What is the real history of Chittorgarh Fort?

This architectural majesty was built by Chitrangada Mori, who was the ruler of Mori Kingdom [later known as Mauryas]. Then it went to the hands of ‘Bappa Rawal’ of Mewar kingdom. There is still some confusion whether Bappa Rawal acquired it as dowry or captured it. After this, there were many attacks on the Fort. Since the Fort is in an elevated place, it was not easy for the enemies to attack. So the usual tactic used to attack them was cutting the supply of food and other essentials coming to the fort. So it would usually take several months to attack the fort.

In the 14th century, Alaudin Khalji captured the fort which was then ruled by Ratnasimha of the Mewar dynasty. It is said that Alaudin Khalji invaded the fort to marry Padmavati or Padmini, the queen of Ratnasimha. He was admired by the beauty of the queen. Later, the queen and all other women sacrificed themselves in a massive ‘jauhar’ [jumping into fire’], after the defeat of the king. It is believed that there were three jauhar including this, each time when they lost. Then after many wars and exchange of power. The Mewar dynasty became powerful. In the 15th century, Chittor was ruled by Rana Kumb for 35 years.

Then Chittor was ruled by many kings, and there were many wars. The above given historical facts have direct connection with the present day fort.

After the bollywood movie based on the queen Padmini, the place has become even more popular and attracts many tourists from all over. Currently, the fort is an UNESCO world heritage site.
Let us take a round of this architectural beauty, virtually.
 

Surya Mahal
 

Surya Mahal is the primary entrance. Other than this, there are seven gates [pols] to enter the fort. The entrance fee for Chittorgarh Fort is Rs. 40 for Indian tourists and Rs. 600 for foreigners. People aged below 15, both Indian and foreigners, are exempted from paying fees. Vehicles are allowed inside [only cars and motorcycles], after paying a certain fee. Cameras are allowed everywhere inside the fort premises, and they are not charged. Having a guide could be considered. Because, if you are travelling inside the fort there is a possibility of you missing the right route, as it is complained by tourists about poor internet connection on top. But always remember to approach only the official guides. It is recommended to travel in a car or two wheeler inside the fort as it is too long.

Vijay Stambha:

This monumental marvel was built by Rana Kumbh in the 15th century to mark the victory against Muhamed Khalji.

Vijay Stambha has many inscriptions and idols carved in it. It has idols of Vishnu, Mahaveer, and Padmini, among the others. It has inscriptions showing the details of the sculpts, and other events that occurred even during the construction of this beauty. 

Kirthi Stambha:

It is a beautiful and majestic tower built during the reign of Rawal Kumar Singh. It is considered to be built for glorifying Jain religion.

This tower was built in Solanki style, and comprises various idols and inscriptions. This tower was built even before Vijay Stambha.
 

Gaumukh Kund

As mentioned above, the fort is adorned with many water bodies too. One among them is ‘Gaumukh Kund’. ‘Kund’ refers to a small reservoir. 

The water constantly flows from somewhere, and comes through a cow face idol. At the place where the water flows out of the cow face, there is a Shiva Linga. This is an important place during spiritual tourism of Hindus. The pond is called ‘Tirtha Raj’ by the locals.

Rana Kumbha Palace

It is an architectural gem. This majesty has very beautiful balconies, halls, a horse stable, and an outstanding view point. This was believed to be built by Bappa Rawal, but later renovated by Rana Kumbh, and now named after him.

It is located near the Vijay Stambha. It has a temple inside. This palace is considered to be the place of jauhar of queen Padmini. This palace is believed to be haunted.
 

Padmini palace:
 

This is the palace of Padmini. It is said that Allaudin Khalji was allowed to see her reflection on the lotus pond surrounding the palace. Now we don’t find lotus, but the palace looks good.

Meera Bai Temple

Meera Bai was born in the Rana Kumbh palace. In the 15th century, Rana Kumbh built this temple for Meera Bai. This temple is another architectural beauty which is built in an Indo-aryan architecture.

Fateh Prakash palace:

This palace is definitely a majesty, and was built during the reign of Rana Fateh Singh. The palace is embellished with many pillars and an artistic balcony. This is definitely a must visit place.

Hotels in Chittorgarh

If you are planning to visit Chittorgarh Fort and some of the nearby places, and stay for a couple of days, then consider good  hotels in Chittorgarh. You can check out Bag2Bag's website for hotels to stay. There are many offers awaiting you there, especially during the festive season! Consider hotel rooms if you have a good budget and your plan is for more than two days, or else you can try hourly hotels.
 

Chittorgarh Fort timings
 

The fort is open only between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM. There are many places to visit within the fort. There are four palaces, 19 large temples, 20 water bodies, and 4 memorials. So staying in hourly hotels in Chittorgarh is recommended, if you are planning to visit only the fort. Further, these hourly stays are considered to be more affordable. You can stay up to 24 hours.

So the best way is to reach there at morning 8:00 AM, enter the fort after 9:00 AM, take your own time to enjoy the architectural beauty, and return before 6:00 PM. Do not forget to see the sunset from the right view point in the fort.

How to reach Chittorgarh Fort?

If you are planning to travel in flight, it is advisable to reach Dabok airport and then fly to Chittorgarh. There are several trains available from cities like Kota, Udaipur, Jaipur, Ajmer, and Delhi. For travelling through road ways, you can travel from cities like Jaipur, Indore, Delhi, and Ajmer.

To conclude

It is always advisable to include this site in your itinerary. Since the place is not overcrowded, this place also suits couples because of the privacy. This place is definitely a feast for the eyes.
Hope this blog provides you with all the information needed to visit Chittorgarh Fort. We wish you a happy journey!!

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