Ranakpur
Scenically situated in a verdant valley of the Aravalli Range is the sublime Ranakpur temple complex. Located about 56 miles (90 kilometers) north of Udaipur, this is one of India's most brilliant displays of temple architecture, and it's an important Jain pilgrimage site.
How to Get There
There are a few daily buses to Ranakpur from Udaipur as well as services from Mount Abu and Jodhpur. To see both Khumbalgarh and Ranakpur, it's best to hire a private taxi.
How to Get Around
You walk around the temple complex. Jeep taxis can be hired for longer trips.
Attractions
The Ranakpur temple complex is comprised of several temples. The main temple is the marble Chaumukha Mandir, constructed in 1439, which has 29 halls and a staggering 1,444 pillars (all carved a little differently from each other). The intricate carvings of this temple are truly phenomenal. The Ranakpur complex also contains the Neminath and Parasnath Jain temples.
If you're traveling to Ranakpur from Udaipur and have your own vehicle, consider pausing in peaceful, remote Khumbalgarh. If possible spend a night or two here so you can arrange a permit to visit the wildlife sanctuary (inhabited by leopards, wolves, antelopes, and sloth bears) and explore the enormous 15th-century Khumbalgarh Fort at an enjoyable pace.
Places to Stay and Eat
There are some delightful accommodation options in Ranakpur and Khumbalgarh, and these are also the best places to eat.
The most beautiful place to stay in Ranakpur is the Maharani Bagh Orchard Retreat, which has upmarket modern cottages scattered in a shady mango grove. There's a good restaurant as well as a swimming pool. Ranakpur; tel. +91 (0)2934 285105.
In Khumbalgarh, the charming Aodhi Hotel, which is cut into a hillside, has lovely rooms with a funky wilderness lodge ambience (tiger skin-print bedspreads and the like). The tranquillity at this hotel is one of its highlights. Meals are available, and there's a nice swimming pool. Khumbalgarh; tel. +91 (0)2954 242341.
For More Information
Tourist Reception Center, Udaipur Fateh Memorial Building, near Surajpol Gate, Udaipur; tel. +91 (0)294 241 1535.
Rajasthan Tourism
