Located north of Udaipur in the wilderness, Kumbhalgarh is the second most important citadel after Chittorgarh in the Mewar region. Cradled in the Aravali Ranges the fort was built in the 15th century by Rana Kumbha. Because of its inaccessibility and hostile topography the fort had remained un-conquered. It also served the rulers of Mewar as a refuge in times of strife. The fort also served as refuge to the baby king Udai of Mewar. It is also of sentimental significance as it is the birthplace of Mewar's legendary King Maharana Partap.

The fort is self-contained and has within its amalgam almost everything to withstand a long siege. The fort fell only once that too to the combined armies of Mughal and of Amber for scarcity of drinking water. Many magnificent palaces an array of temples built by the Mauryas of which the most picturesque place is the Badal Mahal or the palace of the clouds. The fort also offers a superb birds view of the surroundings. The fort's thick wall stretches some 36 kms and is wide enough to take eight horses abreast. Maharana Fateh Singh renovated the fort in the 19th century. The fort's large compound has very interesting ruins and the walk around it can be very rewarding.

History of Kumbhalgarh:
Kumbhalgarh Encompassed by a 36 Km Long wall, it is a Second most important fort in Rajasthan after Chittorgarh. The Fort was build in 15th Century A.D by Maharaja Kumbha and has Seven Majestic gates and Amazing ramparts, ideal for nature trail. The Last gate- the 'Nimboo Pol' has Fascinating chambers. The Fort is interspersed with many magnificent palaces and an array of ruined temples. According to history, the infant Udai singh who later founded Udaipur was hidden in these chambers by his faithful maid Panna Dai to save him from the murderous intentions of his uncles.

Among the Ancient ruins, notable are Jain Temples of the Mauryan period, A kali temple and the Mamadev Kund Flanked by Royal Chhatris.
 

Transport And Communication

Air : Nearest airport is Udaipur - 90km.
Rail : Nearest railhead is Marwar - 25km and Udaipur - 90km.
Road : Jodhpur- 170km, Abu Road- 200km.

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