Menal Waterfall & Temples

Natural site and temples, 72 km from Bundi

could-see attraction

Opening hours: dawn-dusk

Address: Menal, Rajasthan

Ticket price: Free

Visit duration: People typically spend up to 45 min here

About Menal Waterfall & Temples

Located around 72 kilometres from Bundi, Menal is a small village where tourists come to visit ancient temples and a scenic waterfall. The temples date back to the Gupta period and are believed to have been built between 4th to 6th century AD.

Menal gets its name from two words “Maha” and “Nala” which means a great and deep gorge.

Menal Waterfall

Menal Waterfall is a crowd puller in the quiet hamlet of Rajasthan. This natural waterfall is 150 feet in height and is sparkling white to look at. In the monsoon season, you can watch this fall gush out gallons of water in all its glory. The Menal waterfall flows down to meet a river with the same name that you can cross on foot during summer when the water is less.

History of Menal Temples

Rajasthan is home to many awe-inspiring temples and the ones housed in Menal are no exception.

The temples on either side of the Menal waterfall are dedicated to the Hindu God, Lord Shiva. The complex was built by a mighty king belonging to the Chahamana dynasty, Someshvara and his queen. It is said that the temples that comprise the main structure of the complex was built by the king. The queen had built the single temple that has a detached monastery across the Menal river. Since the foundation inscription of this complex is lost, it isn’t certain who had built which structure.

During the rule of the Chauhans in Rajasthan, Prithviraj Chauhan, a famous ruler of his dynasty, loved the site so much that built a palace called Rusirani Palace on the banks of the river. As it was built on slabs of granite, in monsoons it offers an amazing view of the water gushing down the rocks and plunging 150 feet down into the pool.

Architecture of the Menal Temples

As soon as you enter the main gate of the temple complex, lush gardens invite you in. The gardens are beautifully maintained and offer a great sight for visitors. The temple entrance that leads you inside the complex has two floors adorned with several pillars and spirals.

The deep gorge of the waterfall divides the complex into two parts. Mahabaleshwara Temple which is the main Shiva temple in the complex is built in Bhumija style of architecture. In this, a square plan is rotated around the centre stopped at regular intervals as the structure rises up.

The temple has projectile balconies that showcase the Rajasthani style of architecture. The stone carvings on each of the temples gives this complex a uniformly beautiful appearance.

The smaller temples that surround this main one are almost in ruins. There is a unique structure of a high raised platform with three pillars near the main temple. Against the azure sky, this place looks as if it was built for those who love to click photographs.

After visiting Mahabaleshwar temple, exit through the doorway at the back of the smaller temples. As soon as you walk a little further, a breathtaking view awaits you! The giant waterfall plunging into a deep gorge surrounded by lush greenery is a spectacular sight.

Entry fee and timings

Entry to the Menal temple complex is free for all visitors. It is open from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm.

Facts and tips about Menal Waterfall & Temples

• The temples have stone carvings of Lord Shiva and Parvati in many postures and thus this temple is also known as “Mini Khajuraho”.


• Since there are no barricades near the waterfall to ensure a safe walk up and down the ridge, be careful with every step. If you can walk up the ridge safely, it offers an amazing view of the entire complex.


• There are many monkeys outside the temple. Be cautious of your belongings since they can try to snatch it. Don’t tease them and they won’t create any problems.

Other attractions near Menal Waterfall & Temples

• Bundi - 72 km
• Chittorgarh Fort - 87 km

FAQs about Menal Waterfall & Temples

1. Can you click images inside the Menal Temples?

Yes, you can click images inside the temple complex. In fact, the whole site offers a great opportunity to photograph and click amazing shots. So, don’t forget to carry your camera while visiting Menal.

2. Which is the best time to visit Menal?

Post monsoon is the best time to visit the Menal Waterfall and Temples since the streams are filled with water and the surrounding looks clean and green.

3. Is Menal a must visit place in Rajasthan?

It is a “could-see” attraction but if you are a nature-lover and prefer to explore offbeat tourist spots, then you must visit Menal and witness the unique symphony of nature’s wonder and ancient man-made excellence.