There is no better way to experience a destination than road-tripping through its past, especially one as old as Mewar, said to have been founded in the 8th century by Bappa Rawal. A lineage that not only enriched the state’s history with one of its most celebrated legends – Maharana Pratap Singh – but also left behind a wealth of architectural wonders. Many of which we find invitingly speckling southern Rajasthan, and well-connected to Udaipur by a network of roads that are a pleasure to drive on.
Chittorgarh: This long-standing capital of Mewar, from the 8th to the 16th century, takes its name from the imposing fort that lies strewn across hundreds of acres atop a 180 metres high plateau. This fort is home to several magnificent palaces, temples, and towers, including the intricately sculpted Vijay Stambha, built by Rana Kumbha in the 15th century to celebrate his victory over the rulers of Gujarat and Malwa.
Kumbhalgarh: Commissioned in 1458, this is the finest example of fortifications in Rajasthan and has been recognized as such by UNESCO. This remarkable fort, perched high in the densely forested Aravali ranges of Rajsamand district, is also renowned as the place where Maharana Pratap was born in 1540. It is engirdled by a 36 kilometres long impregnable wall and a wonderful view.
Udaipur: Built on the banks of Lake Pichola as the new capital of Mewar, this 16th century city dotted with lakes and hemmed in by lush Aravali hills, borrows its name from its founder Udai Singh II, father of Maharana Pratap. It is best known for the splendour of its many marble palaces built by successive rulers, some of which rest on islands in the lakes, and are heritage hotels today.
Gogunda: With the Mughals attacking Mewar yet again in 1567, Udai Singh II temporarily moved his capital to the densely forested Gogunda fort, not far from Udaipur. And where, on his passing in 1572, Maharana Pratap was anointed the ruler of Mewar. The site of his coronation is a short drive from the fort and hosts a step-well next to an old stone temple.
Haldi Ghati: The pass that famously lends its name to the Battle of Haldi Ghati, fought between Maharana Pratap and Mughal forces in 1576, is located roughly midway from Udaipur to Kumbhalgarh. An imposing statue of the Maharana marks the battlefield at Balicha, while another memorial in close proximity commemorates Chetak, his much-loved steed.
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Connectivity: Udaipur is the closest airport, as well as the major rail and road head
Best Season: October-March