Chittorgarh
has always been the pride and glory of Rajasthan. Once the place full of
citadels, graceful palaces and chhattris, today lies in ruins. But these
ruins echo the tales of valour and romance of the past, very unique to
Rajasthan and the Rajput people.
Chittor is famous for the
beauty of Rani Padmini and the quest of Allauddin Khilji to overpower
her. The legendary tale had a tragic end by Rani Padmini committing
Jauhar or suicide rather than dishonouring herself in the hands of a
foreigner. Since then Chittor has experienced many Jauhars and tragic
ends adding to the tales of valour of the Rajput kings of this place.
The place was often attacked by the Mughals and the Muslim rulers of
Gujarat. It was the heir of the kingdom of Chittor, Prince Udai Singh,
who fled the place only to build a new capital of his own and beautiful
that too on his name, today know as the city of Lakes, Udaipur.
Places
to see
- Chittorgarh
Fort
The fort is an important landmark in Chittorgarh and
is a must visit for tourists on a tour of Chittorgarh. The fort is
believed to date back to the times of the Mauryas in the 7th
century. The fort offers panoramic view of the area.
- Vijay Stambh (Victory Tower)
This tower was built by
Rana Kumbha to commemorate his victory over Mahmud Khilji of Malwa
in 1440 A.D. This 37 mtr High tower is 9 storeyed and has a number
of balconies at each storey which gives a nice view of the monuments
within the fort.
- Kirti Stambh (Tower of Fame)
The 22 mtr high Tower of
fame was built by a wealthy Jain merchant in the 12 century A.D. and
is dedicated to Adinathji, the first of the Tirthankaras. The tower
is decorated with Jain Pantheons.
- Rana Kumba Palace
The palace is another popular
tourist attraction in Chittorgarh. The palace was the site of the
last jauhar, when Akbar attacked Chittor. The palace houses a
beautiful Shiva Temple and the royal stable.

- Fateh Prakash Palace
You can also visit Fateh Prakash
Palace, which was built by Maharaja Fateh Singh in 1920. Built
beautifully, the palace now has been converted into the government
museum.
- Padminis Palace
Built beside a pool, this is a
magnificent palace. It was here that Rana Rattan Singh showed a
glimpse of Rani Padmini to Allauddin Khilji. Rani Padmini stood in
the Zenana Mahal, and her reflection was visible to Khilji in a
mirror placed in the main hall. Khilji, after having a glimpse of
the queen, was smitten by her beauty and with the passion to posses
her invaded Chittaur.
How to Reach
- By Air
Udaipur is the nearest airport to Chittorgarh.
- By Rail
Chittorgarh is well connected by rail network
with other parts of the country.
- By Road
Chittorgarh is easily accessible by road, as
it is well connected by road transport to nearby towns.