Mewar, a region steeped in history in Rajasthan, is a repository of tales of Maharana Pratap’s Time, an era characterized by valour and opposition to Mughal dominance. Maharana Pratap, who reigned from 1572 to 1597, left behind a lasting legacy in the form of his intense battles, such as the Battle of Haldighati in 1576, and his unrelenting spirit. Although well-known places like Chittorgarh Fort are famous, there are several Mewar historical places from Maharana Pratap’s time that are still undiscovered gems of Rajasthan. These unexplored areas present the epitome of the Maharana Pratap legacy, revealing his life, battles, and the cultural diversity of Mewar. Let’s discover these undiscovered gems of Maharana Pratap’s Era that every history enthusiast must explore to find the untold stories of this legendary king.
Why Visit Uncommon Sites of Maharana Pratap’s Time?
Maharana Pratap’s Time is renowned for its stories of bravery, particularly his refusal to yield to Mughal Emperor Akbar. Aside from the popular forts, there are Mewar heritage sites that were important during this time but remain unknown. Venturing into these offbeat gems Rajasthan enables tourists to experience the Maharana Pratap heritage in a more profound manner. From their temporary capitals to holy sites, these sites provide a quieter and more personal glimpse into the life and times of Maharana Pratap’s Era, ideal for those who want genuine history free from the madding crowd.
1.Chavand – The Last Capital of Maharana Pratap’s Era
Chavand, 62 km from Udaipur, was the last capital of Mewar during Maharana Pratap’s Era. Following the Battle of Haldighati, Maharana Pratap took over this region in 1585 and established it as his headquarters. Ringed by the Aravalli hills, this Mewar historical monument is a secret treasure Rajasthan with remains of Pratap’s palace and peaceful ambiance. It’s also the place where he died in 1597 from injuries sustained in a hunting mishap, leaving behind a legacy of defiance. Chavand provides a serene getaway for history enthusiasts seeking to delve into the Era of Maharana Pratap.
2.Gogunda – Temporary Capital and Battlefield
Gogunda, 39 km north west of Udaipur, was a temporary capital in the Era of Maharana Pratap. It is here that Pratap was crowned in 1572 following the death of his father, Maharana Udai Singh II. Gogunda was fought over in the Mewar-Mughal conflict, falling to the Mughals in 1576, only to be regained by Pratap. A chhatri in commemoration of the cremation spot of Udai Singh II makes it an important site in Mewar history. This lesser-known gem of Rajasthan provides an insight into the importance of Maharana Pratap’s Era as a strategic location.
3.Kumbhalgarh Fort – A Strategic Base
Kumbhalgarh Fort in Rajsamand was an important stronghold in Maharana Pratap’s Era. Pratap established it as his second capital and made it the center of his guerrilla war against the Mughals. The fort, which was nestled among the Aravalli hills, was a secure place where Pratap mobilized his resistance. Although the Mughals briefly took control of it, Pratap regained it following the Battle of Dewair in 1582. A visit to this Mewar heritage site allows you to stroll through the Maharana Pratap heritage, with its gigantic walls and breathtaking views rendering it a secret gem Rajasthan.
4.Eklingji Temple – A Spiritual Sanctuary
The Eklingji Temple, 22 km north of Udaipur, was a religious center in Maharana Pratap’s Time. This temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, has been the revered abode of Mewar kings as their godfather. Maharana Pratap frequently prayed here in his battles with the Mughals. The complex design and peaceful environment of the temple make it a hidden treasure Rajasthan, providing a tranquil link to the religious aspect of Maharana Pratap’s Time and the Maharana Pratap heritage.
5.Ahar – An Ancient Historical Site
Ahar, close to Udaipur, is of the Guhila dynasty but remained important during Maharana Pratap’s time. It was a prosperous trading center and has ancient cenotaphs and an archaeological museum. Inscriptions of this era, such as the Aatpur inscription of Vikram Samvat 1034, document Mewar’s pride in history. Ahar is a historical monument of Mewar that showcases the cultural diversity of Maharana Pratap’s Time period and is thus an off-beat gem Rajasthan for history and archaeology enthusiasts.
6.Udai Sagar Lake – A Strategic Source of Water
Udai Sagar Lake, built by Maharana Udai Singh II between 1564 and 1569, was a strategic source of water in Maharana Pratap’s Time period. Situated 6 miles east of Udaipur, the lake provided water supply to the new capital, Udaipur, which was used by Pratap as his base later on. The historical importance and natural beauty of the lake render it a hidden treasure of Rajasthan, providing a peaceful place to contemplate the strategic planning of the Maharana Pratap Era as well as the legacy of Maharana Pratap.
Tips for Visiting Sites from Maharana Pratap’s Era
- Optimum Time to Visit: Visit these Mewar heritage sites between October and March for comfortable weather.
- Travel Tips: Bring walking shoes for a tour of forts such as Kumbhalgarh, and carry water for secluded offbeat Rajasthan sites like Chavand.
- Respect History: Don’t litter and respect the cultural importance of these sites that are associated with Maharana Pratap’s Times.
- Local Guides: Take a guide at locations such as Eklingji Temple to know more about the Maharana Pratap heritage.
Why These Off-The-Beaten-Path Gems of Maharana Pratap’s Era Are Important
These off-the-beaten-path Mewar historical attractions from Rajasthan during the Maharana Pratap’s Era provide an alternative means of experiencing the history and valor of one of India’s most renowned warriors. From the warlike forts of Kumbhalgarh to the religious sanctuary of Eklingji, each off-the-beaten-path Rajasthan gem relates a tale of courage and pride. Visiting these sites allows you to follow the steps of Maharana Pratap, relating with the Maharana Pratap heritage on a personal level. Organize your tour to Mewar and discover the untold Maharana Pratap’s Era stories that still stimulate generations!
