Southern Rajasthan

Encompassing an incomparable history of heroic bravery represented by Rajput men, women and children of Chittorgarh is the identity of southern Rajasthan. The area including Udaipur and Chittorgarh constituted the kingdom of Mewar and Chittorgarh was its capital. The rulers of this region were from the Sisodia clan of Rajputs, who were considered to be descendants of the Sun.

Chittorgarh saw three dreaded invasions on its territory and each time the more supreme army was bravely fought back by the people of Chittorgarh, who preferred death over dishonor. The third invasion led Maharaja Udai Singh II to move to Udaipur, a geographically less vulnerable territory, where he based his new capital. Though Mewar is one of the oldest kingdoms of Rajasthan, other areas like Bundi, Kota and Jhalawar were found much later.

Preserving the history and heritage of Rajasthan, the areas of southern Rajasthan are also more diverse than any of its counterparts. If you have no idea as to what you aim to see in Rajasthan, you can land up here. From the only hill station of the state, Mt Abu, the 11th century Dilwara temples and the topmost peak of the state, Guru Shikhar to the largest palace of Rajasthan, City Palace and Asia's biggest artificial lake Jaisamand, you will get to see them all here.

The main highlights of this part of Rajasthan are the cities of Udaipur and Chittorgarh. The royal charm of Rajasthan is still intact and well represented by the cream colored palaces and temples of Udaipur. The view of the City Palace seems to be like a floating marble lotus on the Pichola Lake, that mirrors the beauty of the whole city.

Abu Road   Around Jhalwar   Around Kota   Around Mt Abu   Bundi   Bundi To Chittorgarh   Chittorgarh

Jhalwar   Kota   Mt Abu   North of Udaipur   South of Udaipur   Udaipur

The two signature forts of Rajasthan showcasing the might and chivalry of the Rajputs are situated here. These are Chittorgarh and Kumbalgarh Forts that take you back to the days of deadly battles, sacrifices and lavish lifestyles of the royals. The architectural splendor of the forts is very well evident from their huge ramparts, strong gateways, wide walls and strategically planned buildings that enhance its impregnable character.

Here you can indulge in activities like trekking and horse riding amid pleasant weather and the scenic landscapes of Mount Abu. You can also go for a wildlife safari in the Mt Abu Wildlife Sanctuary. Witness the hints of tradition and culture of Bhil and the Hadoti tribes in Bundi and explore the hidden world of Jhalawar, unearthing the lost elements of history from the fort and museums of Jhalawar.

You can also enjoy the vibrant colors of festivals that mark the calender of southern Rajasthan areas including the famous Baneshwar Fair, which is a festival of the Bhil tribes, celebrated mainly in the Dungarpur district in the month of January/ February, Mewar Festival celebrated in March/ April, Bundi Festival in October/ November and Chandrabhaga Festival celebrated near the holy river Chandrabhaga in Jhalrapatan in the months of November/ December.

Apart from these, other festivals that are celebrated all over Rajasthan, like Kajli Teej, Gangaur Festival and Summer Festival are also celebrated with full life in this part of the state.