A Kumbhalgarh and Mount Abu Tour is a wonderful way to explore two of Rajasthan's most significant destinations, each offering a unique combination of history, nature, and culture. Both locations are famous for their stunning landscapes, historical monuments, and peaceful ambiance, making this tour a perfect blend of heritage and natural beauty.
Here’s a detailed itinerary for a Kumbhalgarh and Mount Abu Tour that covers the key attractions, travel tips, and essential information to make the most of your visit.
Arrival in Udaipur and Transfer to Kumbhalgarh
Morning: Arrival in Udaipur Begin your journey by arriving in Udaipur, which is the nearest major city to both Kumbhalgarh and Mount Abu. Udaipur is well-connected by road, rail, and air to most major cities in India. From the airport or railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a private car to reach Kumbhalgarh, located about 85 kilometers (around 2 to 2.5 hours) from Udaipur.
Afternoon: Arrival and Check-in Arrive in Kumbhalgarh, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for the mighty Kumbhalgarh Fort, one of the largest forts in Rajasthan. Upon arrival, check into your hotel or a nearby resort. Kumbhalgarh has several luxurious resorts and guesthouses, offering views of the fort and surrounding hills.
Evening: Kumbhalgarh Fort Light and Sound Show After settling into your accommodation, head towards the Kumbhalgarh Fort for the Light and Sound Show. This show narrates the fort's glorious history, bringing to life the battles and victories fought here. The fort is beautifully illuminated at night, providing a stunning visual experience.
Explore Kumbhalgarh Fort and Surroundings
Morning: Kumbhalgarh Fort Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Kumbhalgarh Fort, which stands on the westerly range of the Aravalli Hills. The fort, built in the 15th century by Maharana Kumbha, is known for its massive walls, which are second only to the Great Wall of China in terms of length. The fort houses several temples, palaces, and gardens within its massive walls.
Key highlights of the fort include:
- The Main Gate: Known as the Hanuman Pol, which leads to the main section of the fort.
- Badal Mahal: The "Palace of Clouds" offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
- The Temples: Inside the fort, you'll find ancient temples dedicated to Hindu deities, including the Jain Temples.
- The Fort Walls: Walk along the fort's ramparts and marvel at the sheer scale of the structure, which stretches over 36 kilometers in total.
Afternoon: Explore the Surroundings After exploring the fort, take a walk around the scenic surroundings of Kumbhalgarh. The area is rich in natural beauty, with dense forests, hills, and wildlife. The Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, located nearby, is home to various species like leopards, wolves, and chital deer. If you're a nature enthusiast, you can take a short hike or safari into the sanctuary to enjoy its flora and fauna.
Evening: Relax and Dinner In the evening, return to your hotel to relax and unwind. Many resorts offer traditional Rajasthani cuisine, which you can enjoy during a relaxing dinner.
Travel to Mount Abu
Morning: Departure from Kumbhalgarh to Mount Abu After breakfast, depart from Kumbhalgarh and head to Mount Abu, Rajasthan’s only hill station, situated about 165 kilometers (around 4 to 5 hours) away from Kumbhalgarh. Mount Abu is perched on the Aravalli Range and offers a cool climate, lush greenery, and beautiful landscapes.
Afternoon: Arrival in Mount Abu and Check-in Upon arrival in Mount Abu, check in to your hotel. Mount Abu has a range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to luxury resorts, many offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
**Evening: Sunset at Sunset Point After refreshing at your hotel, head to Sunset Point, one of the most famous spots in Mount Abu to watch the breathtaking sunset. The viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys, and the sight of the sun setting over the hills is a mesmerizing experience. It’s a perfect spot to relax and take in the natural beauty of the region.
Explore Mount Abu
Morning: Dilwara Temples Start your day with a visit to the Dilwara Temples, one of the finest examples of Indian architecture. These Jain temples were built between the 11th and 13th centuries and are known for their intricate marble carvings and detailed work. The temples are dedicated to various Jain Tirthankaras and are considered sacred by followers of Jainism.
The Vimal Vasahi and Luna Vasahi temples are the most famous of the five temples at Dilwara. The stunning carvings on the walls, ceilings, and pillars will leave you awestruck. This is a must-visit spot for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Afternoon: Nakki Lake Next, head to Nakki Lake, a serene lake in the heart of Mount Abu. Surrounded by hills, the lake offers a tranquil atmosphere for boating. You can take a boat ride on the lake, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views. The lake is also home to small temples and eateries along its banks, making it a popular spot for tourists.
Evening: Explore the Market and Local Attractions After exploring Nakki Lake, take a stroll around the local markets in Mount Abu, which sell traditional handicrafts, souvenirs, and Rajasthani textiles. You can also visit Brahma Kumaris, an international spiritual organization that has its headquarters in Mount Abu. The peaceful environment here is ideal for meditation.
Return Journey from Mount Abu
After a relaxing morning, depending on your travel schedule, you can either return to Udaipur (165 km) or continue your onward journey from Mount Abu. You can opt for a private car or a bus to reach Udaipur, where you can catch a flight or train back home.
Key Attractions to Include in the Kumbhalgarh and Mount Abu Tour
- Kumbhalgarh Fort – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its massive walls and panoramic views.
- Badal Mahal – A palace within the fort offering stunning views of the landscape.
- Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary – A sanctuary for wildlife lovers, offering safari and hiking opportunities.
- Dilwara Temples – Famous Jain temples known for their marble architecture.
- Nakki Lake – A serene lake offering boating and beautiful views.
- Sunset Point – A perfect spot to watch the sunset and enjoy the natural beauty of Mount Abu.
- Brahma Kumaris – A spiritual center in Mount Abu offering peace and tranquility.
Travel Tips for Kumbhalgarh and Mount Abu Tour
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
- What to Pack: Since Kumbhalgarh is located in the semi-desert region, pack light, comfortable clothing and sun protection (hats, sunscreen). For Mount Abu, pack a light jacket, especially if you're visiting in the evening when the temperatures drop.
- Travel Mode: Hiring a private vehicle is the most comfortable and convenient way to travel between Kumbhalgarh and Mount Abu, especially since the road journey can take a few hours.
- Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying local Rajasthani cuisine like Dal Baati Churma, Gatte Ki Sabzi, and Laal Maas during your visit to both Kumbhalgarh and Mount Abu.