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Kumbalgarh
The Mewar fortress of Kumbalgarh is a major fortified citadel in Rajasthan, India. Built in the XV century during the reign of Maharana Kumbha, it resisted all efforts by successive Mogul emperors to conquer it. Entrance to the fortress is possible through sever heavily fortified doors and it contains hundreds of temples, palaces and living quarters. It was last used in the XIX century.
Maharana Kumbha was the grand father of the Legendary Rajput King and Warrior Maharana Pratap of Mewar. The fort is built on top of one of the highest peaks of the Aravalli Range. It is about 3400 feet high. The fort wall extends 36 km and encloses the Kumbalgarh Wildlife sancutuary within its reach.
It is possible to view the sand dunes belonging to the Thar desert from the top of the fort. According to popular folklore, Maharana Kumbha used to burn massive lamps that consumed 50KGs of Ghee and 100KGs of cotton to provide light for the farmers who worked during the nights in the valley.
Kumbalgarh is situated 82 km from Udaipur and is easily accessible by road.
There are many luxury hotels situated enroute to the fort. Most notable is Hotel Aodhi, owned and maintained by the HRH Group of hotels.
Places to Visit:
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.
Ranakpur Temples (85 km from Udaipur and 50 km from Kumbhangarh): These beautiful jain temples are a fine example of the temple architecture. Kankroli-Rajsamand are known for their scenic beauty.
On the way to Kumbhalgarh lies a magnificent dam- the Rajsamand Lake. The royal lake, built in 1660
by Rana Raj Singh. From here one can have a spectacular view of the sunset with beautiful ‘ torans’ or arches and chhatris adorning the embankment. The lake has a Rest House of the Irrigation Department on the embankment below. The Rest House has a beautifully laid out garden interspersed with exuqisite sculptures excavated from the ruins nearby.
The town of Kankroli nearby with a marvelous temple and a pretty palace on the hill top offers a scenic experience.
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