The Birthplace of Mewar’s Legend, Maharana Pratap: Know What to Do, Nearby Places and How to Plan it!
Located almost 80 Km from the enchanting city of Udaipur, The Kumbhalgarh Fort, is cradled in the Aravali Range. Standing as a testament to the valour and ingenuity of its builders, the famous Kumbhalgarh Fort has a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding landscape and the village is full of traditional values flowing through the incredible roads amidst the enchanting hills. It is the most significant one in the history of Rajasthan teaching us the basic and sensitive values of living.
Places to visit in Kumbhalgarh Village
Starting from the most interesting part of every trip – the Places to Visit! This historical village seems like a one-day affair when you think of it but this one has a vibe that will lock you up for at least a couple of days. The birthplace of Maharana Pratap Singh, the legend of bravery. Not only in the battles but also in standing against unacceptable social norms, his bravery to stand for the right and sacrifice himself for his people has always been an inspiration.
This village is not only famous because of Maharana Pratap’s birth, but it has been highly renowned since the reign of Rana Kumbha, high in the chain of Predecessors of Pratap. The whole legacy of the family had the power and their imprints are still present in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. Let’s just commence the ride through the top places to visit in the Kumbhalgarh Village.
Hidden Gem: The Parshuram Mahadev Temple
Start your journey in the morning, around 7-ish from the most enchanting place you can witness – The Parshuram Mahadev Temple. From the entry door, parking is available at almost 3 km inside and there the hike starts at around 1.5 km with a blend of ramp and 500 stairs. The view throughout the way gets better and better projecting the ‘Heaven of Earth’ vibes all around. After covering the hike there are stairs again in the temple which is totally worth it once you get inside. The serenity and the peace in there is unmatchable. Very few tourists would be found there but it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and Lord Ganesha before you take your journey further.
The amazing fact is that there are 9 Kunds in that place which never run dry.
Expert advice – Wear comfortable clothes as it’s at least a 2-3 hour hike. Carry a water bottle, you will only find water outside or after the hike is complete. Try carrying a hiking stick too. Do not take too much of weight with you.
The Kumbhalgarh Fort
The main attraction in the whole village, full of tourists is the Kumbhalgarh Fort. the most enchanting fort with the second-longest wall in the world stretching up to 38 km, is home to many natives. Declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is the place where the Maharana Pratap was born and also the place where the royal family took shelter during the attack. It has various pols such as Aaret Pol (The first entry gate of the Fort), Halla Pol (Badshahi Bavdi), Hanuman Pol (double-storeyed gate with octagonal bastions), Ram Pol (the main entrance of the fort), Vijay Pol (another entrance towards the east), and the Five more pols.
Built in the 15th century, this fort still stands as a masterpiece reflecting the rich Mewari culture. As the locals say, this fort has a total of 360 temples there. One can also witness the classic light and sound show in the evening.
The Famous Temples within the Fort
Visiting all 360 temples might not be everyone’s cup of tea. And, honestly, it is not quite possible to do it in one visit. The walk to these temples feels like a never-ending one as you exit one temple and get into another’s entrance. So, here are a few must-visit ones to check out:
Lakshmi Narayan Temple
The first temple on the left as you embark on your journey is the Lakshmi Narayan Temple with beautiful architecture and sacred idols in there. It is built on a raised platform with plastered stones, decorated ceilings, walls, and stone pillars to worship the divine couple, Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.
Ganesha Temple
Just near the entrance of the Lakshmi Narayan temple, there is a Ganesha temple. The construction of this temple and the consecration of the image of Lord Ganesha is attributed to the Maharana Kumba. Built on a high platform with the maximum number of monkeys around it has been inspired by the Nagara style of the temples.
Vedi Temple – The only Sacrificial Relic
Vedi temple is the popular Jain temple in the Kumbhalgarh Fort premises. With Goddess Vedi being the main deity in this temple, this temple is quite a unique one in an octagonal shape with 36 pillars. The only sacrificial relic present in India is this temple which was built in honor of the sacrifice of the pilgrims. Also, it stays open 24 hours. A must-visit!
Mammadev Temple – Witness the Splendid Art!
The most gorgeous temple in the whole place is the Mammadev Temple. Its enchanting carvings and architectural designs would sweep you off your feet. There were four slabs in this temple which were already moved to Udaipur Museum. It was built in 1460, housing the image of Kuber, the god of wealth and two cenotaphs in the memory of Rana Kumbha and Prithviraj Chauhan.
Neelkanth Mahadev Temple – Marvellous Architecture!
The sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is situated in the Kumbhalgarh Fort in 1458 and is the next stop after the Mammadev temple. There you will find a 6-feet lingam of Lord Shiva in there. The beauty of the temple has been appealed further by inscriptions on pillars, gorgeous sanctum, open mandapa and other attractive stuff.
Temple starts with the Nandi as the first and a very serene place to sit there for a while as walking this much would be tiring.
Mucchal Mahavir temple
The most captivating allure here behind this name is the remarkable portrayal of Lord Mahavir adorned with a distinguished moustache. Moreover, the opulent ambience, majestic elephant statutes, towering idols of deity and everything is a testament to ancient craftsmanship.
Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary
The next day starts with Jungle Safari at the Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary. It houses a variety of species from Chinkara and slot bear to leopards and wolves.
The Lakhela Lake
Just a 15-minute visit to this beautiful lake is a witness to the serenity of the trip. With picturesque views and soothing water sound, this place adds up as a must-visit one.
Catfish Lake
This is another beautiful lake with interesting activities to do. You can have a camel ride here at very nominal charges, feed the catfish snacks sold nearby, talk to the locals and visit a temple of Lakshmi Narayan built on the ghat of the lake. With a serene view, this place is outstanding for fun. Locals there are quite supportive and interested in chatting, you can also spend your time here eating Maggi at the lakeside (the only food option available nearby).
Activities to do in the Kumbhalgarh Village
Camel Ride
Near Catfish Lake, it will cost you around 100-150 rupees per ride. Get an amazing view of the lake and sunglasses are recommended to protect eyes from mosquitoes.
Trek in Nature
Kumbhalgarh to Ranakpur Jain temple trek is another amazing activity to do. Amidst the forest and lush scenery around, walk to the temple. It is almost a 4 hours endeavour and quite a tiring task but the sunset view from there is breathtaking and definitely worth it. Do not carry a lot of stuff but make sure to carry enough to stay in Ranakpur if you don’t feel like travelling back.
Jungle Safari
The Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most amazing Jungle Safari sites to visit, with amazing insights into the forest and enchanting views of Wildlife this is another must-do activity. Book for the early morning one to save your time in the evening and witness the wonderful sunrise there.
Light and Sound Show
In Kumbhalgarh Fort, there are two shows scheduled every day. The first one starts almost at 5:30 pm. Pre-book your tickets to get better seats.
Feed the Cat Fishes
Again at Catfish Lake, combine it with the camel ride.
Boating
Boating in Lakhela Lake is another fun activity. It is seasonal and no specific timings are available. So, try your luck!
Horse Ride
In Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Reserve, try horse riding for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. With incredible views and beautiful horses around, fall in love with nature. That place does not justify Rajasthan in every NCERT textbook as a dry place.
Nearby Places to add to the List
Other than Kumbhalgarh Village, here are other nearby places to visit:
Haldighati: the Remnants of Bravery of Maharana Pratap Singh
Around 48 km from the Kumbhalgarh Fort there is this testament of the bravery of Maharana Partap Singh, the battleground. Its walls are of Haldi, turmeric soil and this place has quite a great significance in the history of Rajasthan and Mewar.
Ranakpur Jain Temple: Seek the Blessings of Lord Adinath
They say it’s one of the most beautiful architectural temples. Though, most of the Jain temples have great architecture this one is definitely a wonder! Beautifully carved out of the structure, it commenced building in 1389. This Śvētāmbara Jain temple is famous for sculptures as well, dedicated to Lord Adinath. A 6-foot-tall idol placed with four heads in four directions.
Udaipur: the most enchanting city in Rajasthan
City of Lakes – Udaipur, is the most enchanting city in Rajasthan. Its mesmerising beauty and serene environment are incomparable. Reach there by noon and start with the City Palace, spend leisure couple of hours exploring and have your lunch there, or one other option for lunch is nearby an old Legacy Cafe, with a beautiful outside sitting option (inside sitting is also available).
Next, hurry up to Karni Mata Temple, and reach there by 4:30 pm to witness the most amazing sunset after the visit to the temple. Look around in the game zone, spa and other facilities available and stay there till post-sunset and witness the lighting over Pichola Lake on your way back in the ropeway. Visit for folk dances performed at various places there. Near City Palace and many private ones too, all of them have their own charm, and one can easily find it by communicating with any rikshawala near City Palace. Call it a night with an amazing rooftop dinner in the city.
The next day, hit the Monsoon Palace and Biological Park. You will need your own vehicle or you can book a shared one to reach the palace. Literally, clouds are visible from the top of that Palace. Further, head to Sahelio ki Badi, a beautifully adorned park. Have a boat ride in Fatehsagar Lake (ask for a speed boat). Have lunch over water with numerous options available.
Tips to Consider while Choosing the Resort or Hotel to Stay in Kumbhalgarh Village
If you are looking for a Kumbhalgarh resort or want to stay at one of the best Kumbhalgarh hotels, then either choose a place situated at a height to have the best view or opt for a place with a Lakhela Lake view at a lesser altitude. Ask for wifi, there is quite a network issue in the hills.
How to Visit and the Best Time
The Best Time to Visit Kumbhalgarh Village is from October to March. Opt-in for winter is a better option as the heat there is quite hard to endure.
Kumbhalgarh to Udaipur distance is 84 kilometers approximately and the nearest airport is the Udaipur airport. You can consider travelling by car or hire a cab for Kumbhalgarh in advance as finding transportation in the village could be a challenge. The only alternative is to ask tour guides who will take you in the open Safari Jeep for the Fort and Safari but they mostly do not include a trip to Parshuram Mahadev Temple.