Kumbalgarh Fort

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Visitor Information

Famous For: Adventure seekers, Wildlife enthusiasts, History Buffs and Architectural Photographers
Entry Fee: Rs 15 for Indian and SAARC country tourists, Rs 200 for others.
Visiting Time: 9:00 am to 6 pm daily
Visit Duration: 3 hours

Kumbalgarh, a rare architectural masterpiece from 15^th century India is a sight to behold. Often compared to the Great Wall of China, these massive forts of 36km walls is an UNESCO world heritage site. Located at the Rajasmand town about 64 kilometres from Udaipur, this exuberant fort was built by the then Maharaja of Mewar Maharana Kumba. Such is the opulence of the wall that it is believed to hold 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 great wall of china and is well known as the Great 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 giant Shivalinga is of primary importance.

Kumbalgarh Fort — *Photo by Ramnath Bhat, CC BY 2.0*

Traveller Tips

The fort is quite a step climb, so wear comfortable clothes and sport shoes.
Carry water bottles to keep yourself hydrated.
Don’t forget to stuff yourself with food packets and water bottles from the food stalls available near the gate.
It requires quite a lot of time to explore the fort so plan accordingly.

Things to Do

The Badal Palace or the abode of clouds is one of the foremost place to visit here. It is the main palace of this fort
Watch the light and sound show which occurs at 6:45 pm every 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 more than 300 Hindu and Jain temples are places of importance.
Take some time out for the Rajasmund lake and Kumbalgarh Sanctuary.

Availability of Guides

This is one of those forts which doesn’t come with a guide. The place is meant for solitary walking and trekking through the wilderness without any restrictions or instructions. So, yes guides are not here.

Best Time to Visit

Winter and Monsoon are the ideal period for visiting the place as the climate is pleasant for exploring the vast area. October – March is the best suitable time for visiting Kumbalgarh Fort.

How to Reach

It is well connected from Udaipur city and takes about 2 hours’ drive from there. One can visit it from Ranakhpur as well which takes a few hours. The magical landscape on the way will enthral you.

Interesting Facts and Trivia

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 19^th century, then it was handed over to government of India and hence open to the public.
It is maintained by Archaeological Society of India and is a recognised UNESCO world heritage site.
The fortress is guarded by seven large gates.
Legend has it that Rana Kumbha conducted a huge puja and human sacrifice at the Hanuman Pol to fortify this place, as instructed by his spiritual guide.
It is an eco-friendly fortress.

Kumbalgarh Fort Udaipur — *Photo by Nagarjun Kandukuru, CC BY 2.0*

Nearby Attractions

Haldighati, the battle ground of the mughal emperor akbar and the Rajput king Maharana Pratap lies in the vicinity. It takes 3hours to drive this 168km distance.
6 feet shivalinga at Neelkanth Mahadeo Temple is located 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 few hours’ drive.

Nearby Restaurants

Gujarat restaurant 3kms from Kumbalgarh is a good location.
King’s Abode and La Pizzeria at Ranakhpur road, 11km from the fortress are interesting destinations.
Maharani Bagh at Sadri, 13 km from Kumbalgarh and the Ranakhpur Hill Resort at Ranakhpur road, 11km from the fortress are ideal places to stay and enjoy a hearty meal.

Overall, Kumbalgarh fort with its enchanting hills, rustic dessert terrain and natural flora and fauna, is an ideal gateway for all people. The great wall of India enthrals people and should be in everyone’s itinerary.