Kumbhalgarh Fort and Ranakpur Jain Temple

Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajasthan

It was my 26^th birthday and I decide to treat myself by visiting the Kumbhalgarh Fort. Located 85 kms from the Udaipur city, Kumbhalgarh fort was built by Rana Kumbha. The Kumbhalgarh is the most important fort in Mewar after the Chittorgarh fort. But personally I liked Kumbhalgarh Fort more than Chittorgarh Fort. It is maintained in a better way, architecturally more beautiful and most importantly it is very peaceful.

Before getting into details, I will start with how to reach this fort. Well, this fort is situated about 82 kms northwest of Udaipur city and it is not as easy to reach as Chittorgarh. For going here you need to hire a cab or taxi as there is no local bus service here. The best way to visit this fort is by taking a single day tour from Udaipur along-with Ranakpur Jain Temple.

When our driver informed us that we will pass through the villages, I thought being Rajasthan, we will pass through vast deserts as shown in television. But to our surprise we pass through number of vegetation, fields and water bodies. The route is scenic and the roads are good, making the drive a pleasant one. We were lucky to get a good driver, one who kept telling us all about the area. There are lots and lots of trees, fields were men and women were busy farming and collecting woods. Though it is just 85 kilometers from Udaipur, it took us 2 hours to reach there.

The Kumbhalgarh Fort is guarded by seven huge gates. The massive entrance gate of the fort is known as Ram Pol.  This gate itself is a symbol of the sheer grandness of this fort. Considered to be the second longest wall in the world after the Great Wall of China, the wall runs through surrounding mountain cliffs of the Aravali range. Standing magnificently on 1180m high ridge and representing the past glory of the Rajput rulers, the Fort also provides an amazing view of the countryside from the top.

We started our trek up the long meandering path. Our destination was the Badal Mahal, named so because of its situation at the highest point of the fort. Badal Mahal also known as the Palace of Clouds was built by Rana Fateh Singh. The palace had a separate section for males and females. It was a refuge house for the rulers of Mewar in times of strife. The fort also served as refuge to the baby king Udai of Mewar. Roof of this palace offer an excellent view of Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary spreading over the Aravali Hills.

Beside the Badal Mahal, there are 360 temples inside the walls of the fort, 300 of them are Jain and the rest are Hindu temples. The architecture of the fort is really remarkable and the walk around it takes you back in time to the royal era gone by. The fort also houses some of the palaces which are simply magnificent. The visit to such a superb fort is truly worth it.

Our next destination was Ranakpur Jain Temple. Thought it is said to be just 40 kilometres, it took around an hour and half to us (including lunch stay). Built of white marble, it is also one of the most remarkable and stands in the league of the famous Dilwara temples of Rajasthan. The temple was constructed in 1437 by Dharna Shah under the patronage of Rana Kumbha.

It has 24 pillared halls with 80 domes that are supported by 400 columns. The upper and lower parts of the domes are linked by brackets that have deities’ sculptures. Above all, you would be amazed to see at a height of 45 feet decorated elves playing the flute in various dance poses. Each column is intricately carved and it is astonishing to know that no two columns have the similar design.

Amazing design, calm atmosphere and wonderful architecture is what defines Ranakpur Temple.

Chittorgarh

Chittorgarh, Rajasthan

This post has been pending since a long time. Being a lover of forts and monuments, visiting Chittorgarh Fort was definitely on top priority when I visited Udaipur. Chittorgarh lies just at a distance of 112 kms from the city of Udaipur in Rajasthan. You can take a local bus through which you can reach there in three to four hours enjoying the local bus ride or you can hire a cab. But I would suggest if you are rough and tough like me then only opt for a local bus otherwise take a cab. 

Native of the place- Inside the local bus

Considered to be the largest fort of India in terms of area, it is spread in an area of 700 acres, extending to 3 kms in length and 13 kms in its peripheral length. Standing on an elevated hill of 180metres, the fort is an epithet of chivalry and pride of the Rajputs. According to historians it was constructed by the Mauryans during the 7th century AD and hence derives its name after the Mauryan ruler, Chitrangada Mori as per inscriptions on coins of the period. Historical record shows that Chittorgarh fort was the capital of Mewar for 834 years. It is not one of the maintained forts of Rajasthan, but it is definitely one of the significant forts in the history of Rajasthan.

View from the fort

Since it is on a hill we took a local tempo (bigger one) to visit the place. It was a bright and sunny afternoon, quite a hot day. The fort houses many historical places. The first palace after entering the fort is- Rana Kumbha’s Palace. Though not very maintained, its structure is still attractive. Its structure definitely gives a glimpse of the royal era gone by.

Rana Kumbha's Palace

Rana Kumbha's Palace

Rana Kumbha's Palace

This fort is dotted by number of palaces, temples and water bodies. It includes- Rana Kumbha’s Palace, Kumbhashyam Temple, Mira Temple, Vijay Sthambh, Rani Padmini’s Palace, Gaumukh Kund. My personal favourite was Rani Padmini’s Palace mainly because it is well maintained than any other spots there and secondly there were interesting versions of stories told by different guides there. It is very evident that during Padmini’s time, this must have been a really wonderful place, with beautiful flower gardens and a lotus filled pond. But today, the stagnant pond is dull and the localities use it as a spot to dry the clothes.

From the top I can see the whole city and the view was simply beautiful.

View from top of  the fort

Our guide cum auto driver also showed us an area where opium is legally grown under very strict conditions for medicinal purposes. Though Chittorgarh is in decay today, still it is one of the oldest forts of India. It has survived through various decades and conquered from one ruler to another.  

Here are some interesting facts about this historical fort-

·       Chittorgarh Fort is the largest fort in India.

·      Chittorgarh Fort complex has a total of 65 medieval structures which includes 4 palaces, 19 temples, 4 war memorials or the Stambhs and 22 water bodies.

      Entrance to this massive hill fort is through seven colossal gates, which are named Bhairon Pol, Lakshma Pol, Padan Pol, Hanuman Pol, Jorla Pol, Ganesh Pol and the formidable final gate named Ram Pol.

·    Some of the major attractions inside Chittorgarh fort include the two towers known as the 'Kirti Stambh' (Tower of Fame) and the 'Vijay Stambh' (Tower of Victory)

 Chittorgarh Fort has witnessed 3 sieges and 2 acts of jauhars by the ladies of the Sisodia Rajput court.

·         Jauhar or the self immolation in fire was first performed by Rani Padmini in 1433 AD when Alaudin Khilji defeted the forces of Rana Ratan Singh.

·      It was performed yet again by Rani Karnavati in 1535 AD and it is said that 13,000 Rajput ladies participated in the act even as 3000 Rajput warriors rode out to their certain death.

·     
    The Padmini palace, residence of legendary beauty Rani Padmini is another major attraction inside Chittorgarh Fort.
  The fort and the city of Chittorgarh host the biggest Rajput festival called the "Jauhar Mela" (February - March) which takes place every year on the anniversary of one of the Rani Padmini’s jauhar.

Jaipur, Rajasthan

JAIPUR- The Pink City

Like my first trip to Jaipur the second and third trip was also unplanned. Popularly known as the pink city, it is just 250 kilometers from Delhi and therefore one of the most favored weekend destinations for Delhites. I have been there twice recently and once two years back so this blog post has been pending since a long time. Rajasthan being my favorite place to visit I definitely don’t mind visiting its capital city number of times. After visiting Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Ranthambore and Mount Abu are the only three destinations of Rajasthan where I still need to visit.

I am biased towards Rajasthan as a state. One reason is definitely their welcoming attitude and humbleness. The other reason for me being in love with this colorful state is its forts and palaces that are quite well-maintained. I have already been to Jodhpur, Udaipur, Bikaner but after visiting Jaipur I realized that the capital city is different from the other cities. Obviously being a capital, Jaipur is much more developed than the other cities. And moreover you can find lots of Delhites if you are there on weekend. My trip to this city was completed in three visits and hence this post will have photos of two qualities- one of a simple digital camera and one of a DSLR.

This city is a gem in the crown of royal Rajasthan. It is the best showcase of the magnificent grandeur that Rajasthan is famed for all over India and the world.

It is nearby to Delhi (NCR). The highways are pretty decent (other than in rainy season) and hence it is easy to drive. But you can also take a deluxe bus or a Volvo from Delhi which is easily available even if you plan a last time trip like me. Trains are also available but for that you need to plan in advance otherwise it is quite a busy route.

From the feedback the received from my last posts, I decided to divide my post into three parts-

•         Places to visit in Jaipur
•         Places to shop in Jaipur
•       Must try food

Coming to the places to visit, I would say there are lots of places to visit here if you are fond of forts and palaces. And I being a lover of forts and palaces just love this place. You can easily divide your days here for a planned visit otherwise you are bond to miss out one or the other places of visiting here. But before starting your journey you must carry loads of water, a comfortable pair of walking shoes, hat, sunscreen lotion and sunglasses.

Day 1- You can start your visit with the most famous Amber Fort. Located on a hill which is 11 Km away from Jaipur, this fort is known for its unique artistic style, blending both Hindu and Muslim architecture. The Fort imposes rugged structure from outside ornate and lavish interior. The fort houses lots of sub-halls and palaces.

This royal fort houses- Diwan-e-Aam meaning the "Hall of Public Audience", the Diwan-e-Khas means the "Hall of Private Audience", the Sheesh Mahal (a beautiful mirror palace)/ Jai Mandir, and the Sukh Niwas where a cool climate is artificially created by winds that blow over the water cascading within the palace. The fort is very well maintained.

There is a small area inside the fort where you can shop the traditional jhumkis, dupattas, key rings and paintings. And if you are fond of puppetry show like me then you can enjoy a small string puppetry show also there. Snake charmers are also here. I took whole half day to visit this fort.  

After visiting this huge fort, head back to city have a lunch and then move ahead to the second visit of the day. The City Palace- It is an amalgamation of several palaces, pavilions, gardens and museum. The most visited structures in the complex are the Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, Mukut Mahal, Maharani’s Palace and the City Palace Museum. By the time you will finish visiting this palace, it will be evening so head back to Amber Fort for a relaxing sound and light program.

On the way back to the fort, you can stop briefly to watch the golden rays of evening sun fall on Jal Mahal, a small palace built in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. Though you cannot visit the Jal Mahal, as it is closed by government still you can just stop by and enjoy the cool breeze.

The light and sound show that has Amber as the backdrop and is a must attend to know more about the heritage and history. So, if you get time come back here again in the evening and enjoy this show. This musical extravaganza has highlighted the local legends, folklore and a connoisseur of folk music that continues to give Rajasthan its unique identity. My personal  favourite is the Sarangi music played there. The show has been set in a very exotic location with the panoramic view of the Amber Fort & Palace Complex in the front, the rising Jaigarh on the left, the hills at the back and the gallery itself in the Kesar Kiyari Complex of Maota Lake. The Show runs on daily basis at 6:30 pm (Hindi Language) and in English at 07:30 pm.  This show is for 50 minutes. And approx Tariff for the Indian National is Rs.100 and Foreign nationals- Rs.200.

Have dinner and drive back to your hotel and have a good night’s sleep, because next day is going to be a busy day.

Day-2- Start afresh with Jaigarh Fort is 15 kms from Jaipur, standing on a hilltop, overlooking the palaces and city of Amer. The world’s biggest cannon on wheels- the Jai Ban is positioned here. The only disappointing thing of this fort is that it is not maintained like Amber Fort.

Then head to Nahargarh Fort. Personally it is my favorite place in Jaipur. It is adorned by small rooms, beautiful paintings and marvelous architecture. The yellow colored walls with beautiful home like structure make this place my favorite monument of Jaipur. Since I have been there number of times now and every time with new set of people every time, I introduce this place as my home. Besides its architecture, one thing that makes this fort even spectacular is the view of the Jaipur city from its roof top.  

After visiting these two you can come back to the main city have lunch relax and do some local shopping.

Day-3- The third day you can visit the Hawa Mahal. Though there is nothing much inside only a structure, you can definitely do some shopping near by the Mahal. If you have left with time then you can also visit Jantar Mantar.

You can complete you visit there with an evening visit to Chokhi Dhani. The place showcases the authentic culture of rural Rajasthan. I was awe stuck and completely impressed with its offering when I visited it for the first.

Wherever I took my eyes I was amazed by the happenings around. The Kalbelia dance, the puppetry show, the magic show, camel cart, horse riding, boating, bullock cart, a tree decorated with lamp, haveli like small houses, paintings on the wall etc. There are earthen lamps and paintings to beautify the whole place. And what amazed me the most is the humbleness of the people there. So, every time I visit Jaipur, I make it a point to visit Chokhi Dhani also.

Places to shop in Jaipur-

The Jaipur bazaars are a treat for those who love to shop, especially for those who loves handicrafts. There is Johari Bazaar, Kishanpole Bazaar and Chaura Rasta run north to south while Tripolia Bazaar and Chandpole Bazaar run east to west. Chameliwala Market situated in MI Road is the real hidden gem for gems and jewelry buying. Here you can get authentic gems and silver jewelry at wholesale prices.

Must try food in Jaipur-

If you are vegetarian then Pyaaz kachori is a must try. And if you are a non-vegetarian like me then Pyaaz kachori and Keema Bati both are worth eating. There is a wonderful variety on offer and one can try everything from the most awesome sweets like Ghewar which is a especiality of this pink city to piping hot pyaaz kachoris which are favorite of the locals with a cup of tea. I loved the gol gappe from the local revri also.

So, as a whole Jaipur is a very rich city. In terms of places to visit, things to shop and food to eat, it offers it visitors an amazing array of experience.

Alwar

Alwar, Rajasthan

It was an unplanned trip. We just thought to take a day off and go somewhere. I had a busy day at office so could not plan anything substantial. And without any planning we just headed to Alwar. Though the trip did not proved that wonderful to write about it, but still I thought before I forget it I will just jot down the things that I liked there. First of all Alwar is not that a great place to visit from the point of view of a tourist. But there is something worth visiting everywhere and hence this post.

Alwar is considered as the gateway of Rajasthan. It is very easy to reach there as it is just 160 km South from Delhi. And the road that connects Alwar from Delhi is in good condition. The only place to visit here is the Bala Fort also known as the Alwar Fort. 

The way to the fort is very interesting. We enjoyed the beauty of Aravalis hills on our drive to the fort. Beautiful peacocks are also in abundance to welcome the tourists at every turn.

Don’t expect it to be a great fort, like many other forts of Rajasthan. Most of the structures within the ramparts lie in ruins; the remains are also very simplistically maintained. And a special permission is required from the Superintendent of Police, Alwar to visit the place.