Excursions
Eklingji
(22 km)
Built in 734 A.D. is the beautifully sculpted temple complex with 108 temples
within its high walls. The temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva, the presiding
deity of Mewar rulers. The walled complex encloses and elaborately pillared
hall or ‘mandap’ under a large pyramidal roof and has four-faced
image of Lord Shiva in black marble.
Ranakpur (90 km)
The beautifully sculptured Jain temples lie in a tranquil valley of the Aravallis.
The main ‘Chaumukha Temple’ is dedicated to the tirthankara Adinath
and has 29 halls supported by 1444 pillars, all distinctly carved. Two jain
temples dedicated to Neminath and Parsvanath and a Sun Temple a little distance
away ,are also noteworthy.
Nagda (23 km)
The ancient site dating back to the 6th century A.D. is renowned for the Sas-Bahu
temples (9t - 10th century A.D.) with interesting architecture and carvings.
The splendid Jain temples of Adbudji are also worth a visit. Haldighati (40
km): A historical site, witness to the great battle fought between Maharana
Pratap and Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1576 A.D. The Chhatri of Maharana’s
horse-Chetak is noteworthy.
Nathdwara (48 km)
The most reverred 17th century shrine, dedicated Shrinathji or Lord Krishna,attracts
thousands of Pilgrims from all over the country,especially during Diwali,
Holi and Janmashtami when their number exceeds a lak. Foreign tourists are
not permitted inside and photographs is prohibited.
Kankroli (65 km)
An important vaishnava temple popularly called Dwarikadish. It is the most
important temple of the Vallabhacharya sect,built to resemble the famous Nathdwara
shrine.
Rajsamand Lake (66 km)
Close to Kankroli is the dam built by Maharana Raj Singh in 1660 A.D.
Many ornamental arches and chhatris adorn the embankment.
Kumbhalgarh Fort ( 84 km)
The second principal fortress in Rajasthan after Chittaurgarh, it is
perched atop the Aravallis.Built in the 15th century by Maharana Kumbha, it
extends over 12 km and enclose many temples,palaces and gardens.The fort renovated
in the 19th century. The Badal Mahal or Cloud Palace offers a spectacular
bird’s eye view of the surrounding countryside. Closeby is the Kumbhalgarh
Wildlife Sanctuary with a rich variety of wildlife. The Fort is accessible
only by jeep from Kelwara through the seven gates.
Jagat (58 km)
The splendid and well preserved 10th century temple of Ambika Mata is
known for its intricate carvings in the outer walls. Popularly known as the
Khajuraho of Rajasthan.
Jaisamand Lake (48 km)
A stunningly situated artificial lake, built in the 17th century A.D. by Maharana
Jai Singh is the second largest in Asia. Graceful marble chhatris flank the
embankment and beautiful summer palaces of the Udaipur queens are built on
either side of the lake. Jaisamand Island Resort is also worth visiting. A
trip to Jaisamand Wildlife Sanctuary allows a close encounter with the rich
wildlife in their natural habitat. The fauna includes panther,wild boar,deer,four
honed antelope, mongoose and various species of migratory birds.
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