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Kumbhalgarh Fort, situated amidst the high hills of Aravalli in Rajsamand district of Rajasthan, is among the most important heritages of the glorious history of Mewar. Due to its huge ramparts, strong fort system and historical importance, it is counted among the most special forts of Rajasthan. In the year 2013, Kumbhalgarh was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List along with the Hill Forts of Rajasthan.

Maharana Kumbha got the construction done

The present form of Kumbhalgarh Fort developed mainly in the 15th century during the reign of Maharana Kumbha of Mewar. The construction of the fort began around 1443 AD and took several years to complete.

Architect Mandan is considered to have played an important role in the construction of the fort. The fort was built in such a way that the natural hills of Aravalli became a part of its security system.

Strong center of security of Mewar

Kumbhalgarh was not only a fort for Mewar, but it was also a safe place for the royal family and the army in times of crisis. Due to its high position and strong walls it was not easy for the enemy to reach the fort. Many gates, turrets, temples, palaces and water conservation arrangements were built in the fort. The military strategy and architecture of that time can be estimated from its structure.

great wall of the fort

The biggest features of Kumbhalgarh include its huge ramparts. Its wall is considered to be approximately 36 kilometers long. At many places, its width is so great that it is said locally that several horses can walk on it simultaneously. For this reason, Kumbhalgarh is often compared to the Great Wall of China, although the structure and purpose of both are different.

Birth of Maharana Pratap

The biggest historical importance of Kumbhalgarh is that Maharana Pratap is believed to have been born here in 1540. The childhood of this great warrior of Mewar was connected to this historical region. Maharana Pratap later fought for the independence of Mewar against the Mughal emperor Akbar. Therefore, Kumbhalgarh has special respect as the birthplace of Maharana Pratap.

attacks on the fort

Kumbhalgarh remained an important fort for a long time due to its strong security. It was attacked many times in history. The Mughal army captured the fort in 1578 during the reign of Akbar, although the history of conflict between Mewar and the Mughals is much broader than this. The fort's natural position and strong ramparts kept it strategically important for a long time.

Later history

With time the political circumstances of Mewar changed and the military importance of Kumbhalgarh decreased. Despite this, its historical and architectural identity remained intact. Today Kumbhalgarh is included in the major tourist destinations of Rajasthan. The high hills of the fort offer spectacular views of the surrounding Aravalli ranges.

Why is Kumbhalgarh special?

Kumbhalgarh is recognized for many reasons –

• Important architectural heritage of Maharana Kumbha
• Birthplace of Maharana Pratap
• Huge rampart approximately 36 kilometers long
• Strategic position in the Aravali hills
• Many ancient temples and historical buildings
• Hill Forts of Rajasthan included in UNESCO World Heritage Site