Kumbhalgarh Fort is about 85 km north of Udaipur, 2.5 hours by road. Built by Rana Kumbha in the 15th century, its wall runs about 36 km, among the longest in the world. Allow 3–4 hours to climb to Badal Mahal and walk part of the wall. Pair it with Ranakpur on the same day.
Key facts
- Built in the 15th century by Rana Kumbha of Mewar
- Wall: about 36 km long
- Birthplace of Maharana Pratap (1540)
- UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2013, as one of the Hill Forts of Rajasthan
From a distance, Kumbhalgarh looks like a fortress drawn by a child: walls snaking over every hill to the horizon. Up close it’s even more impressive.
A little history
Rana Kumbha built the fort in the 15th century on a ridge of the Aravallis, at around 1,100 m. Its wall runs for about 36 km, wide enough in places for several horses to ride side by side, and enclosing hundreds of temples. The fort was taken only once in its history. Maharana Pratap was born here in 1540. In 2013 it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the Hill Forts of Rajasthan.
What to see
- Ram Pol and the main gates.
- Badal Mahal, the Palace of Clouds, at the top. The climb is steep; the view is huge.
- Temples inside the walls, including the Neelkanth Mahadev temple.
- The wall itself. Walk a section for photos of it disappearing over the hills.
Getting there
About 85 km and 2.5 hours from Udaipur by car, through the hills. Leave by 7:30 am to walk in the cooler morning. See car rental rates.
Tickets
ASI tickets are sold at the gate. Check the current price there.
Light show
An evening sound and light show tells the fort’s story. To see it, stay overnight at a resort near the fort.
What to carry
- Water and a hat; it’s exposed.
- Shoes with grip; the climb to Badal Mahal is steep.
- A jacket in winter.
Combine with
Ranakpur, 50 km away, open to non-Jain visitors from noon. See Kumbhalgarh and Ranakpur in one day. For Pratap’s story, see Maharana Pratap and Chetak.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to see Kumbhalgarh Fort?
Three to four hours to reach Badal Mahal, see the temples and walk a section of the wall.
Is there a light and sound show at Kumbhalgarh?
Yes, in the evening. If you want to see it, stay overnight nearby rather than driving back to Udaipur in the dark.
Can I do Kumbhalgarh and Ranakpur in one day?
Yes. Visit Kumbhalgarh in the morning and Ranakpur after noon. See our one-day plan.
