Kumbhalgarh fort:
Kumbhalgarh Fort is a Mewar fortress on the westerly range of Aravalli Hills in the Rajsamand District of Rajasthan, India. It is a World Heritage Site included in Hill Forts of Rajasthan.
Here are some key features of Kumbhalgarh Fort:
1. Location:
Kumbhalgarh Fort is located in the Aravalli Range, about 82 kilometers northwest of Udaipur in the state of Rajasthan.
 |
| Kumbhalgarh fort |
2. Construction:
The fort was built in the 15th century by Rana Kumbha, a ruler of Mewar, and it is named after him. The construction of the fort began in 1443 and continued for several years.
3. Great Wall of India:
Kumbhalgarh is renowned for its massive wall, often referred to as the “Great Wall of India.” The wall extends for approximately 36 kilometers and is the second-longest continuous wall after the Great Wall of China.
4. Architecture:
The fort showcases impressive Rajput architecture, with intricately designed palaces, temples, and various structures inside its complex.
5. Badal Mahal:
Badal Mahal, meaning the “Palace of Clouds,” is one of the prominent structures within the fort. It was built by Rana Fateh Singh and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
6. Kumbha Palace:
Kumbha Palace, another significant structure, was the birthplace of Maharana Pratap, the great warrior and king of Mewar.
7. Temples:
There are many temples within the fort complex, including the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, Vedi Temple, and Ganesh Temple, among others.
8. Light and Sound Show:
The fort hosts a light and sound show in the evenings, narrating the history of Mewar and the valor of its rulers.
9. Wildlife Sanctuary:
Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary surrounds the fort and is known for its diverse flora and fauna. Leopards, wolves, sloth bears, and various species of birds inhabit the sanctuary.
10. Maha Sati:
Kumbhalgarh Fort is also known for the Maha Sati, a historical event where the women of the Rajput community committed self-immolation during the siege of the fort.
11. Festivals:
The fort is a venue for the annual Kumbhalgarh Festival, celebrating the cultural heritage of Rajasthan. The festival includes various cultural performances and activities.
12. UNESCO World Heritage Site:
Kumbhalgarh Fort is part of the Hill Forts of Rajasthan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its cultural significance and architectural marvels.
Kumbhalgarh Fort stands as a symbol of the rich history and valor of the Rajput rulers of Mewar. The massive wall and the impressive structures within the fort make it a significant tourist attraction in Rajasthan.