Look in on the Land of the Best Forts in India.
Chittorgarh resonates with the tales of valor, pride and zeal of the Rajput's. The shepherds of Rajasthan sing a tale of courage and sacrifice that is known to every child and adult in the city. Chittorgarh is named after its most impressive structure, the Chittorgarh Fort which is situated on a 180 m high hill and spread over 700 acres.
Chittorgarh Fort has a tumultuous past. This Rajput stronghold has withstood three violent attacks throughout its history. The first was in 1303, when the Sultan of Delhi, Alauddin Khilji, who was fascinated by Queen Padmini, attacked her for kidnapping her.
Two centuries later, in 1533, the Sultan of Gujarat, Bahadur Shah, wreaked havoc. Four decades later, in 1568, the Mughal Emperor Akbar attacked and captured the fort. The fort was finally returned to the Rajput's in 1616 under the rule of the Mughal Emperor Jahangir.
Explore in Chittorgarh
Chittorgarh is known for its Chittorgarh Fort, which is the largest fort in India built on top of a hill spread over an area of about 700 acres.
1. Chittorgarh Fort
Chittorgarh Fort is an apt symbol of the Rajput spirit. Perched on a hill 180 meters high and spanning 240 hectares, this majestic fort tells the stories of courage, pride and romance sung for centuries in Rajasthan.
Legend has it that the construction of Chittorgarh fort was founded by Bhima, one of the brave Pandava brothers from India's famous mythological epic Mahabharata. The fort has many magnificent monuments, some of which have unfortunately been destroyed over time.
The imposing structure evokes days of victory and tragedy, and its walls echo with incredible stories of extraordinary men and women. A one kilometer road stretches from the base to the summit, passing visitors through seven gates before reaching the Rampol (Gate of Rama).
On the way between the second and third gates, visitors find two "chhatris" (reparations) in honor of Jaimal and Kalla, who sacrificed their lives during the 1568 siege by Emperor Akbar. The main gate of the fort is Surajpol - Sun Gate.
Image credit : Ravi Nariya2. Rani Padmini's Palace
The palace plays an important role in Rajput history. The structure is built on the edge of a lotus pond and has a mandapa which provides privacy for the female royals.
Alauddin Khilji, then Sultan of Delhi, saw Rani Padmini's reflection in the pool and was so impressed by her beauty that he led his army into battle to kidnap her.
3. Vijay Stambh
The Vijay Stambh was built by Maharana Kumbha to immortalize his victory over the Muslim rulers of Malwa and Gujarat. Partly made of red sandstone and partly white marble, the architectural marvel is a nine-storey minaret adorned with elaborate sculptures of Hindu deities.
Narrow stairs lead to the terrace where you can have a great view of the entire city from the balconies.
4. Kalika Mata Temple
Built in the 8th century, this ancient structure was originally built to worship the Sun God. In the 14th century, the temple was dedicated to the goddess Kali, a symbol of strength and courage.
5. Gaumukh Kund
Gaumukh Kund is a deep, spring-fed pond. The source comes from a rock such as Gaumukh or "cow's mouth". The Kund is considered sacred by locals.
6. Ratan Singh palace
Ratan Singh Palace or Ratan Singh Mahal is a monument of historical importance located around the Chittorgarh Fort.
The eastern entrance, spacious walls, grand courtyards, royal rooms, pillared chhatris, balconies, features of traditional Rajasthani architecture will amaze you.
Much of it is now in ruins, but the charm and royal atmosphere of the palace is still intact. The colors and textures seen in this monument are suggestive.
Be safe with some things
The heat in Chittorgarh can be annoying and a person will need adequate sun protection such as shade and a hat. Wear sturdy shoes to avoid injuries and sprains while climbing the Chittorgarh Fort.
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