The fantastic temple complex of Menal is a travelers delight, for this site is situated right by a deep gorge over which is a beautiful monsoon waterfall. The complex has several shrines withing the vicinity of a Bhumija styled temple built in the 11th century by Someshvar Chahamana and his queen Suhavadevi of the Shakambhari Dynasty (the Chauhans, whose last great ruler was the fabled Prithiviraj Chauhan). Prithiviraj Chauhan is said to have built a fort palace beside the waterfall by the complex, which can still be seen, however the palace part of the fort exists as a dilapidated ruin attributed to one Ruthi Rani. The main temple of Menal is dedicated to Shiva and so are the smaller shrines beside it. The name of the place Menal is derived form the word Maha Nal, meaning the great gorge. Menal is about 90 Kms from Chittorgarh in Rajasthan.
Info from the WIKIPEDIA: The Menal temple complex consists of a group of Siva temple on both sides of the waterfall. The name Menal is derived from Maha Nal (great gorge). This temple complex was built by Someshvar Chahamana and his queen Suhavadevi of the Shakambhari dynasty during the 11th century A.D. The construction of the main structural group, on the left side of the gorge, is credited to the king while the single temple with a detached monastery across the river is associated with the queen, albeit the foundation inscription has been lost now. However, the fame of place grew during reign of King Prithviraj Chauhan, as it was his favourite mountain retreat during the scorching Rajasthan summers.
