India Tourism » Travel to Ranakpur

The reason to earmark the Ranakpur hill area as a separate region is more than one. First, this region is wholly a mountainous and rugged one; most of the land is covered with forests. Second, the region has a overwhelming tribal population that makes the cultural character of the region quite distinct. The tribals here practise interesting rituals and primitive agriculture. Finally, despite the primitive environment here, the region is dotted with many tasteful hotels that prove to be quiet retreats. The region's ruggedness permits more adventurous tourist activities viz. horse safari, trekkings, etc.

Ranakpur, a quiet spot on the Jodhpur-Udaipur highway is the site of one of the largest and most important temples of Jain religion built in year 1439. The Chaumukha temple (the temple with faces to all four sides) made entirely of marble has 1444 exquisitely carved pillars - no two are alike. The extremely fine carvings are best seen on the inside drum of the ceilings where it is virtually a riot of different designs and idols.

Kumbhalgarh: This most important fort in Mewar after Chittaurgarh was constructed by Maharana Kumbha in the 15th century. The strategic fort is remarkable for its 36 kms long walls and more particularly for its elusive presence as it is not visible even from the distance of just 2 kilometers. The fort is situated in Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary; wolves, leopards, panthers and sloth bears are found here.

Ghanerao: The castle in this small town now converted into a heritage hotel is worth staying.

Deogarh: The castle of Deogarh, which is now a tasteful hotel, is the ideal base to explore the rural surroundings on horses or by road. The castle itself is extraordinary with several of its rooms having original décor of stained glasses, frescoes and balconies.

Molela: The small village is remarkable for its patronized art of terracotta. Creative displays of legends of mythology, popular stories, etc are painstakingly done by the artists here on long terracotta slabs.

Narlai: The place of another peaceful heritage hotel known as Rawla Narlai. Noteworthy feature around here is the settlement of Garasia tribes, their style of celebrations make interesting spectacle.