Location | Kumbhalgarh
Kumbhalgarh Fort: The Great Wall of India
Nestled high in the Aravalli Ranges of Rajasthan, Kumbhalgarh Fort stands as a spectacular testament to the glory, resilience, and architectural genius of the Mewar kingdom. Built in the 15th century by Rana Kumbha, this magnificent fortress is one of India’s most significant and unconquered citadels, second only to Chittorgarh. A visit here is a journey through history, an encounter with breathtaking views, and an unforgettable experience of Rajput pride.
The Longest Wall on Earth After China
The most legendary feature of Kumbhalgarh is its colossal fortification wall, often dubbed “The Great Wall of India.”
- World’s Second Longest Wall: The continuous wall stretches for about 36 kilometers (22 miles), making it the second longest in the world, surpassed only by the Great Wall of China.
- Impregnable Defense: The walls are formidable, with a width in certain places enough to let eight horses ride abreast. This architectural marvel made the fort virtually impregnable, with its defenses being breached only once in its history due to a scarcity of drinking water.
- Strategic Location: Constructed on a hilltop 1,100 meters (3,600 ft) above sea level, the fort’s position in the rugged terrain offered a natural, hostile barrier to invaders and panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Key Attractions Within the Fortress
Within the massive walls of Kumbhalgarh, you will discover a vast complex that housed a self-sufficient kingdom during prolonged sieges
- Badal Mahal (Palace of Clouds): Located at the fort’s highest point, this two-story palace offers stunning, airy architecture and breathtaking, panoramic views of the Aravalli hills and the surrounding countryside.
- Birthplace of Maharana Pratap: The fort holds deep sentimental value as the birthplace of the legendary Mewar king, Maharana Pratap (born 1540), a symbol of Rajput honor and resistance against the Mughals.
- Temples Galore: The fort complex is home to over 360 temples, a unique mix of Hindu and ancient Jain shrines, showcasing the religious tolerance and architectural skills of the era. The most famous is the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Seven Fortified Gates: Accessing the fort requires passing through seven massive, strategically designed gates, or ‘Pols,’ like the Aaret Pol and Hanuman Pol, each adding a layer of defense.
Key Attractions Within the Fortress
| Location | Rajsamand District, Rajasthan (approx 85-90 km from Udaipur) |
| Timings | 0900 hrs to 1800 hrs (daily) |
| Entry Fees | Indian Tourists: Rs 40 | Foreign Tourists: Rs 600 |
| Light & Sound Show | Held daily after sunset (around 6:45 PM) – Check local listings |
| Best Time To Visit | October to March |
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