Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary

The Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary covers 578 sq km (223 sq miles) of the Aravalli Hills, west of the fort, on the leeward side. Panther, flying squirrel, wolf and many bird species can be seen here. The Kumbhalgarh Sanctuary will come as a surprise to those who see Rajasthan only as a desert state. These green tracts form the dividing line between the former states of Mewar and Marwar. Once the hunting grounds of royals, this area was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1971. The diverse topography of the sanctuary adds to its charms. In its eastern part are ranges that loom over 3,478 ft, as well as the source of the River Banas. The Marwar plains are to the north-west of the sanctuary. The rainwater on the western slopes flows as small rivers such as Sukdi, Mithdi, Sumer and Kot, all of which are the tributaries of River Luni that ultimately merges into the Arabian Sea. The sanctuary is known to be home to chausinghas (four-horned antelopes), leopards, panthers and sloth bears.

When to visit
Open through the year. December to March is a good time to spot animals.

Activities
Kumbhalgarh has many options for tourists – apart from jeep safaris; you can also go trekking here. There are points of historic interests in the sanctuary too.

Accommodation
Tourists to Kumbhalgarh have the option of staying either within the sanctuary or outside. As people visit Kumbhalgarh for both the sanctuary and the fort, peak season is usually very busy – so do book in advance.

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