Top 6 Spots in and around Chittorgarh Capital of the erstwhile kingdom of Mewar, Chittorgarh is located on the banks of river Gambhiri in the Chittorgarh district of Rajasthan. The Chittorgarh fort, from which the city derives its name, stands as a testimony to the Rajput pride and valor. Venue to several glorious battles, the one most remembered was the siege by Ala-ud-din Khilji when rather than falling into the hands of the attackers, the women committed jauhar (self-immolation) while the men went to war.
The Chittorgarh fort was built by the Mauryans in 7th century AD. Standing atop a 180 m high hill, the fort has 22 water bodies, palaces, towers and temples and is is spread over 700 acres. The fort is one of the strongest forts in India and its main attractions are the two commemoration towers, Kirti Stambh and Vijay Stambh. The former was built to honor the first Jain Tirthankar and the latter was built to commemorate the victory over Mohammed Khilji.
Chittorgarh is also a great place for shopaholics. Visitors can buy metal works, fabrics, handmade toys, leather shoes and jewelry.
Another attraction of the city is the biggest Rajput festival called Jauhar Mela held to honor the sacrifice and bravery of the ancestors and all three jauhars which happened in Top 6 Spots in and around Chittorgarh.
Chittorgarh Fort
The Chittorgarh Fort, the majestic establishment is spread across 700 acres of land and was recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013. The Fort gets its name from Chitrangada Mori, one of the key personalities responsible for the construction of the structure. The Fort is a network by itself encompassing temples, towers, Palaces and Many water Bodies. Also, The Main attractions are the two memorial towers, namely Kirti stambh and Vijay Stambh. The Fort has a nominal entrance fee of 10 INR for adults and 5 INR for children. The enticing History and culture of the Fort is what makes it one of the Must-visit places in Chittorgarh.
Rana Khumba Palace
Precincts of Chittorgarh Fort housed this beautiful Palace. The Palace is famous for its architectural brilliance and grandeur. Besides, There are a lot of fascinating tales about Rana Khumba Palace, and most intriguing one, The Palace haunted by the Spirits of Rani Padmini and Rana Khumba. After the Gallant defeat of King Rana Khumba, Rani Padmini declared Self-Immolation in the Palace. Hence, this incident the roots behind the current tales about the Palace. Palace is next to the entrance gate close by to the Vijay Stambh and is 5 km from the centre of the Fort. Regular rickshaws are available and at a nominal price. All the tales and numerous attractions make this Palace one of the must-visit places in Chittorgarh.
Padmini Palace
Rani Padmini is quite a popular figure across India, thanks to movie Padmavat which depicts the epic tale of the Queen. Palace is built in the southern end of the Fort and located in the middle of the water. This is Place where sultan of Delhi got the first glimpse of the Queen Padmini as a mirror image. Rani Padmini is widely recognised for her impeccable beauty as well as war skills. Also, History and locals consider her as a symbol of bravery and valour. The Palace is open on all days and you can visit anytime between 6 a.m to 6 p.m Top 6 Spots in and around Chittorgarh.
Vijay Stambh
King Rana Khumba build this enormous tower in 1449 AD. There are 9 outward facing balconies in the Tower, each has its own tale and history behind it. The Stambh is a symbol of the victory of Rana Khumba over Mahmud Khilji. You will plenty of Hindu gods and goddess inscribed on the walls of the tower. 10 feet tower is one of the must-visit places in Chittorgarh owing to its significance in the history of Rajputs. though The tower is open on all days, the visiting time of the tower is between 8 a.m t0 6 p.m Top 6 Spots in and around Chittorgarh.
Meera Temple
Meera Bai is the greatest devotee of Lord Krishna. Chittorgarh is also the birthplace of Meera Bai. Though born in a royal family, Rajput princess left behind her princely lifestyle and dedicated her life in worshipping lord Krishna.
The temple is dedicated to Meera Bai and has an Indo-Arian architecture theme. It is one of the beautiful temples in Rajasthan and also a splendid work of art. Temple organises cultural festivals multiple times during the year and devotees of Lord Krishna assemble to offer their prayers.
Chittorgarh Railway station is the nearest station to the temple. You will easily get a cab or public transport from the station that will drop you to the temple road. The temple is open throughout the week and visitors are free to visit the temple any time during the day Top 6 Spots in and around Chittorgarh.
Kali Mata Temple
One of the oldest temples in Chittorgarh. The Temple was build to worship Sun Lord in the 8th Century and eventually became a shrine of Mata Kalika, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The inner walls of the temples are embellished with inscriptions of gods and goddess. There is no entrance fee for the temple and is usually open from 9.30 a.m till 6.30 p.m throughout the week.
Chittorgarh has Many such attractions apart from the ones listed above. Chittorgarh is also home to a couple of famous bird sanctuaries namely the Sita Mata wildlife sanctuary and Bassi wildlife sanctuary. These are also must-visit places in Chittorgarh as they add contrast to your itineraries. The best time to visit Chittorgarh is during the Autumns from Oct – Feb. As the summers can be scalding and will be difficult to get accustomed to such temperatures Top 6 Spots in and around Chittorgarh.
