The Glorious Kumbhalgarh Fort
For those with a knack for art and architecture, forts are a sight for sore eyes. And this is exactly the case with me. People often ask me what it is in these walls that I admire. Well, these are not just walls for me. They are living examples of the beautiful sculptures carved with primitive tools out of stones and rocks. It is something that is way beyond today’s mechanized interiors. Kumbhalgarh Fort is not just a specimen of art and workmanship, but it is also a guide back in history and that is what I admire in these magnificent structures called ‘FORTS’.
How to reach Kumbhalgarh Fort?
The closest city to Kumbhalgarh is Ahmedabad, about 353 km away. I specifically prefer this route as Ahmedabad has access to international airports and links for railways. Kumbhalgarh itself does not have a train station, and the nearest station is Ratlam, which is located at a distance of 252 km away from Kumbhalgarh. You can also opt for Ratlam as an option to reach Kumbhalgarh. It takes 6 hours to reach Kumbhalgarh from Ahmedabad. After reaching Ahmedabad airport, I booked a licensed and affordable Ahmedabad airport taxi, to travel to Kumbhalgarh. The journey was comfortable and hassle-free, with unbelievable forest cover in a hot desert that seemed like a relief.
Kumbhalgarh Fort: The Hidden Chapter in the Pages of History
The Kumbhalgarh Fort derives its name in history as the birthplace of Maharana Pratap. It was built in the 15th century by Rana Kumbha. The fort is believed to have faced many problems during the initial years of its construction which were resolved by performing a human sacrifice. I also noticed that the main entrance to the fortress: Hanuman Pol, contains the shrine of the warrior and a small temple to thank and remember the great sacrifice made by him. The fort is famous for being undefeated from all invasions. The fort’s boundary is the second largest wall in the world and is called the ‘Great Wall of India’. Today, it is declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the group – Hill Forts of Rajasthan.
A peek inside the Kumbhalgarh Fort
Kumbhalgarh Fort has an advantage of both, a hill-top vantage point and a forest as a protective cover. I visited the fort at sunrise, the buildings of the palace glow golden in the sun. The entry to the fort is through a large gate in the battlemented walls. At the very top of the fort, is the ‘Badal Mahal’, which seems to be touching the clouds. There are several courtyards, temples and residential rooms inside the fort along with some small shrines, water tanks, and gardens. Unlike most elegant palace complexes of Udaipur, this one is simpler and more functional, which adds to its beauty.
Around the Kumbhalgarh Fort
Kumbhalgarh Fort is famous across the world for its 36 km long-chained structure of walls, which cover the periphery. The wall stretches from hill to hill and is the second-longest never-ending wall of the world after the Great Wall of China. This walled structure across the perimeter of the fort strategically separates the Mewar region from the Marwar region. Another attraction inside the fort is the Badshahi Baldi. It is a stepped tank that was built by a general in the reign of Akbar to provide drinking water to the Mughal army troops in 1578. There are also many temples inside the fort’s complex. According to historians, there are as many as 360 Hindu and Jain temples inside the fort. These make the fort feel alive.
An adieu from the Kumbhalgarh Fort
My visit to the Kumbhalgarh Fort was very refreshing. Every time I visit a historical wonder of ancient times, I get to relive that era, its stories and all of its beautiful architecture. You can avail any reliable car rentals in Ahmedabad for outstation. as it allows you to make the most of your trip. You too should definitely visit the fort if you plan on a tour anywhere close by.
