Rajasthan Travel Destinations - Chittaurgarh
The city of Chittorgarh lies 115 km to the east of Udaipur. It is spread over an area of 700 acres. Crowning a 7-mile long hill, Chittorgarh is home to numerous palaces, towers, temples, etc. The history of Chittorgarh is very rich, full seizures and acquisitions. Bappa Rawal, the founder of the Sisodia dynasty, married princess Solanki. The kingdom of Chittorgarh was first given as a dowry gift to him in the mid 8th century. Read on this Chittorgarh city guide to explore the city further:
Throughout the period of 8th century to the 16th century, the descendents Bappa Rawal reigned over Mewar, stretching from Gujarat to Ajmer. And during these times only, Chittorgarh was besieged three times. The first time Chittorgarh besieged was in the year 1303. Pathan King Ala-ud-din Khilji got awed by the beauty of Queen Padmini and attacked the Chittorgarh fort to capture her. The year 1535 saw the Bahadur Shah, the Sultan of Gujarat, raiding the fort and sentencing many men to death. It was during this time that womenfolk of Chittorgarh, led by Rani Karnawati, committed Jauhar (self immolation). After a few years, in 1568, Mughal Emperor Akbar wrecked the fort and brought it to ruins.
Presently, the Chittorgarh of Rajasthan, India extends below the hill on the west side. An embodiment of Rajput pride, romance and spirit, Chittorgarh abounds with tales of heroism and sacrifice. The main attraction behind Chittorgarh travel & tourism is its colossal fort, built on top of a hill. The fort is a reflection of the Rajput culture and tradition. Apart from that, there are a number of towers, palaces, museums and temples worth visiting in the city.
Chittorgarh Fort: Chittorgarh fort is a huge and colossal structure. The entrance to the fort is provided through seven gates and lead up to the main gate, Ram Pol (gate of Ram). The main gate of the fort itself is Suraj Pol (Sun gate). As per the legend, Bhim, a Pandava, started the construction of the fort. There are a number of magnificent monuments inside the fort itself. More About Chittorgarh Fort
Vijay Stambh: Vijay Stambh means the tower of victory. Maharana Kumbha built the Vijay Stambh in 1440 AD to celebrate his victory over Mohamed Khilji. It is 9 stories high and is decorated with the sculptures of Hindu deities. It provides an entrancing sight in the evening, when it is illuminated with bright lights.
Kirti Stambh: Kirti Stambh means the tower of fame. Built by a wealthy Jain merchant in 12th century, it is dedicated to Adinathji, the first Jain teerthankar. Naked figures of the Digambars adorn the tower. It is 22 m and 7 stories high.
Rana Kumbha Palace: Chittorgarh, Rajasthan sightseeing tour must include Rana Kumbha Palace, the most imposing monument in the Chittorgarh fort. Rich heritage and architecture define this palace. It is believed that the palace has underground basements where Rani Padmini and other women performed Jauhar.
Kumbha Shyam Temple: The Kumbha Shyam temple is built in an Indo-Aryan style. The temple is linked to Meerabai, a passionate and ardent devotee of Lord Krishna.
Ratan Singh Palace: Ratan Singh Palace was built as a winter resort for the kings. Looking over a small lake, it presents a picturesque sight.
Padmini Palace: The famous places to see in Chittorgarh also include Padmini Palace, built adjacent to a lotus pool. It has a legend attached to it. Ala-ud-din saw the reflection of Queen Padmini in this pool. He was so captivated and entranced by her that he fought a furious battle with Maharana Ratan Singh (husband of Maharani Padmini). This battle changed the history of Chittorgarh.
Climate
The climate of Chittorgarh is quite dry and parched. The summer season extends from April to June and is quite hot. The average temperature in summers falls between 43.8° C to 23.8° C. The winter season lasts from October to February. Chittorgarh weather in the winters is pretty cool. The temperature averages around 28.37° C to 11.6° C. The monsoon season falls during the months of June to August. As far as climatic conditions of Chittorgarh, Rajasthan in monsoon are concerned, there is only slight rainfall that averages around 60 cm to 80 cm. The best time to visit Chittorgarh is between September to March.
How to Reach Chittorgarh
By Air:
The nearest airport is the Maharana Pratap Airport at Udaipur, about 90 km from Chittorgarh city.
By Rail: Chittorgarh is well connected by rail to other cities and towns of Rajasthan and India. The Chittorgarh railway station connects Chittorgarh to cities such as Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Ajmer, Kota, Udaipur and Delhi. In addition to this, you also have the option to travel by the Palace on Wheels luxury train.
By Road:
There are regular bus services from Chittorgarh to other cities in Rajasthan and India. Bus services operate for Delhi, Mount Abu, Jaipur, Indore, Ajmer and many other towns.
