The Chittorgarh Fort is an epitome of the Rajputana pride, romance, and spirit, symbolizing chivalry and valour. The fort stands tall over a 180-meter high hill, covering a massive area of 700 acres. It is not only one of the largest forts in India but also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Exploring this grand fort, you will come across several palaces, temples, and towers that resonate with the history of heroism and sacrifice of its rulers. Notable spots within the fort include Vijay Stambha (Victory Tower), Kirti Stambha (Tower of Fame), Rana Kumbha’s Palace, Padmini's Palace, and Meera Temple. Each place tells its own story, creating a palpable connection with India's glorious past. The fort's grandeur and its haunting beauty are sure to leave visitors enthralled.
Experience the history of the Chittorgarh Fort come alive during the enchanting Light and Sound Show. This captivating show takes you back to the times of Rajputana glory and the tales of courage and bravery. Held in the evenings, the show uses the fort as its backdrop, and the narration includes tales about the legendary Maharana Pratap and the Jauhar performed by Rani Padmini and other women during the siege. The combination of the powerful narrative, impressive lighting, and sound effects creates a mesmerizing atmosphere that transports you back to the historical era.
Sadar Bazaar in Chittorgarh is a shopper's delight, especially for those interested in traditional Rajasthani arts and crafts. The bazaar is bustling with a variety of shops selling colorful clothes, handmade jewelry, intricately carved leather shoes (juttis), brassware, and the famous Thewa art, which is a type of traditional Rajasthani jewelry. You can spend hours browsing through the bazaar, engaging with local artisans, and picking up souvenirs. The market atmosphere is vibrant, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of Rajasthan. Be sure to practice your bargaining skills to get the best deals on your purchases.
Perched within the Chittorgarh Fort complex, the Kalika Mata Temple is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Kali, the symbol of power and valor. Originally built as a Sun Temple in the 8th century and later converted to a Kali temple in the 14th century, this temple showcases an interweaving of historical timelines and religious significance. Devotees from all over visit the temple to seek blessings and immerse themselves in the spiritual ambiance. The architectural style and the carvings on the temple walls are also of interest to history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
The Padmini's Palace or the palace of Queen Padmini is located within the premises of the Chittorgarh Fort, beside a beautiful lotus pond. This small but quaint palace played a crucial role in the history, as it is the place where Alauddin Khilji was allowed to see the reflection of Queen Padmini, which led to the siege of the fort. The palace's serene ambiance is complemented by a delightful boating experience on the lotus pond. The boat ride offers a peaceful retreat and a different perspective of the palace, surrounded by water and overlooked by the majestic fort.
The Vijay Stambha, or the Victory Tower, is an iconic structure that stands tall within the Chittorgarh Fort, symbolizing the triumph of Maharana Kumbha over the combined armies of Malwa and Gujarat in 1440. Climbing up the tower's narrow staircases rewards visitors with panoramic views of the entire fort complex and the surrounding countryside. The tower is adorned with intricate carvings of Hindu deities and features a detailed genealogy of the rulers of Chittorgarh. This architectural marvel is a must-visit for anyone interested in the grandeur of Rajput triumphs and heritage.
Kirti Stambha is a 12th-century tower situated within the Chittorgarh Fort, dedicated to Lord Adinath, the first Tirthankara of Jainism. The seven-storied pillar is shorter than Vijay Stambha but is significant for its religious and historical importance. It was built by a Jain merchant and is decorated with figures of the various Tirthankaras. Climbing to the top of the tower offers visitors a bird's-eye view of the surrounding fortifications and serves as a testimony to the peaceful coexistence of different religious faiths.
Immerse yourself in the vestiges of the Rana Kumbha Palace, the oldest palace within the Chittorgarh fort, and rumored to be the birthplace of Maharana Udai Singh II, the founder of Udaipur. It is a large palace complex with numerous rooms and a well-considered underground cellar where Rani Padmini and other women are said to have performed Jauhar. It is a haunting and evocative place, surrounded by the echoes of its poignant past. The exquisite gateways, arches, and remnants of the canopies in the palace are prime examples of Rajput architectural influence.
A short drive from Chittorgarh will take you to the Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The sanctuary covers an area of 50 square kilometers, housing a variety of flora and fauna. The diverse wildlife includes panthers, wild boars, antelopes, mongooses and migratory birds. The sanctuary offers jeep safaris for visitors to explore this natural habitat and get a closer look at the wildlife dwelling within. It's an exciting and educational experience for people of all ages.
The Meera Temple is intricately carved from red sandstone, and is dedicated to the devout Krishna follower, Saint Meera Bai. Situated in the Chittorgarh Fort, the temple has an open arcade around the sanctum and beautifully crafted idols of five human bodies with one head, symbolizing that all humans are the same. The daily aarti (prayer ceremony) at Meera Temple is a profound spiritual experience and offers a serene atmosphere where one can soak in the devotional music and sacred chants in the praise of Lord Krishna.
Hill Stations (1)
Religious Places (108)
Historical Places (122)
Museums (33)
Wildlife Sanctuaries (10)
National Parks (5)
Forts (9)
Villages (2)
Zoos (4)
Mountains (1)
Gardens (13)
Dams (4)
Lakes (11)
