Udaipur >> Excursions >> Kumbhalgarh

Distance from Udaipur: 84Kms

Cradled in a cluster of 13 mountain peaks of the Aravalli range, is the formidable medieval citadel, Kumbhalgarh, located about 84 Kms north west of Udaipur. Rising from a prominent ridge, 3568 feet above sea level, the fort was built by Maharana Kumbha between 1445 and 1458 A.D. and named after him. It provides a panoramic view of the Aravalis and the sandy deserts of Marwar. Maharana Kumbhas reign had witnessed great architectural activities and his satrategy of defence was woven around a string of fortresses. Out of 84 forts of Mewar, 32 were constructed by him.

The massive fort, encompassed by 36 km long wall, surrounded by thirteen mountain peaks and guarded by immense watch towers and seven gates has witnessed many ferocious battles. Stretching over an area of 12 sq kms, the fort has many magnificent palaces and an array of ruined temples of Lord Shiva. The most picturesque of the palaces is the Badal Mahal or palace of the cloud. Highest of all structures, the Badal Mahal offers a superb view of the countryside surrounding the fort, as well as other ruins within the fort.

The ancient ruins of the temples within the fort date back to the Mauryan period, built during the reign of the grandson of the Mauryan Emperor, Ashoka. Most of the ruins in Kumhbalgarh are of the Jain temples of various periods. Fascinating chambers are built on the western side of the last gate- the Nimboo Pol According legend, the infant Udai Singh was smuggled from Chittorgarh and hidden in these chambers by his faithful maid Panna Dhi to save him from the murderous intentions of his uncle who desired the throne. Udai Singh ascended the throune of Mewar with Kumbhalgarh as his residence and later established Udaipur- the beautiful lake city.

Since Rana Kumbha was a patron of music, paintings, arts and architecture, the fort of Kumbhalgarh exhibits an excellent example of art and architecture. The main buildings in the fort are Nilkanth Mahadev, Vedi, Mamadev temple and Kartarghar. Nilkanth Mahadev is the oldest building in the fort.

The Kumbhalgarh sanctuary which is home to a wide variety of flora and fauns, is another nearby attraction. 578 sq. km. sanctuary that support a rich variety of wildlife like the panther, sloth bear, will boar, wild boar, four-horned antelope and scientifically crocodiles. The sanctuary is also noted for flamingoes, cormorants, spoonbills and egrets, which are usually seen in winter.