Read More on Chittorgarh Fort
History
Chittorgarh Fort History is rich with the tales and legends of various Rajput rulers as it was previously the capital city of the Mewar. According to some legends, the name Chittorgarh is derived from Chitrangda Mori a local Mori ruler. While some legends say that it is derived from the builder named Chitranga. If believed other legends, the legendary hero Bhima struck the ground here and a water reservoir was obtained which was later named Bhimlat Kund.
The Chittorgarh Fort is a gem of history and a symbol of sacrifice, valor, and bravery. Between the 15th and 16th centuries, it was captured three times. The famous battle of Mewar was fought between the Rana Ratan Singh and Alauddin Khilji in 1303, after defeating the Ratan Singh, Khilji captured the Chittorgarh fort. Bahadur Shah of Gujarat defeated Bikramjeet in 1535 after that Akbar defeated Maharana Udai Singh II in 1567 and captured the Chittorgarh fort. The Chittorgarh Fort is a tribute to Rajput Bravehearts.
Architecture
The Chittorgarh fort was built in two phases so there are two different architectural styles. The first one is Rajputana architecture and the other one is Sisodian architecture. Hexagonal and Octagonal towers are constructed with stone gates that provide a narrow path up to the fort. This fort houses Kanwar Pade ka Mahal, Rana Kumbha Palace, Ratan Singh Palace, Fateh Prakash Palace, and Mira bai Mandir.
Vijay Stambha: Vijay Stambha is a nine-story tower built by Rana Kumbha announcing the victory over Mahmud Shah Khalji I- the Sultan of Malwa. This structure is 37.2 meters high and spread over a 47sq. feet area. This tower took 10 years to build. This is a beautiful example of Rajputana architecture, the view of the entire Chittorgarh city is magnificent during the evening.
Kirti Stambh: This Tower of Fame is built by the Jijaji Rathod, a Bagherwal Jain merchant, and dedicated this to Adinath, the first Jain tirthankar. This 22-meter high tower consists of 54 stairs that were added after the 15th century.
Rani Padmini Palace: Rani Padmini Palace is a three-storied structure that was renovated and reconstructed in the 19th century. This is a splendid art of white stone Rajputana architecture situated at the southern part of the Chittorgarh fort.
Activities
Tips for visiting
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes while visiting the fort. As you have to cover a very long distance inside the fort on foot.
- Keep yourself hydrated and apply sunscreen to avoid the harsh sunburns.
- Do not forget to visit the famous attractions of the fort Vijay Stambh, Kirti Stambh, Rani Padmini Palace, Meera Mandir, Kalika Mata Mandir, Jain Mandir, Rana Kumbha Palace, Jauhar Kund, and Fateh Prakash Palace.
- Do not miss the light & sound show starting at 7:00 PM daily that takes you back to the bygone Mewar era.
- Do visit the Museums of the fort that consists of all the equipment, swords, and other war artifacts used by Rajput rulers.
Best time to visit
The Summers are a bit harsh in Chittorgarh as it is situated in Rajasthan. The best time to visit the Chittorgarh Fort Udaipur is during the winter season (November to March) as the weather remains moderate. Try to visit the fort during the evening, as it has several beautiful sunset places.
Nearby Atractions
- Rana Sangha Palace
- Vijay Stambh
- Kirti Stambh
- Meera Mandir
- Rani Padmini Palace
- Bhimlat Kund
- Fateh Prakash Palace
Nearby market/ shopping places
There are several markets and shopping places near Chittorgarh Fort which are mentioned below.
- New Cloth Market- This market is popular for any type of raw cloth material. Many clothing shops sell raw materials as well as readymade garments.
- Fort Road Market- You can buy traditional Rajput dresses, jewelry, and other souvenirs here. It is situated on the road to the fort.
- Rana Sanga Market- This market is famous for Thewa jewelry (gold jewelry embedded in glass), colorful jutis, and wooden painted toys.
Nearby Hotels
- Chittorgarh Fort Haveli
- Kukda Resort
- Hotel The Grand Chittor
- Hotel Amrit Manthan
- Hotel Shri Karni Vilas
- The Elegance Resort
Interesting Facts About Chittorgarh Fort
- It is the largest fort in India, covers a peripheral distance of 13 km and an area of 3 km in length.
- The main entrance of the fort is Surya mahal and other than this there are seven other gates (Pols) namely Padan Pol, Bhairon Pol, Hanuman Pol, Jorla Pol, Ganesh Pol, Laxman Pol, and Ram Pol.
- Within the fort, there are 4 palaces, 22 water bodies, 19 large temples, a few victory towers, and 4 memorials that enhance its beauty.
- This fort is listed under the hill forts in UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013.
- There are several Bollywood films picturized at Meera Mandir, Rani Padmini Palace, and Rana Kumbha Palace.