Chittogarh is also known as Chittaur and was considered as the capital of Mewar under the Rajputs, from the 7th century to 16th century. The fort was named after Chittrangad Maurya. Chittorgarh is located in the southern section of Rajasthan, on the Berach River, a tributary of the Banas, and is the administrative headquarters of Chittorgharh District.
Chittogarh holds a significant place in the pages of history, as it evokes the striking memories of great heroism and sacrifice by Rajput men and women to protect their place from various intruders. In the span of primeval time, the place witnessed the both ravages as well as the triumphs of the war. Allaudin Khilji who desired Queen Padmini of Chittogarh, intruded the city in 1303 A.D, to which the queen and the other women of the court sacrificed themselves in a pyre of fire rather than submitting to foreign hands. Such was the pride and honor of the people living in that era.
Chittorgarh Fort is considered to be the largest fort of India. This huge fort is placed on a high hill near the Gambheri River in Chittorgarh and lies at a distance of about 112 km from the city of Udaipur in Rajasthan. This magnificent fort was built by various Maurya rulers during the 7th century. The fort stretches over an area of about 700 acres, extending to 3 km in length and 13 km in peripheral length.
Chittaurgarh Fort is a perfect example of the true courage and valor of the Rajputs. This imposing fort also involves well designed palaces, splendid cenotaphs and massive towers. The Fort of Chittorgarh has an enormous structure that is secured by its several strong gateways.
The origin of this fort traces back to Pandavas of Mahabharata. Legends say that, Bhima, the strongest among the Pandava brothers, built this fort. The fort also holds Meera and Khumba Shyam Temple within its premises. The temple is dedicated to Meera, who was a mystic poet and who had devoted her entire life to Lord Krishna. Her life has become a part of several bhajans and folk songs of the region and many other parts of India.
Things to Do
While on a trip to Chittogarh do not miss to visit some of the major attractions of the place. Some of the other chief attractions of the place apart from the fort are mentioned below-
Vijay Stambh
Vijay Stambh which is also known as Victory Tower is an imposing 37 m towering structure. This nine storey structure is covered with fine sculptures of Hindu deities, which reveals several episodes from the two great epics, namely the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The structure was constructed in 1440 AD by Maharana Kumbha, who was a powerful ruler of Mewar. It built to celebrate his victory over the Muslim rulers of Malawi and Gujarat.
Kirti Stambh
Kirti Stambh also known as Tower of Fame is a 22 m high tower, constructed by a wealthy Jain merchant during the 12th century AD. This tower is dedicated to Adinathji, the first of the Jain Tirthankaras and is sculpted with figures of the Jain pantheon.
Rana Kumbha's Palace
The palace is in the state of ruins, which is still the largest monument within the premises of the Chittogarh fort, displaying the rich historical and skillful architecture of the early period. The palace is believed to have underground cellars where Rani Padmini and other women committed 'Jauhar'. ‘Jauhar’ means the sacrifice of the queen and the other women rather than submitting to Allaudin Khilji.
Padmini's Palace
This striking palace has been built beside a pool. It was here that Rana Ratan Singh showed a glimpse of queen Padmini to Alauddin Khilji. After getting the glimpse of the renowned beauty, Alauddin went to the extent of intruding Chittogarh in order to possess her.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit the place is from November to February.
How to Reach
By Road: The place is well connected through road to all the parts of India.
By Air: The nearest airport to this place is at Udaipur, located at a distance of about 70 km from Chittorgarh.
By Rail: Chittogarh railway station is one of the busiest railway junctions in Western Indian Railways. The railway station is linked with major northern cities of North India, such as Mumabi, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Ajmer etc. .
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