CHITTORGARH

Chittorgarh is a city and municipality in Rajasthan, northwest India. It’s known for the honey-colored, 7th-century Chittorgarh Fort, a vast hilltop complex with the remains of many temples and monuments. The 15th-century, 9-story Vijay Stambh (Tower of Victory) is built from red sandstone and white marble. It offers city views from the top, and it is lit up at night. Nearby is the Rajput-style Fateh Prakash Palace.
Area: 350.8 km²
Elevation: 395 m
Weather: 27 °C, Wind SW at 6 km/h, 90% Humidity
Population: 1.16 lakhs (2011)

Famous Monuments/places

1. Chittorgarh Fort
Built by local Maurya rulers (often confused with imperial Maurya Rulers) in 7th century A.D, the Chittorgarh Fort in Rajasthan is one of the largest forts in India. The Chittorgarh Fort, plainly known as Chittor is spread majestically over a hill of 590 feet in height and is spread across 692 acres of land is a fine example of the popular Rajput architecture. The imposing structure of the fort has many gateways built by the later rulers of the Maurya clan. Chittorgarh Fort was previously the capital of Mewar and is now situated in the city of Chittorgarh. Chittorgarh Fort reverberates with tales of heroism and sacrifice and displays the Rajput culture and values in the real sense. Owing to its magnificent edifice, the Chittorgarh Fort was declared a UNESCO's World Heritage Site in the year 2013.

There is a long road of 1 km that leads to the Chittorgarh Fort and is quite steep. It is often considered to be the pride of the state as there are many historical sacrifices related to it. Chittorgarh Fort is also called the Water Fort as it had 84 water bodies once, but now there are only 22 of them left. The two major attractions of the fort are the towers Vijay Stambh and Kirti Stambh. Vijay Stambh refers to the tower of victory and the Kirti Stambh means tower of fame. The towers are illuminated in the evening and it looks even more beautiful. Apart from the towers, there are many palaces and temples within the premises of the fort, most notable being Meera Temple.

2. Padmini 

Padmini Palace is the palace where Rani Padmini lived after she married Rawal Ratan Singh, the ruler of Mewar Kingdom who ruled between 1302 and 1303 CE. The majestic palace is a historical monument related to the self-sacrifice of Rani Padmini after Chittorgarh was attacked by the Sultan of Delhi, Alauddin Khilji. The two storey monument stands rather strong right at the centre of the Chittorgarh Fort elevated on rocky terrain. The fort is surrounded by a lotus pool which adds to the charm of the monument. One can imagine how glorious this site would have been when the royal ladies used it, the pool having colourful lotuses depicting grace and beauty in the rugged Chittor Fort. Those exploring Chittorgarh Fort must visit the Padmini Palace.

Tourists from all over the world visit Chittorgarh to explore the grand historic monument and hear stories of adventure and sacrifice of the Rajputs of the Mewar Kingdom. The Padmini Palace is where the Rajput women sacrificed their lives when the palace was attached by Alauddin Khilji. It marks their loyalty and strength to fight or die instead of facing dishonour. When compared to other palaces on the premises, the Padmini Palace is smaller but is considered to be an attractive and a captivating one because of Rani Padmini's beauty, intelligence and charm and the tragic story associated with her end. The rich history of the palace is even more fascinating when one explores the monument themselves. 

3. Kalika Mata Temple

It is one of the most important temples of Chittorgarh and the city's tour isn't complete without a visit to this temple. The splendid sculpture of the temple is what attracts most tourists.

It is dedicated to Kalika an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The entire temple, built on a platform, boasts of Prathira architectural style. The ceiling, pillars and gates all have intricate designs. Even though the temple is partially in ruins, one will still marvel at its architectural credibility.

4. Gaumukh 

Located within Chittorgarh fort, the Gomukh Kund is also known as "Tirth Raj'' of Chittorgarh because whenever pilgrims and devotees go on the tour of different Hindu spiritual places, then they come to Gomukh kund for completion of their holy journey after returning back.

Gau Mukh literally means mouth of cow and it has been named so because the water flows from the cow mouth shaped point. Natural environment with lush green plants and flowing water is what makes this place even more attractive.

5. Maha sati

About 110 km away from Chittorgarh, this is the sacred place where Udaipur Rulers used to be cremated.

This beautiful structure, glistening in the sun attracts tourists also because of a water reservoir which it believed to have the waters of Ganges emerging from it. The Ahar Cenotaphs have 19 chhatris to commemorate the 19 Kings who were cremated here. In all, there are more than 250 cenotaphs here.

6. Sita Mata wildlife 

Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary is a dense forest area with thick deciduous plantations that include trees like Gulmohar, Sindoor, Rudraksha, Bamboo, Bel, etc. It is best explored during the day in the winter season as the weather stays pleasant and one can spot many migrating birds and local species of animals.