Chittaurgarh - the name itself evokes countless images of courageous Rajput rulers who laid down down their lives in battle field to well known superior enemies, of gorgeous queens whose beauty had a maddening appeal that forced foreigners to launch wars and of the sacred fire that embraced many women and children in its arms to save them from the atrocities of invading armies.
Chittaurgarh's history is laced with such events that still ring a bell in the hearts of the visitors and even those who are sitting far off comfortably in their homes and offices. The stories from its history begin to flow the moment an interested ear turns towards it. By the end of the session, Chittaurgarh leaves an impression that is wondrous, awe inspiring, confusing and heart rending at the same time. The sacrifices given to preserve the honour of the city inspire a patriot heart while simultaneously filling it with sorrow for the innocent lives lost due to the greed of others.
For tourists Chittaurgarh has an unparalleled charm. The early town that was confined within the walls of fort atop a hill, now spreads to the western part (of the hill). This new town is known as the Lower Town and has nothing much in specific to allure the tourists. However, the fort area is definitely not to be missed. Chittaurgarh can be explored at a leisurely pace from a bicycle or an autorickshaw. Charges are pretty reasonable and provides sufficient time to roam around as per one's choice.
For those who have little time in hand, a trip to Chittaurgarh can be clubbed with that of Udaipur. A single day should suffice to give a brief introduction to a place that has suffered so much but still managed to retain its identity.
PRIME ATTRACTIONS :
FORTS AND PALACES IN CHITTORGARH The Fort, Chittorgarh The indomitable pride of Chittaur, the fort is a massive structure with many gateways built by the literary rulers in 7th century AD. Perched on a height of 180 m high hill, it sprawls over 700 acres. The tablets and 'chhatris' within are impressive reminders of the Rajput heroism. The main gates are Padam Pol, Bhairon Pol, Hanuman Pol and Ram Pol. The fort has many magnificent monuments - all fine examples of the Rajput architecture. The ancient ruins of the fort are worth spending few moments in solitude. Vijay Stambh(Victory Tower), Chittorgarh The imposing 37 metres high structure with nine storey, covered with exquisite sculptures of Hindu deities and depicting episodes from the two great epics -Ramayana and Mahabharata. It was built in 1440 AD by Maharana Kumbha, a powerful ruler of Mewar to commemorate his victory over the Muslim rulers of Malawi and Gujarat.
Kirti Stambh (Tower of Fame), Chittorgarh : The22 metres high tower built by a wealthy Jain merchant in the 12th century AD. The tower is dedicated to Adinathji, the first of the Jain Tirthankaras and is decorated with figures of the Jain pantheon.
Rana Kumbha's Palace, Chittorgarh The ruined edifice of great historical and architectural interest, bring the most massive monument in the fort of Chittaur. The palace is believed to have underground cellars where Rani Padmini and other women committed 'Jauhar'
Jaimal and Patta Palaces, Chittorgarh : The ruins of palaces of Rathore Jaimal and Sisodia Patta are witness to the gallantry of these great warriors.
Padmini's Palace, Chittorgarh : Built beside a pool, the palace is a magnificent one. It was here that Rana Ratan Singh showed a glimpse of queen Padmini to Alauddin Khilji. Rani Padmini stood in 'Zanana Mahal' - a pavilion in the centre and her reflection was visible to Alauddin Khilji in a mirror placed in the main hall. After having glimpse of the legendary beauty, Alauddin went to the extent of ravaging Chittaur in order to possess her.
How To Reach:
By Road: Udaipur falls on the Golden Quadrilateral, lying midway between Delhi and Mumbai on National Highway (NH) 8 and is around 650 km from either metro. The roads in this part of the country are really nice, paved in the middle, and fit for self-driving. One can either drive from Jaipur (around 7 hours) or Ahmedabad (4-5 hours), or take a Rajasthan Tourism bus from India Gate in Delhi.
By Air: Dabok airport is 24 km from the city centre. Daily flights connect Udaipur with Jodhpur, Jaipur, Aurangabad, Mumbai and Delhi. The Airport is going through modernization project and soon going to have a new terminal building with additional 4 stands.
By Train: Train connectivity is established between Delhi, Jaipur and Ahmedabad through trains run by Indian Railway. Recently Udaipur got connected with Delhi Kota and Mathura with superfast Mewar express on broad gauge line. Udaipur is now also connected with the Kolkatta, by the train "Ananya Express".