Menal Waterfalls & Temple
About Menal: Menal is a hidden treasure located on the Chittorgarh-Bundi road. It is a stunning combination of a deep gorge, a 150-foot waterfall, and a complex of 11th-century temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The name is derived from "Maha Nala," meaning "Great Gorge." The site was once the summer retreat of the famous king Prithviraj Chauhan, who built a palace on the banks of the river. The temples were commissioned by King Someshvar of the Chahamana dynasty. During the monsoon, the Menali River plunges into a rocky canyon, creating a mist that blankets the ancient stone structures. The site feels like a scene from an adventure movie, with jungle-clad ruins and the roar of falling water. It is significantly less crowded than the main fort, offering a peaceful escape into nature and history. Natural Beauty: The waterfall is at its peak from July to October. The surrounding forest is home to various bird species and occasional wildlife like sloth bears. The contrast between the grey sandstone temples and the lush green vegetation is a sight to behold. It is a place where man-made architectural brilliance meets the raw power of nature.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
3 to 4 HoursPlace Type:
Nature, Waterfall & Ancient HeritageTiming:
Regular Timings: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily.
Ideal Visit Time: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM during the monsoon to see the rainbows in the waterfall mist. ...Regular Timings: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily.
Ideal Visit Time: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM during the monsoon to see the rainbows in the waterfall mist.Special Events:
Maha Shivratri: Celebrated in February/March with thousands of devotees visiting the Shiva temple.
Monsoon Festival: Local villagers celebrate the first flow of the waterfall with traditional songs. ...Maha Shivratri: Celebrated in February/March with thousands of devotees visiting the Shiva temple.
Monsoon Festival: Local villagers celebrate the first flow of the waterfall with traditional songs.Best Photo Spots:
The Gorge Edge: Best for a vertical shot of the waterfall and the temple in one frame.
Temple Facade: Use the morning light to highlight the depth of the stone carvings. ...The Gorge Edge: Best for a vertical shot of the waterfall and the temple in one frame.
Temple Facade: Use the morning light to highlight the depth of the stone carvings.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Waterfall Trekking: Walk along the edge of the gorge to get different perspectives of the falling water.
Temple Exploration: Spend time studying the carvings on the Mahanaleshwara Temple.
Bird Watching: Bring binoculars to spot kingfishers and peacocks in the surrounding trees.
Photography: The view from the "Selfie Point" across the gorge is iconic.
Relaxing by the River: Sit by the upper stream before it hits the falls to enjoy the cool water.
Visit the Resort: Have lunch at the nearby Menal Resort which offers a panoramic view of the valley.
Nature Walk: Explore the forest paths leading to the smaller, ruined shrines. ...
Information
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Why Famous:
Mini Khajuraho: It is world-renowned for its intricate and sensuous stone carvings that mirror the style of the temples in Madhya Pradesh.
The Great Gorge: The spectacular 150-foot natural drop of the waterfall is a rare sight in the arid la...Mini Khajuraho: It is world-renowned for its intricate and sensuous stone carvings that mirror the style of the temples in Madhya Pradesh.
The Great Gorge: The spectacular 150-foot natural drop of the waterfall is a rare sight in the arid landscape of Rajasthan. -
Architecture:
Architecture Style: The temples are built in the Bhumija style, featuring a square plan and a pyramidal spire.
Dimensions: The waterfall has a drop of 150 feet. The main Mahanaleshwara Temple sits on a platform of approximately 60x40 feet. ...Architecture Style: The temples are built in the Bhumija style, featuring a square plan and a pyramidal spire.
Dimensions: The waterfall has a drop of 150 feet. The main Mahanaleshwara Temple sits on a platform of approximately 60x40 feet.
Decorative Elements: The temple walls are famous for their "erotic" and "divine" carvings, similar to Khajuraho, depicting various moods of Shiva and Parvati. The carvings are incredibly dense, covering every inch of the exterior walls with figures of musicians, animals, and gods. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Udaipur Airport is 160 KMS away.
By Train: Reach Chittaurgarh or Bundi stations and take a taxi.
By Road: Located exactly on NH27, easily accessible by private car or state buses plying between Chitt... -
Near Tourist Places:
Bundi City (72 KM), Bijolia Temples (15 KM), Jogni Mata Waterfall (20 KM), Chittorgarh Fort (90 KM), Rawatbhata (60 KM), Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary (65 KM), Mandalgarh Fort (45 KM), Ladpura (10 KM), Singoli (30 KM), Kota (100 KM).
Tourism Tips
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Health and Safety: There are no barricades at the edge of the gorge; be extremely careful while taking photos.
Packing: Carry extra clothes if you plan to get near the water; wear non-slip shoes.
Cash: No ...
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Menal Waterfalls & Temple Tourism:-
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