 2nd century this was the seat of Prince of Samprati. For the bird watchers this is an excellent place. Major attraction of Kumbhalgarh is Kumbhalgarh Fort.
What to see in Kumbhalgarh:
Kumbhalgarh Fort: One interesting this about this fort is there is a small fort inside this fort. It is known as Kartargarh which was built by Maharana Fateh Singh. This is surrounded by 13 mountain ranges. Kumbhalgarh Fort is one of the longest forts in India. It is 36kms long. Major attractions of this fort are soaring watchtowers, gigantic walls, and secret passageways. This was built by Rana Kumbha. It has taken 15 years to complete this fort.
Badal Mahal: It is situated at the top of the Kumbhalgarh Fort. This is two storied structure. It is divided into two parts namely Zanana Mahal and Mardana Mahal. Zanana Mahal comprised stone Jalis that facilitate private viewing of court proceedings and events of the queens.
Vedi Temple: It is located next to Hanuman Gate of the Fort. After the construction of Hanuman Pol, this temple was constructed by King Rana Kumbha. Of all the sacrificial places of India this is only surviving remnant.
Mammadev Temple: It is situated below the fort. This was built by King Rana Kumbha in 1460.
What to see around Kumbhalgarh:
Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary: This surrounds the fort. Area covered by this sanctuary is 586 sq.kms. This is also located in Pali, Rajsamand and Udaipur districts. Major attractions of this sanctuary are Hare, Nilgai, Hyena, Jungle Cat, Panther, four horned antelope, sloth bear, wolf etc… It is the only sanctuary located in Rajasthan. Various birds such as white breasted kingfisher, golden oriole, grey pigeons, grey jungle fowl, flamingos, golden oriole etc can be seen here.
Ranakpur Jain Temples: These temples are located 50kms away from Kumbhalgarh. In 1438, construction of these temples started by Rana Kunbha. One of these Jain temples is Chaumukha Temple. This includes 1444 carved pillars and 29 halls. It is dedicated to Tirthakara Adinath.
Muchchal Mahavir Temple: This is located 34kms away from the fort. From Ghanerao, it is located 5kms away. Unique statue of Lord Mahavir having Moustache can be seen here. At the gateway two elephants welcome the temple.
Neelkanth Mahadeo Temple: It is situate at the base of the plains. Six feet highest Shivalinga can be seen here. It is the only deity of this region.
Getting to Kumbhalgarh: Only way to reach this place is through road. From Pushkar, Jodhpur, Ajmer, Udaipur buses are available to reach this place. Nearest railway head is Phalna which is 80kms away from Kumbhalgarh. This is well connected to Jodhpur, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Ajmer, and Mumbai. Nearest airport is at Udaipur.
Getting around Kumbhalgarh: Best option to visit the surrounding places of Kumbhalgarh is hiring private vehicles.
Best time to visit Kumbhalgarh: Best time to visit this place is between October to March. For spotting the animal’s best time is between December to March.
Where to stay in Kumbhalgarh: Only Budget and midrange hotels are available to stay in Kumbhalgarh. Visitors who want to have luxury hotels best way is to stay in the resorts. Cost of these resorts is starting from Rs.4500 onwards.
Where to eat in Kumbhalgarh: Resort and in-house restaurants in the hotels offer both vegetarian and non vegetarian food. All varieties of food from Rajasthani to Jain are available to eat.