Chittorgarh is a city and a municipality in Rajasthan state of western India. It lies on the Berach River, a tributary of the Banas, and is the administrative headquarters of Chittorgarh District and a former capital of the Sisodia Rajput Dynasty of Mewar. The city of Chittaurgarh is located on the banks of river Gambhiri and Berach. Chittorgarh is home to the Chittor Fort, the largest fort in India and Asia. It was the site of three major sieges (1303, 1535, and 1567–1568) by Muslim invaders, and its Hindu rulers fought fiercely to maintain their independence. On more than one occasion, when faced with a certain defeat, the men fought to death while the women committed suicide by jauhar. Chittor also has been a land of worship for Meera.
History: Originally called Chitrakuta, the Chittor Fort is said to have been built by Chitranga, a king of the local Maurya dynasty. The Guhila (Gahlot) ruler Bappa Rawal is said to have captured the fort in either 728 CE or 734 CE. However, some historians doubt the historicity of this legend, arguing that the Guhilas did not control Chittor before the reign of the later ruler Allata. In 1303, the Delhi Sultanate ruler Alauddin Khalji defeated the Guhila king Ratnasimha, and captured the fort. The fort was later captured by Hammir Singh, a king of the Sisodia branch of the Guhilas. Chittor gained prominence during the period of his successors, which included Rana Kumbha and Rana Sanga. In 1535, Bahadur Shah of Gujarat besieged and conquered the fort. After he was driven away by the Mughal emperor Humayun, the Sisodias regained control of the fort. In 1567-68, the Mughal emperor Akbar besieged and captured the fort.
Tourist Attractions: One of the most important forts in Chittorgarh is Chittorgarh fort a World Heritage site boasting of seven gates, imposing monuments, towers, water bodies, majestic palaces and holy temples. The major attractions of Chittorgarh fort are Victory tower, Kirti Stambha and Meera Temple. All attractions are lined-up with exquisitely adorned interiors and exhibit Rajput styles. Other major attractions of Chittorgarh fort include- Padmini’s Palace, a white three storied building put up amidst the lotus pond. The magnificent place reminds us of the elegant beauty of Rani Padmini. Another important attraction is Rana Kumbha’s Palace; put up by Rana Kumbh it is one of the striking palaces in Chittorgarh.
Chittorgarh Fort: Listed as one of the UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites in Rajasthan, the Chittorgarh Fort also known as Chittor Fort is witness to the bravery of Men and Women of the Rajput dynasty. It is spread over an area of 280 Hectares, on a hill 180 meters high. It is said that the fort was built by the Mauryans in the 7th Century. This fort is a fine piece of the great ancient artwork which can surprise you with its first look here. The artwork on the pillars here is so beautiful and fine, it is said that it used to take around 10 years just to script the fine artwork on one pillar. Chittorgarh Fort is the largest fort in India. The fort has a long story of romance, courage, determination and sacrifice. A glimpse of the fort still makes one to think the glory of the Rajputs who once lived here. It is believed that the fort was initially built by the Mauryans in 7th Century as inscribed on the coins of that period. There are also many records which depict that the Mewar ruled the fort for about 834 years. Bappa Rawal established the fort in 724, after which the fort have seen a number of battles and rulers.
It was attacked about 3 times by famous rulers but with their bravery Rajput rulers saved the fort everytime. In 1303 the fort was attacked by the Allaudin Khilji who wanted to capture Rani Padmini , who was said to be amazingly beautiful. He wanted her to come with him and when she refused, Allaudin Khilji attacked the fort and defeated the ruler. Second time Bahadur Shah, the king of Gujarat sacked the fort. And Akbar, the Mughal Emperor attacked the fort in 1567, who wanted to capture Maharana Udai Singh. In 1616 Jahangir, a Mughal Emperor returned the fort to Maharana Amar Singh, who was the chief of Mewar at that time.
Fort Fateh Prakash Palace: Constructed by the Maharana Pratap Singh, the palace used to serve the purpose of erstwhile residence for him. Maharana Pratap Singh deliberately built the palace in Rajasthani style to reveal his quality taste for art and culture. The large number of corridors and pillars of the palace are salient features of Rajasthani architecture. It also has a large number of paintings inside. The palace also reveals other likes and dislikes of Maharana Pratap Singh. The presence of a large variety of crystal objects in the palace also reveals his likings for these objects. In fact, the collection was so vast that in 1968, it was realized that the collection is big enough to be exhibited in a museum. This idea was soon given shape as a large part of the palace was converted into a museum.
The various architectural features of the Fateh Prakash Palace will surely leave you mesmerized. On visiting the palace, you will be able to observe the paintings of the walls. In fact, walking through the corridors and watching the various pictures on the walls may help you to get aware of a whole story. These pictures actually signify tales from the epics or a part of the Rajasthani Folk Tales. These classical paintings date back to 17th and 19th century. The large collection of crystals that were collected by Maharana Sajjan Singh from F & C Osler, England is also a part of the Fateh Prakash Museum. This adds to the appeal of the palace as tourists are always willing to witness this splendid collection. The museum of the Fateh Prakash Palace also has a number of other items. The beautiful carpet studded with carpet is something that should not be missed. There is also a gallery that boasts a large collection of dining tables, dressers, perfume bottles and sofa sets. At the palace, you will be able to see the famous Durbar Hall. There are also axes, shields, knoves, farsa, helmets and soldier uniform inside the museum.
Rana Kumbha Palace: Rana Kumbha palace is 15th century palace where Rana Kumbha lived and spent his royal life. This historic monument is very popular among tourists due to its charming and artistic architecture. It is located in Chittorgarh Fort in Rajasthan. Rana Kumbha Palace is the oldest structure inside the fort just nea rthe vijaya stambha.Entry to the palace is through Suraj Pol that leads into a courtyard. The founder of Udaipur, Maharana Udai Singh was born in this same palace. Rana Kumbha palace has the cellar where brave Rani Padmini performed an act of jauhar along with other women during an attack of Khilji. Lord Shiva temple in the nearby and light and sound show in its coomplex takes visitors more close to the Chittorgarh Fort history.
Rani Padmini's Palace: Padmini’s Palace is a beautiful one and it is said that this beautiful palace was of Queen Padmini who was known for her divine beauty. The palace is located on a water body and there is a rose garden inside the palace and there are beautiful staircases made at the outside of the fort making it beautiful and different from the world.
The most famous heroine in the annals of Mewar is, probably, the comely Padmini, a contemporary poet's vivid imagination, quite possibly to supply a romantic reason for Ala-ud-Din's savage conquest of Chittor in 1303. The legendary Rani Padmavati (commonly known as Padmini) - archetype of all beautiful women - a dark-skinned maiden, her incredible beauty was soon acclaimed throughout India. Rani Padmini's Palace is from which Alauddin was allowed to watch a reflection of the Rani by replacing the mirror in such an angle that even if khilji turned back he could not see the room. Khilji had been warned by the rani's husband that if he turned back they would cut his neck.
Bhainsrodgarh Fort: Bhainsrodgarh Fort lies on the right bank of the Chambal River and a village lies within the fort. The fort is set amidst scenic surroundings. An ancient temple of Gaipar Nath Mahadev on the way is an idyllic picnic spot. Near the fort is Rana Pratap Sagar Dam. Rana Pratap Sagar dam is the second in the series of Chambal Valley Projects, located 52 km downstream of Gandhi Sagar dam across the river Chambal in Rajasthan. This dam was completed in the year 1970.
Bijaipur Castle: The 350 year old castle built by Rao Shakti Singh, the youngest brother of Maharaja Pratap, is the major attraction. Set in the midst of the Vindhyachal ranges, in Rajasthan, is one of the majestic hotels of Chittorgarh. The 16th century built Bijaipur Castle is a small hotel owned, inhabited and run by the local ruling family.
Kirti Stambh(Tower of Fame): Kirti Stambh is a tower situated in Chittorgarh in Rajasthan in India. The 22 meter high tower was built by a Bagherwal Jain merchant Jijaji Kathod in 12th century. It is a seven story intricate structure with a cramped stairway of 54 steps and is full of figures from Jain pantheon. The tower is built in the Solanki style. It is 30 feet at the base and narrows down to 15 feet at the top and is adorned with Jain sculptures on the outside. It is dated approximately around the 12th century. It is dedicated to the first Jain Tirthankara or spiritual teacher, Adinath, and has an impressive five-feet-high statue of the saint. This Jain tower has a complicated structure with carvings, niches and balconies. The carvings on the tower are the naked figures of various Jain teerthankars. The top most floor of the tower is an observation hall, which offers great views not only of the citadel but also of the surrounding area.
Vijay Stambh(Victory Tower)-: The Vijay Stambha which is also known as the Victory Tower is the mark of honor of the martyrs and was erected by Rana Khumba to celebrate his victory over Mahmud Shah KhaljiI and there are nine stories of this tower. The tower was repaired in the 19th century and this is one of the best attractions in Chittorgarh. Vijay Stambh, established by Maharana Kumba in Chittorgarh is a nationalistic masterwork built to remember the triumph of the kingdom over the trespasser Mohammed Khilji. Constructed between 1442 and 1449, this 'Victory Tower' commemorates King Rana Kumbha victory over joint armies of Malwa and Gujarat which was led by Khilji. The tower is adorned memorably with Hindu God and Goddess. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Vijay Stambh is a 9 story tower with a height of 37.19 mtr. Made with red sand stone and white marble, this tower has a balcony in each story. Filled with inscriptions, images of wepons, musical instruments etc, and this tower also has the portrait of Jaita, architect of this tower with his 3 sons – Napa, Puja and Poma. Tower is one of the most attractive parts in Chittorgarh Fort.
Meera Temple: Meera was a keen worshipper of Lord Krishna and she devoted her life in the name of Lord. The temple is built by Rana Kumbha and the temple is having a beautiful architecture. There are mandaps and pillars can be seen with beautiful craftsmanship and one can see many idols and images of Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna inside the temple. Meera Temple in Chittorgarh was built in North Indian architecture, which has an open arcade in the region of the chamber with four pavilions in each angle. Located in the Chittorgarh fort, it is in the compound of Kumbha Shyam Temple. Chittorgarh fort is one of the largest forts in India and Rajasthan. On the request of MeeraBai, an ardent devotee of Lord Krishna, her father in law "Maharana Sangram Singh I built a small Lord Krishna temple near the Kumbh temple. Kumbh temple is famously known as Kumbha Shyam Temple (Temple of Varah) which was built by Maharana Kumbha in 1449. There is also a small Chhatr in the temple which was built in the memory of Meera’s saintl guru, Rai Das (Swami Ravidas) of Varanasi.
Kumbha Shyam Temple: The Chittorgarh Kumbha Shyam Temple was built by Rana Kumbha. A visit to this temple of Chittorrgarh will also reveal a lot about the versatile king. You will be able to learn that Rana Kumbha has a great taste for art and music. The visit will also reveal that he was a follower of Hinduism. It is the actually the prime reason for which Rana Kumbha built so many Hindu temples. The Kumbha Shyam Temple in Chittorgarh India is dedicated to Varaha. Varaha is an incarnation of Vishnu. The temple built in Indo Aryan style presents a compact architecture. Though there is also a Kali Mata temple in the same premise but the Kumbha Shyam temple is dominating in size. One of the hallmark features of this temple is the paramedical roof. It also has a lofty tower.
On entering the temple, you will be mesmerized by the sculptured walls. It also displays the images of various Hindu gods and goddesses with eight regents. The archways are also a treat to the eye. They are decorated intersection loops and designs. There is also an inner sanctum in the temple.
There are number of tour operators which offer Chittorgarh tour packages. These tours are thoroughly enjoyable as it will reveal the rich history of the place along with a deep insight into the religious traditions of the place. Book your vacation packages to Chittorgarh temples and have a wonderful experience.
Kalika Mata Temple: One of the most captivating places in Chittorgarh, Kalika Mata temple belongs to the 14th century. It said that this temple placed across Padmini Palace was originally a temple of the Sun God, which was built here during the 8th century. This temple was destroyed after the attack by Allaudin Khilji. Dedicated to Goddess Kali (one of the forms of Ma Durga), this temple is an architectural gem that belongs to the Pratihara times. Thus, this temple is not only a popular religious site but is also quite popular amidst tourists and art aficionados who visit Chittorgarh.
Kalika temple in Chittorgarh is located on an elevated podium and has intricately sculpted mandap, entry gates, ceiling and pillars. However, a huge part of the temple got destroyed when Allaudin Khilji had attacked the region. The temple is placed between Padmini palace and Victory tower, two of the popular tourist attractions in Chittorgarh. The temple complex also has a huge empty area where ‘Ratri Jagrans’ are organized. Kalika mata temple is placed on a rock with its entry gate on the east. The temple complex also has a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is called Jogeshwar Mahadev. The temple complex booms with major tourist activity during the yearly festival time. Devotees pour-in from all around to pay homage to the Goddess. Special decoration and lighting is done at the time of Navratri, when devotees visit the temple every day in huge numbers.
Avari Mata Temple: Avari Mata Temple is one of the popular temples in Rajasthan which is located in the Bhadesar Town of Chittorgarh. The temple is dedicated to goddess Avari Mata and the temple the Aasawara village. The temple is beautifully nestled amidst the hills and springs. The temple is located near a pond which is believed to be holy and there is a beautiful idol of Lord Hanuman in the premises. The temple is having a serene and beautiful backdrop which is soothing and people in huge numbers visit here. The temple is constructed in a simple manner as the architecture is having two entries or doors and also made with small towers. The temple architecture is very much similar to ancient Hindu temples and there are beautiful paintings and structures of Hindu deities and the main Idol of the temple is located at the central part. The idol is beautifully decorated with flowers and gold jewelries.
It is believed that the temple is having special powers to heal people and the devotees visit to this temple to heal themselves from many ailments which are chronic and became incurable for years. There are many people who come with their families and stay here to get their family members cured fully and also visit the temple and enjoy the vicinity. There is a custom of taking oil to the temple where the oil is being purified with mantra and holy chants and used for treatments, as the oil is applied on the affected areas and it is believed that the patient gets cured. The devotees also attend the daily arty of Avari Mata which is sacred and the devotees attend there in huge numbers to see the arty. The occasion of Navrati and Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated with great pomp and show.
Mohar Magri (Hill of Gold Coins) : A small structure which was raised during the invasion of Chittorgarh by Akbar in 1567, it gets the name Mohar Magri because it is believed that Emperor Akbar paid one Mohar (gold coin) for each basketful of earth placed on the mound, as the work was very dangerous, brave soldiers guarding the ramparts fromabvoe. The mound was raised to such a height that the Mughal cannons could be placed over it and fired inside the fort. The important places inside are, the temple of Tulja Bhawani (the tutelary goddess of the scribes), the Naulakha Bhandar or nine lakh treasury, Singar Chauri, depicting inscriptions dating back to 1448.
Fateh Prakash Palace Museum: The Fateh Prakash Palace Museum is located inside the Chittorgarh Fort. It is a part of the palace which was transformed into a museum in the year 1968. The museum enjoys the status of being one of the most popular museums in Rajasthan. Visiting the museum is always a great experience for tourists. The variety of collection in the museum helps tourists to get a close look of the rich history and tradition of the place. The museum is divided into a number of sections. The various sections of the museum are Weapons and Tribal Life, Wood Crafts of Bassi village, Coins and art gallery. The museum boasts a large collection of sculptures. The most sought after among them is the statue of Ganpati from Pangarh. The statue was built during the 8th and the 9th century. This statue is a treat to the eye. There are also some other statues that also draw a considerable amount of tourists. Among them, the Indra and Jain Ambica statues from Rashmi village are significant ones. These statues depict back to the medieval period.
The Fateh Prakash Palace Museum also has section that exhibits various kinds of weapons. The large variety of weapons includes daggers, old shields, knives, helmets, axes, uniform of soldiers and farsa. Clay models of local tribes wearing traditional outfits are also a part of the exhibits of the museum.
Archeological Museum: One of the most popular museums of Chittorgarh, Archaeological Museum is home to such valuable artifacts that are of immense historical significance. Placed at the eastern ending of Banbir-ki-Diwar, this museum boasts of an amazing collection of innumerable historical artifacts sourced from the Chittorgarh Fort and objects related to Hinduism as well as Buddhism that were found at the time of the excavation. One can also spot Buddhist stupas, under the trees. These stupas are placed quite close to Patta Tank and Jaimal Tank. The collection at Archaeological Museum in Chittorgarh includes Stone Age objects, art and craft objects, coins, frescos, metallic objects, paintings, inscriptions, weapons, sculptures and terracotta figures etc. This museum was originally a fort, built by Maharaja Fateh Singh during the 19th century. In the year 1968, it was transformed into a museum by the government.
Chittorgarh Fort Garden: Located in the premises of the Chittorgarh Fort, the garden enhances the beauty of the fort manifolds. The garden is as old as the fort. As it is located inside the fort premises most of the tourists visiting the fort also get to see the beautiful garden. The garden offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty along with historical significance. The Chittorgarh fort gardens have wide variety of flowering and non-flowering plants. You will really enjoy the relaxing ambiance of the garden. It is just the perfect place for visitors to spend a leisure time. The garden also has a shimmering water reservoir at the front. The reservoir adds a lot of charm to the garden. Tourists visiting this garden always have a refreshing experience.
Padmini's Gardens: The beauty of Padmini's gardens reminds most of the people about the beauty of the Queen Padmini. Ala ud din Khuilji was smitten by the beauty of queen. As a result, he invaded the region to possess her. To save herself from being dishonored in the hands of the enemy, the queen committed suicide. Since then, the queen is remembered by the beauty of the garden. This garden also has the history of serving the residence of Mewar family. The garden actually serves the purpose of commemorating the queen. Padmini's Gardens has a lot of resemblance with the rest of the gardens of Chittorgarh. However, the westernization of the garden sets it apart from others. It is an extremely well-maintained garden. It offers a perfect place to the tourists to have a great leisure time. The garden within the premises of the fort actually enhances the beauty of the fort. A visit to this garden will be a great attraction for the tourists. There are a number of tour operators which offer a tour to Chittorgarh. It is always suggested to opt for a tour operator which has certain level of experience and expertise to deliver a comfortable tour. Most of these tours are embedded with a visit to the Padmini's gardens.
Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary: Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary near Bassi in Chittorgarh district of Rajasthan, India. It is located about 5 kilometres from the Bassi Fort Palace. The Wildlife Sanctuary spans over an area of 15,290 hectares and was established in 1988. The sanctuary is located on the western border of the Vindhyachal Ranges and includes the Bassi and Orai dams are part of the sanctuary. Antelope, wild boar, panther, mongoose and migratory birds inhabit the sanctuary. In addition to the animals, you might also be able to locate Migratory birds that come here for shelter. Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected region and for a visit you need to take permission from the District Forest Officer of Chittorgarh.
Shopping: Shopping in Chittorgarh is a delight to the tourists. Beautifully embroiderid Jutis made from camel leather is one of the most attractions of Chittorgarh markets. Besides Jutis other items like metal ware, fabrics, Akola fabrics and painted wooden toys are also quiet worth buying in Chittorgarh.
RanaSanga Market- From RanaSanga Market one can buy the best souvenirs and articles of Chittorgarh which are rarely found in any other parts of India and that is why the tourist who visit the city of Chittorgarh never miss visiting the RanaSanga Market and here the tourists can for the best collections of handicrafts, wooden toys and articles, jewelry and bangles, and the thing which is more popular in this market is the colorful dyed clothes which are studded with fine glass work and these are really unique buys of Rajasthan.
Sadar Bazar-This is one of the most prominent and important markets of Chittorgarh and the market is especially known for displaying the local items such as bangles, Rajasthani handicrafts, and puppets. The items that are displayed in the market represents the culture and tradition of Rajasthan and Chittorgarh too, so you can buy camel leather items such as Jootis, embroidered lehengas and dupattas, wooden toys and very commonly Thewa Jewelry which can be bought from almost every jewelry store.
Fort Road Market- This market is located on the way to the iconic Chittorgarh Fort and that is why the market is known as the Fort Road market and here you can buy for the various articles such as jootis, wooden craft works, and the best collection of thewa jewelry can be found here so If you are having some female companions with you then do not miss to visit this market.
Fair & Festival:
Teej- Teej is one of the major festivals in Chittorgarh which is celebrated with great enthusiasm. Teej is the festival of swings. It marks the advent of the monsoon month of Shravan (August). The monsoon rains fall on the parched land and the pleasing scent of the wet soil rises into the air. Swings are hung from trees and decorated with flowers. Young girls and women dressed in green clothes sing songs in celebration of the advent of the monsoon. This festival is dedicated to the Goddess Parvati, commemorating her union with Lord Shiva. Goddess Parvati is worshipped by seekers of conjugal bliss and happiness.
Gangaur- The Gangaur Festival is the colourful and most important local festival of Rajasthan and is observed throughout the State with great fervour and devotion by womenfolk who worship Gauri, the consort of Lord Shiva during July-Aug. Gan is a synonym for Shiva and Gaur which stands for Gauri or Parvati who symbolises saubhagya (marital bliss). Gauri is the embodiment of perfection and conjugal love which is why the unmarried women worship her for being blessed with good husbands, while married women do so for the welfare, health and long life of their spouses and a happy married life.
Jauhar Mela- The fort and the city of Chittorgarh host the biggest Rajput festival called the "Jauhar Mela". It takes place annually on the anniversary of one of the jauhars, but no specific name has been given to it. It is generally believed that it commemorates Padmini's jauhar, which is most famous. This festival is held primarily to commemorate the bravery of Rajput ancestors and all three jauhars which happened at Chittorgarh Fort. A huge number of Rajputs, which include the descendants of most of the princely families, hold a procession to celebrate the Jauhar. It has also become a forum to air one's views on the current political situation in the country.
Rang Teras – The Tribal Fair Rang Teras is a popular tribal fest of Mewar celebrated on the 13th moon night of the month of Chaitra. A big colorful fair and huge gathering of tribal to rejoice the harvest of wheat has been celebrating Rang Teras is customary since 15th century. It is a thanksgiving festival of farmers. Farmers pay their honor to Mother Earth for providing them food for next year. As a part of Celebrations, young men in village perform their valiant skills while dancing.
How to Reach: Chittorgarh Location - Chittorgarh is located in the southern Rajasthan or northwestern part of India. Chittaurgarh is 112 km from Udaipur and 182 km from Ajmer.
By Air-The nearest airport is at Dabok, Udaipur (112 KM) and linked by daily air service from New Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Ahmedabad and Mumbai.
By Train- Chittorgarh is well connected by rail with direct trains from Delhi, Jaipur, Ajmer, Ahmedabad, Jodhpur, Khandwa, Indore, Ratlam, Mandsore, Kota.
By Road- Chittorgarh is well connected by road and there is regular bus services for Udaipur, Adhmedabad, Mt. Abu, Jodhpur, Banswara, Bundi, Kota, Rawatbhata, Ajmer, Jaipur, Tonk and Nathdwara.
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