Things to do in Kumbhalgarh will transport you to a world where history, adventure, and nature come together in perfect harmony. Nestled in the Aravalli Hills, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is famed for its colossal fort, but that’s just the beginning. Kumbhalgarh offers a unique blend of historical exploration, cultural richness, and stunning wildlife sanctuaries. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking tranquillity, Kumbhalgarh has something to captivate every traveller. Here’s a list of the top 10 must-do activities in Kumbhalgarh that will leave a lasting impression on your heart!
Top 10 Things To Do In Kumbhalgarh
Discover a hand-picked list of the best things to do in Kumbhalgarh for an unforgettable trip!
1. Explore Kumbhalgarh Fort
Photo: Shail Sharma / Unsplash
The main attraction here in Kumbhalgarh is the Fort of Kumbhalgarh, which boasts excellent architecture. Constructed by the famous Rana Kumbha of the 15th century, this huge fort lies about a distance of 36 kilometres with a wall around it, ranking second in length throughout the world after the Great Wall of China. Inside this fort are several palaces, temples, and gardens; the Badal Mahal provides striking views of the surrounding Aravalli hills. The light and sound show in the evening depicts the history of the fort, hence it is a must-see place for historical lovers.
Ideal Duration: 3 – 4 hours
Entry Fee: ₹40 (Indians); ₹600 (Foreigners)
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Location: Kumbhalgarh, Rajasthan
2. Witness The Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Deeksha vyas / Wikimedia Commons
The best thing to do in Kumbhalgarh is to create surroundings of the vast expanse of the majestic Kumbhalgarh Fort as Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary. Inside this sanctuary, there lies a haven for several kinds of flora and fauna, including secretive leopards, sloth bears, and hyenas. Here, birdwatchers see many varieties like peacocks, jungle fowl, and golden orioles, among others. It forms the natural beauty of the sanctuary on foot, on horseback, or through jeep safari. Each method makes the wilderness come alive and thus become one of the best options available for nature and wildlife lovers in search of adventure and excitement in this region.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Entry Fee: ₹20 (Indians) and ₹100 (Foreigners)
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
Location: Kumbhalgarh, Rajasthan
3. Visit Badal Mahal
Photo: Sujay25 / Wikimedia Commons
Amongst things to see in Kumbhalgarh, Badal Mahal or “Palace of Clouds” should be there on your list. This lovely structure is situated at the highest point of Kumbhalgarh Fort. The palace, in two parts-the Zanana and Mardana chambers-, reflects in its architecture the excellence that Rajput architecture boasts of. Panoramic vistas of the surrounding hills and the fort complex greet every visitor to this place. The intricately painted walls and beautifully designed chambers in the palace evoke the opulent lifestyle of the rulers of Mewar, creating a peek into their living style. Besides, it is an ideal spot for photography.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fee: Included with Kumbhalgarh Fort
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Location: Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajasthan
4. Explore Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
Photo: Shakti / Wikimedia Commons
Among the things to do in Kumbhalgarh, one of the best is visiting the Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, which comes under the compound of Kumbhalgarh Fort. Besides housing a magnificent 6-foot-high Shiva lingam, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and thus attracts a huge number of devotees from far and wide. Its intricately carved pillars, along with serene surroundings, considerably promise tranquil and spiritual experiences in the architectural design of this temple. One can thus admire in it the stonework in the details and the tranquillity of the atmosphere, and understand quite a bit about Rajasthan’s religious heritage and also its culture.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Location: Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajasthan
5. Visit Vedi Temple
Photo: Deeksha vyas / Wikimedia Commons
For those interested in what to do in Kumbhalgarh, the Vedi Temple is a must-visit. This ancient Jain temple, situated near Kumbhalgarh Fort, was constructed by Rana Kumbha to commemorate the sacrifice rituals performed in the fort. The three-storey temple is renowned for its stunning stone carvings and has been meticulously preserved. As an important religious site for Jain devotees, it offers a unique opportunity to explore Jain culture and ancient architecture. The temple’s historical significance and architectural beauty make it a notable stop for visitors.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Location: Kumbhalgarh, Rajasthan
6. Enjoy The Light And Sound Show
Photo: Chinar / Wikimedia Commons
A highlight of the best things to do in Kumbhalgarh is the Light and Sound Show held at Kumbhalgarh Fort. This evening show vividly brings the fort’s history to life, recounting tales of bravery, wars, and royal legacies. The fort is illuminated with dramatic lighting, and the voice-over enhances the magical atmosphere. The immersive experience offers a captivating journey through time, making it a memorable way to conclude your day at the fort. It’s an engaging spectacle that shouldn’t be missed.
Ideal Duration: 1 hour
Entry Fee: ₹100
Timings: 6:30 PM (Timing may vary with seasons)
Location: Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajasthan
7. Trekking In The Aravalli Hills
Photo: Nataraja~commonswiki / Wikimedia Commons
For avid adventurers, trekking in the Aravalli Hills around Kumbhalgarh is one of the best things to do in Kumbhalgarh. The routes for treks here are easy to moderately good and offer fantastic views of the fort and nature around it. The trails wind their way through thick forests, offering chances to see various wild animals and different species of birds. The tour provides a unique combination of physical exhaustion with the opportunity to contemplate the natural beauty of this region, which is a perfect blend of adventure with nature exploration.
Ideal Duration: 3 – 4 hours
Entry Fee: Free (Guides available for a fee)
Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM
Location: Aravalli Hills, Kumbhalgarh
8. Visit Mammadev Temple
Photo: Chandan Parihar / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The Mammadev Temple, located near Kumbhalgarh Fort, is an important site for those exploring things to see in Kumbhalgarh. Dedicated to the warrior goddess Mamma Devi, the temple is set amidst beautiful natural landscapes. Historically, it housed four large cenotaphs of the Rajput kings who constructed the Kumbhalgarh Fort. The peaceful ambience of the temple provides a spiritual retreat and an opportunity to connect with the region’s deep-rooted cultural and religious traditions. It’s a serene spot that enriches the visitor’s experience.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Location: Near Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajasthan
9. Explore The Kumbhalgarh Sound & Light Museum
Photo: meitetsu chin / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Kumbhalgarh Sound & Light Museum is a new addition to the list of what to do in Kumbhalgarh. This museum offers a comprehensive and interactive experience of the fort’s history and significance. Using modern audiovisual technology, it narrates the stories of the fort’s rulers, battles, and cultural heritage. The museum makes history accessible and engaging for visitors of all ages, providing an educational and entertaining way to learn about Kumbhalgarh’s rich past.
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fee: ₹50
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Location: Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajasthan
10. Take A Trip To Parshuram Mahadev Temple
Photo: Pexels / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
A visit to the Parshuram Mahadev Temple, in the nearby hills, is one of the intriguing things to see in Kumbhalgarh. This cave temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is accessed via a trek through the hills. It is believed to have been constructed by Parshuram, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple’s serene atmosphere, combined with the natural beauty of the landscape and the mystical stalactites inside the cave, offers a spiritually enriching experience for both devotees and nature lovers.
Ideal Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Location: Near Kumbhalgarh, Rajasthan
Things to do in Kumbhalgarh offer a unique blend of historical grandeur, spiritual tranquillity, and natural beauty. From the Kumbhalgarh Fort to the serene temples and vibrant wildlife sanctuary, this region has something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring its rich history, trekking through the Aravalli Hills, or witnessing the breathtaking Light and Sound Show, Book your trip to Kumbhalgarh with TripXL today and explore one of Rajasthan’s most iconic locations.
Cover Photo: Shail Sharma / Unsplash