Camp Wolf

Today, I am here to take you on a magnificent journey to the Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary. Named after the historic Kumbhalgarh Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the nature park is on a very picturesque bend. The wild flora and fauna of the place are set within beautiful grounds nestled amongst Aravalli ranges and sparkling river streams. In between are the Kumbhalgarh Fort and the Ranakpur Jain Temples that overlook the sanctuary. So, your visit to this nature park will not just be a wildlife adventure but also a historic excursion never experienced before.

The Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary is spread across a lush green area of 578 sq. km. The park is one of the best wildlife havens I have known in my more than two decades of a career as a wildlife photographer. I have encountered several endangered species that are at the heart of this wildlife refuge.

Well, there is much more to the charm of this sanctuary - which I would like to share before you pack your bags for this wildlife getaway. The place is home to a number of Garasia and Bhil Tribes that dwell in their traditional huts. You can explore the place with us on a walking safari!

The flora of the Wildlife Sanctuary in Kumbhalgarh is mainly herbs. The species of Churel, Dhok, Khair, and Salar grow abundantly among others. Coming to the fauna, there are Leopards, Sloth bear, Wolf, Hyena, Jackal, Jungle Cat, Sambhar, Nilgai, Four-horned Antelope, Chinkara and Hare. I frequently spot Nilgais, Chinkaras, and four-horned antelopes crossing roads inside the park.

If you are a bird watching fan like me, you can spot innumerable spectacular species of Aves here. Parakeets, Golden Oriole, Grey Pigeons, Red Spur Owls, Grey Jungle Fowl, Bulbul, and white-breasted kingfisher are easily seen.

Now, let me introduce history lovers to some fun facts of the Wildlife Sanctuary in Kumbhalgarh. The Kumbhalgarh Fort inside the nature park is one of the most prominent attractions in Rajasthan. The fort is situated at a height of 1100m and was built in 1458 by Maharana Kumbha. The walls of the fort extend along a length of 36 km. We can have this mesmerising view from an elevated point inside the fort. As we enter the fort, you can see several ancient palaces and temples. Badal Mahal or Cloud Palace sitting at the peak attract tourists the most.

Another famous attraction, the Ranakpur Jain Temples are a complex one of the largest and most significant Jain temples in India. The main temple ‘Chaumukha’ build in 1439 is made of marble and has 29 halls supported by 1444 pillars. The temple is dedicated to Adinath. A stone throw away is two other Jain temples and a Sun temple. We can visit the attractions between 12 noon to 5 pm.

How To Visit Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary?

The Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary is just over a 2-hour drive from Udaipur, my hometown. We can take the route via Maharana Pratap Marg or follow NH27 that takes us straight to the Kumbhalgarh Fort. Taxi or bus service is easily available from Udaipur to the Wildlife Sanctuary in Kumbhalgarh.

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