CITIES IN RAJASTHAN - KUMBHALGARH

 

Cradled in the cluster of thirteen mountain peaks of the Aravalli ranges in Southern Rajasthan, the formidable medieval citadel of Kumbhalgarh is the most important fort in the Mewar region after Chittaurgarh. It is a secluded place, built by Maharana Kumbha in the 15th century and owing to its inaccessibility on top of the Aravalli ranges at 110m, it was taken only once in its history. Even then it took the combined forces of the Mughal emperor Akbar and those of Amber and Marwar to breach its defences. It was here that the rulers of Mewar retreated in times of danger. The walls of the fort stretch some 36km and enclose many temples, palaces, gardens and water storage facilities. Rounded bastions and soaring watch-towers strengthen the crenellated walls of the fort making it an impregnable structure.

Fascinating chambers are built on the western side of the last gate, the 'Nimboo Pol'. According to history, the infant Udai Singh was smuggled from Bundi and hidden in these chambers by his faithful maid Panna Dai to save him from the murderous intentions of his Uncles who desired the throne. Udai Singh ascended the throne of Mewar with Kumbhalgarh as his residence and later established Udaipur.

The most picturesque of the palace is the 'Badal Mahal' or Palace of Clouds. The palace has got its name for being the highest of all the structures. It offers a superb bird's eye view of the countryside surrounding the fort. There are several temples within the fort such as a Jain temple, a Kali temple and a Shiva temple that enshrines a fine black marble lingam.

PLACES TO SEE

Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary -located to the west of the fort is a 586 sq. km forested area that supports a rich variety of wildlife particularly wolves. Other wildlife to be seen here include four horned antelope, leopards, sloth bears, sambar, hyena, flying squirrel, crocodiles and wild boars. Birds to be seen include flamingoes, cormorants, spoonbills and egrets usually seen in winter. This is a very pleasant place to visit. Old tracks, still used by camel trains, lead through the sanctuary & are ideal for exploring on foot or horseback. The scarcity of water holes between March and June makes it an ideal time to see the animals.

Muchhal Mahavira Temple -located in the premises of the Kumbhalgarh Sanctuary is this interesting Jain temple. Its distinctive feature is the statue of Mahavira, the founder of Jainism, with a moustache. The two statues of elephants guarding the gateways are splendid examples of architecture.

Suggested Itinerary :INDIA - FORTS, PALACES & TEMPLES OF NORTHERN INDIA - 18 DAYS
DELHI / VARANASI / KHAJURAHO / AGRA / JAIPUR / SAMODE / KHIMSAR / JAISALMER / OSIYAN / JODHPUR / RANAKPUR / KUMBALGHAR / UDAIPUR / DELHI

 

CITIES IN RAJASTHAN - RANAKPUR

 

Ranakpur is one of the largest and most important Jain temple complex lying in a remote valley of the Aravalli ranges in Southern Rajasthan. These temples were created in the 15th century AD during the reign of Rana Kumbha and are enclosed within a wall. They are well preserved and in near perfect condition. The main 'Chaumukh Temple' or Four Faced Temple is dedicated to the first tirthankar (apostle) Adinath. Built in 1439, this huge superbly carved temple has 29 halls supported by 1444 pillars, all distinctly carved and no two alike and enshrines the four-faced image of Adinath. Rising in three storeys, the temple has four small shrines with 80 spires supported by 420 columns. Within the complex are two other temples dedicated to Neminath and Parsvanath. The temples have beautiful carvings similar to that of Khajuraho. There is also a Sun Temple, located a little distance away. The temple has polygonal walls richly embellished with carvings of warriors, horses and solar deities riding splendid chariots. A kilometer away from the main complex is located the Amba Mata Temple, dedicated to a form of goddess Durga. Please note shoes and all leather articles must be left at the entrance before entering the temple.

AROUND RANAKPUR

Narlai -located 6km from Ranakpur, lies this town at the base of a hillock, on the top of which is a colossal statue of an elephant. There are many Hindu and Jain temples in the area. The temple of Adinath has a mandap (pillared hall) with beautiful mural paintings on its ceiling which still retain their original splendor. There is also a fine Baoli (step well).