Kumbalgarh, a rare architectural masterpiece from 15th century India may be a sight to behold. Often compared to the good Wall of China, these massive forts of 36km walls is an UNESCO world heritage site. Located at the Rajasmand town about 64 kilometers from Udaipur, this exuberant fort was built by the then Maharaja of Mewar Maharana Kumba. Such is that the opulence of the wall that it’s believed to carry place for 8 horses running side by side. This masterpiece has 25 feet width wall surrounding the fortress running for kilometres. It is the Indian version of the good Wall of China and is documented because the Chinese Wall of India. This fortress rightfully depicts the Rajput architectural skills and is surrounded by the Kumbalgarh sanctuary and Rajasmand Lake. Situated at a height of 1900 metres the fortress provides a breath-taking view of the Aravalli. The fort is adorned by several Hindu and Jain Temples of which the enormous Shivalinga is of primary importance.
It houses the largest Shivlinga in the world. It is the birth place of Maharana Pratap. The fortress has never been conquered. It was occupied till the 19th century, then it had been handed over to government of India and hence hospitable the general public. It is maintained by Archaeological Society of India and may be a recognised UNESCO world heritage site. The fortress is guarded by seven large gates. Legend has it that Rana Kumbha conducted an enormous puja and human sacrifice at the Hanuman Pol to fortify this place, as instructed by his spiritual guide. It is an eco-friendly fortress.
Winter and Monsoon are the perfect period for visiting the place because the climate is pleasant for exploring the vast area. October – March is that the best suitable time for visiting Kumbalgarh Fort.
It is well connected from Udaipur city and takes about 2 hours’ drive from there. One can visit it from Ranakhpur also which takes a couple of hours. The magical landscape on the way will enthrall you.
The Badal Palace or the abode of clouds is one among the foremost place to go to here. It is the most palace of this fort Watch the sunshine and sound show which occurs at 6:45 pm a day for just Rs 100. Witness the ethereal beauty of the sun setting across the mountains. Don’t miss the birth place of Maharana Pratap. The giant Shivalinga temple is a must visit. Explore the great wall of India. For the religious minded people, the quite 300 Hindu and Jain temples are places of importance. Take a while out for the Rajasmund Lake and Kumbalgarh Sanctuary.
Haldighati, the battle ground of the mughal emperor akbar and therefore the Rajput king Maharana Pratap lies within the vicinity. It takes 3hours to drive this 168km distance. 6 feet shivalinga at Neelkanth Mahadeo Temple is found near the fort. Mammadev Temple lies hidden below the Kumbalgarh fortress. The Kumbalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary surrounds the fort. The Rajasmund Lake is another place to visit. Ranakhpur Jain temple lies at a distance of 11km from Kumbalgarh and takes a couple of hours’ drive.