Kumbhalgarh In Winter: Fort Timings, Safari, Entry Fee And Weekend Travel Plan

The Kumbhalgarh region of Rajasthan has many features worthy of being explored. Perhaps the crowning feature of these is the eponymous fort. Nestled in the emerald forests of the Aravalli Hills, the Kumbhalgarh Fort houses a structure that is famously dubbed the ‘Great Wall of India.’ Obviously, this is a reference to the Great Wall of China, which is famous for being the longest continuous wall in the world. But did you know that the one in Kumbhalgarh is only the second-longest continuous wall in the world? If you’re interested in visiting this humongous structure, this unstumbled guide will certainly come in handy.

Kumbhalgarh Fort: Timings And Ticket Fees

Needless to say, the Kumbhalgarh Fort is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). As such, visitor entry is governed by standard operating hours and digital ticketing policies.

The fort is open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM. If you’re keen on beating the crowd, arrive precisely at 9 AM. Plus, it will also allow you to explore the Badal Mahal before the heat of the afternoon.

The Sound and Light Show, also called Dhwanik and Prakash Pradarshan, is held every evening around 6:45 PM inside the fort complex. It generally goes on till 7:30 PM and is narrated in Hindi. The dramatic lighting on the walls of the main palace structure presents an enthralling narrative about the history and military defense of Mewar.

Entry Fees

Indian Citizens or SAARC: INR 40 per person for Fort Monument Entry

INR 100 per person for the Light and Sound Show

Foreign Nationals: INR 600 per person for the Fort Monument Entry

INR 250 per person for the Light and Sound Show

Children Below 15 Years: Free Entry

Also Read: Udaipur Old City Guide: 5 Historic Gems You Simply Can’t Miss

Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary Jungle Safari Guide

For the lovers of forests and all things green, there is a tranquil, dense Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary flanking this historic structure. It stretches across a massive 600 sq km, across the ridges of the Aravalli. This landscape is famous for being one of the rare places where the elusive Indian Wolf can be spotted. In addition to this species, you can also spot leopards, sloth bears, hyenas, chinkara gazelles, and over 200 species of forest birds.

Understand Winter Safari Shifts

During the winter, safaris operate in two shifts every day. The morning shift starts at 6:30 AM and ends at 9 AM. The Afternoon Shift then begins at 2:30 PM and goes on till 4 PM. The afternoon shift is ideal for catching the golden-hour ridge views.

Hire A Registered 4x4 Open Gypsy

In order to enter certain designated forest trails such as the Thandi Beri or Joba Wolf Reserve, you must hire a registered forest department-permitted 4x4 open-top Gypsies.

Budget For Safari Costs

If you’re looking to hire a private six-seater Gypsy Safari, it will cost you around INR 3,500 to INR 5,500 per vehicle. This charge includes the park entry permits, vehicle fee, and the mandatory forest guide charges.

Dress In Warm Winter Layers

It is important to dress as per the weather. During Winter, mornings in the open forest can see temperatures dropping to 6°C to 10°C. Make sure you wear thermal layers, windproof jackets, and caps for the early morning drive. 

The Perfect Weekend Itinerary: Two Days And One Night

Kumbhalgarh is situated just 85 kilometers from Udaipur. It takes approximately two or 2.5 hours by road to reach this destination. This makes it the perfect weekend destination from the City of Lakes. Here is a convenient itinerary that will help you navigate this weekend trip.

Day 1: Fort Exploration, Wall Hike And Light Show

11 AM: Arrive at Kumbhalgarh from Udaipur or Jodhpur. Check into a valley resort of your choosing.

1 PM: After freshening up, head out for lunch at a local restaurant. Savor authentic Rajasthani dishes such as Dal Baati Churma and Ker Sangri.

2:30 PM to 6 PM: Explore the entire Kumbhalgarh Fort by first walking through the massive gateways such as Aret Pol, Hulla Pol, and Ram Pol. Then, tour the Badal Palace, which is also known as the palace of clouds, and is perched at the highest point of the fort. After taking in the sweeping views of the Aravalli Hills, visit the ancient Neelkanth Mahadev Temple and Vedi Temple complex inside the fort. Then, hike two km along the ramparts of the walls for some more stunning sunset views.

6:45 PM: Under the starlit winter sky, watch the evening light and sound show.

Day 2: Morning Jungle Safari And Ranakpur Excursion

6:30 AM to 9:30 AM: Book a 4x4 Gypsy at the sanctuary gate and head out for a morning wildlife drive. 

11 AM: Head to the Ranakpur Temple for a tour

3 PM: Begin your return journey.

Also Read: 8 Romantic Places To Visit In Udaipur In Winter For Couples

Summing Up

Kumbhalgarh during winter is an unforgettable destination. It offers something for everyone, especially if you have a penchant for historic destinations.