Nestled at the base of the Aravalli Hills, Kumbhalgarh is renowned for its iconic fort—one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites, often dubbed the “Great Wall of India” for its impressive size and defence systems. But Kumbhalgarh is much more than just its fort. Places to visit in Kumbhalgarh will transport you into a world of majestic history, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural treasures with serene lakes, ancient temples, and nearby sanctuaries. Kumbhalgarh offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature, making it an ideal destination for any traveller.
10 Places To Visit In Kumbhalgarh
These places to visit in Kumbhalgarh and get ready to start the journey from here:
1. Kumbhalgarh Fort
Photo: Bhawana Gururani / Wikimedia Commons
Immediately after Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh Fort is the second largest fort in Rajasthan and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it one of the major tourist attractions in Kumbhalgarh. Maharana Kumbha built this fort in the 15th century, enclosed within a 36 km long wall 709 feet above sea level, second in length only to the Great Wall of China. The fort is situated on top of the Aravalli Hills and allows an extensive panoramic view of the surroundings. Inside the fort, one finds over 360 temples, palaces, and gardens. The fort is also renowned as the birthplace of Maharana Pratap, among the greatest warriors of Rajputana.
Major Attraction: Fort walls, temples
Ideal Duration: 3 to 4 hours
2. Badal Mahal
Photo: Sujay25 / Wikimedia Commons
Inside the complex of Kumbhalgarh Fort lies the two-storey Badal Mahal, a perspicacious example of the Rajputs’ royal lifestyle. Literally meaning “Palace of Clouds,” it stands at the high point of the fort and provides breathtaking views of the surroundings. It has two parts: one for the females, known as Zanana Mahal, and one for the males, known as Mardana Mahal. The palace is beautifully designed with fine wall paintings. It comprises many rooms, which were designed to allow proper ventilation; hence, even during the peak summer season, the room temperature remains cool. Its serene atmosphere and historical importance make it to the Kumbhalgarh tourist places list.
Major Attraction: Architecture, wall paintings
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours
3. Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Deeksha vyas / Wikimedia Commons
The entire area of Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary covers 578 square kilometres, being a haven for nature and animal lovers and one of the best places to visit in Kumbhalgarh. Many species of animals running wild, such as leopards, sloth bears, wolves, and antelopes, can be found in the sanctuary. Safari, nature treks, and horse riding are among the activities made available for visitors to the sanctuary. It is particularly vibrant during the monsoon season when it dons a lush green landscape. A visit to the sanctuary forms a refreshing break from the historical sights of Kumbhalgarh.
Major Attraction: Wildlife safaris, birdwatching, nature treks
Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 hours
4. Neelkanth Mahadeo Temple
Photo: Shakti / Wikimedia Commons
Neelkanth Mahadeo Temple is an ancient temple of Lord Shiva situated within the complex of Kumbhalgarh Fort and is one of the famous Kumbhalgarh tourist places. The temple houses the deity of Lord Shiva in the form of a 6-foot-tall Shivlinga, worshipped by its devotees. The temple’s architecture is plain yet striking, with its carved pillars and stonework. One can visit the temple to seek blessings and enjoy the surrounding hills’ beautiful views. It holds a great amount of religious importance and charges the atmosphere of the fort even more spiritually.
Major Attraction: Six-foot Shivlinga, temple architecture
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours
5. Vedi Temple
Photo: Deeksha vyas / Wikimedia Commons
Vedi Temple is a beautiful Jain temple located inside Kumbhalgarh Fort, built by Rana Kumbha in honour of the Jain Goddess Vedi. It is a three-storey structure known for its intricate carvings and impressive architecture. The temple holds great religious significance for the Jain community and is one of the few surviving temples in the fort complex. The temple’s peaceful environment and stunning views of the surrounding landscape make it a great spot for both spiritual seekers and architecture enthusiasts. The temple was later restored by Maharana Fateh Singh.
Major Attraction: Intricate carvings
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours
6. Mammadev Temple
Photo: Tho-Ge / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Situated near the Kumbhalgarh Fort, Mammadev Temple is a small yet significant temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is known for its historical importance, as it once housed four massive stone inscriptions that detailed the history of the fort and the reign of Maharana Kumbha. Today, only two of these inscriptions remain, but they are considered vital records of Rajasthan’s history. The temple also has a kund (stepwell) that adds to its beauty.
Major Attraction: Historical stone inscriptions
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours
7. Parshuram Mahadev Temple
Photo: Pexels / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Located in the caves of the Aravalli mountain range, Parshuram Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be the place where Sage Parshuram meditated. Reaching the temple requires a trek of about 500 steps, making it an adventurous experience for visitors. Inside the cave, visitors will find a naturally formed Shivlinga, along with images of Lord Ganesh and other deities. The temple’s spiritual aura, combined with its scenic location, makes it a popular pilgrimage site for devotees and adventure seekers alike.
Major Attraction: Cave temple, trekking
Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 hours
8. Muchhal Mahavir Temple
Photo: Glavo / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Muchhal Mahavir Temple is a beautiful Jain temple located near Kumbhalgarh. It is dedicated to Lord Mahavir and is known for its unique statue of the deity, which has a moustache – a rare depiction. The temple’s architecture is intricate, with beautifully carved pillars and walls that showcase the region’s artistry. The temple is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, making it an ideal spot for those looking to experience both spirituality and natural beauty.
Major Attraction: Unique Jain statue, intricate carvings
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours
9. Haldighati
Photo: Suryapratap18 / Wikimedia Commons
Located about 40 km from Kumbhalgarh, Haldighati is a famous historical site known for the Battle of Haldighati, fought between Maharana Pratap and the Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1576. The battlefield gets its name from the yellow-tinted soil, resembling turmeric (haldi in Hindi). Today, Haldighati is a popular tourist destination where visitors can learn about the bravery of Maharana Pratap. The site also has a museum dedicated to the battle, showcasing artefacts, weapons, and stories from the past.
Major Attraction: Historical Museum
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours
10. Ranakpur Jain Temple
Photo: Banerjeedebasis / Wikimedia Commons
Ranakpur Jain Temple is one of the most famous tourist places in Kumbhalgarh, known for its exquisite architecture and intricate marble carvings. Dedicated to Lord Adinath, the temple is supported by 1,444 uniquely carved marble pillars, each with its own distinct design. The temple complex is massive and peaceful, offering a serene environment for meditation and reflection. The architectural beauty of the temple, combined with its religious significance, makes it one of the most important spiritual places for Kumbhalgarh trip.
Major Attraction: Marble architecture
Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 hoursy
Places to visit in Kumbhalgarh are a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the grandeur of its fort to the serenity of its temples and wildlife sanctuaries, this destination offers a unique blend of experiences for all types of travellers. Ready to embark on an unforgettable journey? Book your Kumbhalgarh trip with TripXL today and explore the wonders of Rajasthan’s rich heritage.
Cover Photo: Rajesh Kapoor / Wikimedia Commons