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Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, situated in the lush green environs of
Aravali ranges is a major attraction for the tourists coming to Udaipur.
Located at a distance of 64 kms from Udaipur in Kelwada tehsil of district
Rajsamand of Rajasthan State, the sanctuary is well known for its archaeological
value. Surrounds the Kumbhalgarh fortress, the sanctuary is named after
this impressive historic fort of Kumbhalgarh that overlooks the park.
Spread across an area of 608.57sq km, Kumbhalgarh Sanctuary
is famous for its many endangered species of wild-life. It's natural beauty
is attracting many tourists. A number of Garasia and Bhils tribals can
be seen here, living in their traditional huts.
The sanctuary mainly consists several herbs. Dhok, Salar,
Khair, Churel are other flora species found in the park. The sanctuary
is a home to many diverse array of wild life species. Leopards, sloth
bear, Hyena, Jackal, Jungle cat, Smabhar, Nilgai, Chaisingh (the four
horned antelope), Chinkara and Hare could be seen here.
The park boasts of spectacular bird diversity. The most
common bird found in the sanctuary are the peacocks and doves. Birds like
grey jungle fowl, red spur owls, Parakeets, golden Oriole, grey Pigeons,
Bulbul, and white breasted kingfisher can also be seen here. Some tour
operators organizes safari tours through the sanctuary. The safari route
enters the sanctuary from the Kumbhalgarh Fort and cutting across the
sanctuary it reaches Ghanerao, and then borders an old abandoned road.
One can spot Chinkaras, Neelgais, four horned Antelope and many birds
on this road. Guides are available at Udaipur R.T.D.C.
Entrance Fees : For Indians Rs. 10/-, Foreign Citizen
Rs. 80/-, Indian Students Rs. 2/-
Vehicle Fees (Bus Rs.100/-; Gypsy/Car/Jeep/Mini Bus Rs.65/-; Motorised
two Wheeler: Rs.10/-.
The other famous attractions inside the sanctuary are;
Kumbhalgarh Fort and Ranakpur Jain Temples. Located 64 km from Udaipur,
the fort was built in 1458 by Maharana Kumbha. The second most important
fort in Rajasthan, it is situated at a height of 1100m. The walls of the
fort stretch around 36 km. Within the bastions of the fort are many palaces
and temples which are of great antiquity and interest. The important among
them is Badal Mahal or Cloud Palace at the top. It offers scenic beauty
of the countryside around the fort.
The famous Ranakpur Jain temples are
also situated in its precincts. This temple complex is one of the
largest and most important Jain temples in India. The main temple 'Chaumukha'
build in 1439 in marble has 29 halls supported by 1444 pillars. This temple
is dedicated to Adinath. There are two other Jain temples and a Sun temple
nearby. Open - 1200 to 1700 hrs.
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Wildlife 
