Kumbhalgarh Fort Festival

In the last phase of winter, are you longing for a quiet getaway? You must visit Kumbhalgarh, a small town in Rajsamand district. Only a handful of people have heard about this place, although it is the second most important town after Chittorgarh.

The major attraction of Kumbhalgarh is its fort – a mighty structure on the Aravali Range, at a height of 1100 m from sea level. 7 gates, more than 350 temples, a perimeter of about 36 km, etc speak of its massive expanse. One can catch a glimpse of the sand dunes of the Thar Desert from the palace.  Other  aspects to check out here are expansive jungles, walking trails, Wildlife Sanctuary, Reserve Forest, Crocodile Farm – Kumbhalgarh is indeed a highly enriched reserve of flora and fauna.

Kumbhalgarh (also called Kumbhalmer or Kumbalgarh) is a Mewar fortress in the Rajsamand District of Rajasthan. (Photo: Virendra Mandalia)

Built during the course of the 15th century CE by Rana Kumbha , and enlarged through the 1800s, Kumbhalgarh is also a birthplace of Maharana Pratap, the great king and warrior of Mewar. (Photo: Virendra Mandalia)

Kumbalgarh is situated 82 km from Udaipur. (Photo: Virendra Mandalia)

Kumbhalgarh is well connected by road to major towns of Rajasthan. So, if you happen to be holidaying anywhere in Rajasthan, add this town in your itinerary right away!

As an initiative by the Department of Tourism, Art and Culture of Government of Rajasthan, various fairs, festivals and cultural programmes are held round the year. The Kumbhalgarh fort festival is one of them; and is coming up shortly – from 28^th to 30^th January, 2013.

The much talked about Camel Festival is at Bikaner from 26^th to 27^th January. Make use of the weekend from 26^th January (Saturday), and be in Rajasthan till the 30^th. Two back to back festivals that showcase the rich culture of India – what could be better?

The Kumbhalgarh festival is preceded by a heritage walk, where one is brought abreast with the historical background of the place. It tells you about various mythological beliefs associated with the erection of this fort, as early as the fifteenth century. Maharana Kumbha, the powerful king who built the fort, was also a patron of fine arts, architecture and education.

Kumbhalgarh has world’s second largest wall – of 36 kilometers length. Lighting on monuments and wall is major attraction. (Photo: Harit Kothari)

The festival celebrates the Rana’s dedication to performing arts in the form of a classical dance festival, wherein the best dancers from all over the country perform. The festivities continue throughout the day. Folk dances, drama and competitive activities and games for the tourists, including children, take place during the day. You can also bite into the indigenous food as you walk around, or enjoy the activities. The evenings come alive as the monument is lit up, creating a perfect backdrop. Stunning light and sound shows mesmerize you with the play of light and shade. Music fills the air as dance performances take place, interacting with the heritage.  You’ll never forget the experience of watching live these performances and the dazzling play of light, shade and sound.

Ranakpur: Adinath Jain Temple, built in the 15th century. The uncarved exterior of the temple contrasts with the profuse decoration inside. (Photo: David Nygren)

While you are there, you may also visit Ranakpur Jain Temples, which are a group of temples made out of amazing handiwork on marble stone. Also visit the Parshuram temples, and Dilwara temple if you have time.