CHITTORGARH: THE EPITOME OF ROMANCE AND VALOUR, 2025

Chittorgarh, also known as Chittor, The pride and glory of Rajasthan, Chittaur echoes with the tales of romance and valour unique to the Rajput tradition. A ruined citadel, where the royal past lives in its imposing forts, graceful palaces and spectacular chhatris.

This fortified settlement has been ravaged thrice and each time the outcome was ‘Jauhar-when women and children immolated themselves on a huge funeral pyre while men donned in saffron robes of martyrdom rode out of the fort towards a certain death.

Alauddin Khilji was the first to sack Chittaur in 1303 A.D., overpowered by a passionate desire to possess the regal beauty, queen Padmini. Legend has it, that he saw her face in the reflection of a mirror and was struck by her mesmerising beauty. But the noble queen preferred death to dishonour and committed ‘Jauhar’.

In 1533 A.D., during the rule of Bikramjeet, came the second attack from Bahadur Shah, the Sultan of Gujarat. Once again Jauhar was led by Rani Karnavati, a Bundi princess. Her infant son, Udai Singh was smuggled out of Chittaur to Bundi who survived to inherit the throne of the citadel. He learnt from his traumatic childhood that discretion is preferred to valour.

So, in 1567 A.D., when the Mughal Emperor invaded Chittaur, Udai Singh fled to establish a new Capital, Udaipur – a beautiful lake city, leaving behind Chittaur to be defended by two 16 year old heroes, Jaimal of Bednore and Patta of Kelwa. These young men displayed true Rajput chivalry and died after ‘Jauhar’ was performed. Immediately thereafter Akbar razed the fort to a rubble.

Chittaur was never inhabited again but it always asserted the heroic spirit of Rajput warriors.

PRIME SITES OF CHITTOGARH

The Fort of Chittorgarh:

The indomitable pride of Chittaur, the fort is a massive structure with many gateways built by the later Maurya rulers in 7th century A.D. Perched on a height of 180 m high hill, it sprawls over 700 acres. The tablets and chhatris within are impressive reminders of the Rajput heroism.

The main gates are Padal Pol, Bhairon Pol, Hanuman Pol and Ram Pol. The fort has many magnificent monuments all fine examples of the Rajput architecture.

The ancient ruins of the fort are worth spending few moments in solitude.

Vijay Stambh (Victory Tower), Chittorgarh:

The imposing 37 metre high structure with nine storeys, covered with exquisite sculptures of Hindu deities and depicting episodes from the two great epics – Ramayana and Mahabharatha.

It was built in 1440 A.D. by Maharana Kumbha, a powerful ruler of Mewar, to commemorate his victory over the Muslim rulers of Malwa and Gujarat.

Kirti Stambh (Tower of Fame), Chittorgarh:

The 22 metres high tower built by a wealthy Jain merchant in the 12th century A.D. The tower is dedicated to Adinathji, the first of the Jain Tirthankaras and is decorated with figures of the Jain pantheon.

Rana Kumbha’s Palace,Chittorgarh:

The ruined edifice of great historical and architectural interest, being the most massive monument in the fort of Chittaur. The palace is believed to have underground cellars where Rani Padmini and other women committed Jauhar.

Padmini’s Palace, Chittorgarh:

Built beside a pool, the palace is a magnificent one. It was here that Rana Ratan Singh showed a glimpse of queen Padmini to Alauddin Khilji.

Rani Padmini stood in a ‘Zanana Mahal’ a pavilion in the centre and her reflection was visible to Alauddin Khilji in a mirror placed in the main hall. After having a glimpse of the legendary beauty, Alauddin went to the extent of ravaging Chittaur in order to possess her.

Kumbha Shyam Temple:

Built during the reign of Rana Kumbha in the Indo- Aryan style, the temple is associated with the mystic poetess Meerabai – an ardent Krishna devotee. She was the wife of Prince Bhojraj.

Kalika Mata Temple:

Originally built as a Sun Temple in the 8th century, the temple was later converted into Kalika Mata Temple in the 14th century A.D., dedicated to the mother Goddess Kali – the symbol of power and valour.

Government Museum Chittorgarh:

The magnificent Fateh Prakash Mahal, presently a fine Museum with an exquisite example of sculptures from temples and buildings in the fort is worth a visit. Entry fee Rs. 2.00. Closed on Fridays.

Jaimal and Patta Palaces:

The ruins of palaces of Rathore Jaimal and Sisodia Patta are witness to the gallantry of these great warriors.

Gardens and Parks:

Pratap Park, Meera Park and Nehru Park are beautifully laid out parks in lush surroundings. Beautiful Khwaja rose garden at Sawa is just 13 km from Chittaur.

Meerabai Temple:

The temple where Meerabai worshipped Lord Krishna is built in north Indian style on a raised plinth with a conical roof and beautiful inner sanctum. An open colonnade around the sanctum has four small pavilions in each corner.

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EXCURSIONS

Nagari (20 km):

One of the oldest towns of Rajasthan of great importance during the Mauryan period, is situated on the banks of River Bairach. The Hindu and Buddhist remains from the Mauryan and Gupta period are found here.

Bassi Village (25 km):

Enroute Bundi is a marvellous village with historical forts, temples and kunds. Especially famous are its sculptures and woodcraft. A place of great tourist interest.

Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary:

50 Sq. km sanctuary near Bassi, supports a population of panthers, wild boars. antelopes, mongoose and migratory birds.

Prior permission has to be obtained from the District Forest Officer, Chittorgarh before visiting the sanctuary.

Sanwariyaji Temple (40 km):

On the Chittaur-Udaipur road is a contemporary temple of Lord Krishna, an important pilgrimage spot.

Matri Kundia Temple (50 km):

A popular sacred place dedicated to Lord Shiva. Popularly called ‘Haridwar of Mewar’.

Bijaipur (40 km):

A marvellous castle built by Rao Shakti Singh, the younger brother of Maharana Pratap, stands in the village. Presently, it has been converted into a heritage hotel.

Sita Mata Sanctuary, Dhariyavad:

This thickly wooded jungle sprawls over the Aravalli ranges and the Malwa plateau with three rivers flowing through the forest. According to the legend, Sita, wife of Lord Rama stayed in this Jungle in Rishi Valmiki’s Ashram after she was exiled by Lord Rama.

The common fauna that can be sighted here includes leopard, hyena, jungle fox, porcupine, sambhar, wild boar, four horned antelope, nilgai and flying squirrel.

Deogarh (125 km):

A 16th century magnificent fort near Pratapgarh with some beautiful palaces ornate with murals and splendid Jain temples.

Menal (90 km):

On the Bundi-Chittaur road amid the natural beauty is Menal, famous for its ancient Shiva temples, picturesque water falls and dense forests.

Shopping:

The beautiful wooden toys made in Bassi village near Chittorgarh are the best buys. Besides these, there are thewa articles of Pratapgarh, printed fabric of Akola and leather mojri of Gangrar.

Favourite shopping spots include Sadar Bazaar, Rana Sanga Market, New Cloth Market, Fort Road Market, Gandhi Chowk and Station Circle.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Chittorgarh is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the city’s historic forts and monuments. The annual Jauhar Mela in February enhances the cultural experience, making winter the perfect season to immerse in Chittorgarh‘s rich history and heritage.

Accommodation – Where to stay:

For a visit to Chittorgarh, stay near the Chittorgarh Fort area for easy access to the historical site. Popular options include heritage hotels like Castle Bijaipur and Padmini Haveli, offering a blend of comfort and history. Budget travelers can opt for guesthouses or mid-range hotels in the city center, such as Hotel Pratap Palace or Hotel Amrit Manthan.

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Travel Information:

1. How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Maharana Pratap Airport (Udaipur), about 90 km away. From there, hire a cab or take a bus to Chittaurgarh.
• By Train: Chittorgarh is well-connected by rail, with regular trains from major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Udaipur.
• By Road: National Highway 27 makes Chittaurgarh easily accessible by car or bus from Jaipur, Udaipur, and Kota.

2. Local Transport:
Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and rented vehicles are available for exploring the town and nearby attractions.

FAQ’s