Fodor's Expert Review Kumbhalgarh Fort

When you set eyes on this formidable, isolated fort, you'll understand its role in the history of these parts, and why it's venerated as a symbol of Rajput valor. This citadel, the largest wall in India, and the second longest wall in the world after the Great Wall of China, is situated some 3,600 feet above sea level. It was well equipped to withstand any kind of siege and was largely the reason the Rajasthani state of Mewar was able resist conquest by Mughal forces time and time again. Although there's less to see here than at Chittaurgarh, it's worth the 2½-hour drive from Udaipur and is a relatively smooth drive through lovely scenery. Kumbhalgarh Fort is also close enough to Ranakpur that you could visit both it and Ranakpur in one day. Ideally, you'll stop here on a car trip between Udaipur and Jodhpur.

Built in the 15th century by Maharana Kumbha, one of the mightiest rulers of Mewar, the fort’s massive ramparts run 36 km (22 miles) and can be seen from a distance, and the outer wall encloses an area of 83 square km (32 square miles). You enter through colossal gates (Ram Pol) that might have scared off any enemy. The views of the countryside from Badal Mahal (Cloud Palace)—the fort is one of the highest points in the state—are far-reaching. At one time its ramparts nearly encircled an entire township, with nearly 400 temples (you can still see many of them today), self-contained to withstand a prolonged attack. The fort succumbed just once—to the army of Akbar when there was a shortage of water—and was the birthplace of the much-revered Maharana Pratap. There's a small, bland café that serves light snacks and drinks. Take a hat and bring some water with you, because Kumbhalgarh can be quite hot in the day and there's little shade.