Kumbhalgarh
General Information about Kumbhalgarh

History
In Rana Kumbha's time the kingdom of Mewar spread from Ranthambore to Gwalior, including vast tracts of present-day Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. Mewar's rulers became patrons of all that was best in Indian martial and fine arts, architecture, and learning. Of the 84 fortresses defending Mewar, 32 were designed and built by Rana Kumbha. Of these, Kumbhalgarh with its 36-kilometer long wall and soaring towers is the most impressive. Kumbhalgarh stands on the site of an ancient citadel dating back to the second century AD belonging to a Jain descendant of India's Mauryan emperors. It defined the boundaries between Mewar and Marwar and became a refuge for Mewar's rulers in times of strife. Its steel gray ramparts encircle the fertile Shero Mallah Valley, with ancient monuments cenotaphs, ponds and flourishing farms. Kumbhalgarh fell only once in its history, to the combined forces of Emperor Akbar, Raja Man Singh of Amber, and Raja Udai Singh of Amber, and Raja Udai Singh of Marwar.

General Travel Information

Reaching Kumbhalgarh

By Air: Nearest airport is Udaipur (84 km).
By Bus: Kumbalgarh is approchable by road from Udaipur (84 km) and Ranakpur(18 km).
By Train: Rail Nearest railway station is in Ratlam (Madhya Pradesh) (80 kms) connected with all the major cities of the country.
Getting around: Cycle - rickshaw and tongas are available.

Places to see

Haldighati: The scene of the famous battle off 1576 AD fought between Rana Pratap-the heroic son of Udai Singh and the massive forces of the mughal Emperor Akbar. A beautiful Chhatri with white marble cloumns, dedicated to Rana Pratap stands here.


Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary: The 586 sq. km. Sanctuary supporting a rich variety of wildlife like the panther,sloth bear,wild boar, four horned antelope and scientifically bred crocodiles in the lake, are the major attractions.The sanctuary is also noted for flamingoes, cormorants, spoonbills and egrets
usually seen in winter

Muchhal Mahavir temple: The Muchhal Mahavir temple is situated about five km from Ghanerao in the Kumbhalgarh Sanctuary. Its distinctive feature is the statue of Lord Mahavira with a mustache. The two statues of elephants guarding the gateways are splendid examples of temple decoration. In the vicinity are the Garasia tribal villages famous for their colorful costumes.

Hotels

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