Kumbhalgarh Fort is a majestic fortress located in the Rajsamand district near Udaipur, Rajasthan, India. Here are some key points about Kumbhalgarh Fort:
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History: Kumbhalgarh Fort was built in the 15th century by Rana Kumbha, a ruler of the Mewar Kingdom. Construction of the fort began in 1443 and continued for several decades. It served as a strategic stronghold to defend the kingdom against invasions from neighboring regions.
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Architecture: Kumbhalgarh Fort is renowned for its impressive architecture and formidable defensive walls. The fort is surrounded by a 36-kilometer-long (22-mile) wall, which is one of the longest in the world and second only to the Great Wall of China. The walls are thick and sturdy, reaching a height of 15 meters (49 feet) in some places, with seven fortified gateways and numerous bastions and watchtowers.
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Structures: Within the fort complex, there are several notable structures, including the Palace of Rana Kumbha, Badal Mahal (Cloud Palace), Kumbha Palace, and numerous temples dedicated to Hindu deities. The palace complexes feature intricate carvings, beautiful frescoes, and architectural elements characteristic of Rajput and Mughal styles.
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Vedic Astronomy: Kumbhalgarh Fort is also known for its association with Vedic astronomy. It is believed that Maharana Kumbha was an avid patron of astronomy and had an observatory built within the fort complex to study celestial phenomena.
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Strategic Importance: Due to its strategic location atop a hill in the Aravalli Range, Kumbhalgarh Fort was virtually impregnable and served as a refuge for the rulers of Mewar during times of conflict. Its formidable defenses and natural topography made it one of the most secure fortresses in Rajasthan.
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Tourist Attraction: Today, Kumbhalgarh Fort is a popular tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the fort's ramparts, palaces, temples, and other architectural marvels, as well as enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from its elevated vantage points.
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Accessibility: Kumbhalgarh Fort is located approximately 84 kilometers (52 miles) northwest of Udaipur and is accessible by road. It is often visited as a day trip from Udaipur, along with other nearby attractions such as Ranakpur Jain Temple and the Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary.
Overall, Kumbhalgarh Fort stands as a testament to the military prowess, architectural excellence, and rich cultural heritage of the Mewar Kingdom. It continues to captivate visitors with its grandeur and historical significance.