Chittorgarh, Rajasthan Tourism

Chittorgarh has a tumultuous past, one full of war, bloodshed, and if you were to think it over, maybe even romance. Established by the Sisodias in the eighth century, the kingdom of Chittorgarh continued to expand by annexing neighboring territories. The good times ended in 1303, when Allaudin Khilji, egged on by the beauty of Queen Padmini, raided the fort in order to carry her off. The story has its romantic elements, and its tragic outcome has immortalized it. It was also attacked by Bahadur Shah in the sixteenth century, and finally by Akbar, who decimated the fort. Today, Chittorgarh is peaceful; with nary a hint of the bloodshed and ruin that accompanies territorial ambition and lust. The old monuments and ruins look on silently as people go about their daily lives, ready to tell marvelous tales to those willing to listen.

Attractions

Chittorgarh Fort

The origins of this fort are shrouded in mystery. This massive fort has seven giant gates – Ram Pol and Suraj Pol being the two largest. The fort lies in ruins today, but it holds considerable attractions for tourists.

Rana Kumbha Palace

This palace is famous as the spot where Queen Padmini died. The palace architecture is marvelous and richly detailed.

Ratan Singh Palace

Named after the husband of Queen Padmini, this palace once hosted kings looking for respite from the harsh winters of the desert.

Padmini Palace

The quarters of Queen Padmini, the Palace is luxuriously built. There is a clear lotus pond on the palace grounds; and your guide will tell you the significance of the pond that played such an unfortunate role in the Queen Padmini-Allaudin Khilji saga.

Vijay Stambh

A tower built by Maharana Kumbha to commemorate his victory in the battle with Mohammad Khilji, the Vijay Stambh is 10 stories high. It has carvings of gods and goddesses of the Hindu pantheon, and attracts devotees from far and wide during the evening prayers.

Kumbha Shyam

This temple shows the influence of northern Indian architectural styles. It is believed that Meerabai, the sixteenth century saint, once visited this temple.

Markets

The Sadr and Rana Sanga markets are where you can purchase everything from toothbrushes to rare Rajasthani paintings. If you are looking for some great bargains, try these markets for traditional jewelry, dyed fabrics, and wood items.

How To Reach Chittorgarh

By Air : Chittorgarh does not have an airport. You can book a flight to the airport at Udaipur, and then travel down to the city by train or bus.

By Train : Rail services from Chittorgarh connect it to New Delhi, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, and Ajmer. This city is one of the stopover points of the luxury Palace on Wheels.

By Road : All major destinations in Rajasthan are connected to Chittorgarh by roads. You can take a state run or luxury bus, or hire a private taxi to reach Chittorgarh.