The former capital of the Sisodia rulers of Udaipur, Chittaur perches atop the scraggy spine of the Aravallis. Sacked by Allaudin Khilji in the 14th century, by the sultans of Gujarat in the 16th century, and finally by the Mughal emperor Akbar's forces, it was abandoned by its rulers who vowed never to return unless they could avenge their defeat. The few remaining palaces and towers are part of its stirring history.

History

Chittorgarh has always been the pride and glory of Rajasthan. Once the place full of citadels, graceful palaces and chhattris, today lies in ruins. But these ruins echo the tales of valour and romance of the past, very unique to Rajasthan and the Rajput people.

Chittor is famous for the beauty of Rani Padmini and the quest of Allauddin Khilji to overpower her. The legendary tale had a tragic end by Rani Padmini committing Jauhar or suicide rather than dishonouring herself in the hands of a foreigner. Since then Chittor has experienced many Jauhars and tragic ends adding to the tales of valour of the Rajput kings of this place. The place was often attacked by the Mughals and the Muslim rulers of Gujarat. It was the heir of the kingdom of Chittor, Prince Udai Singh, who fled the place only to build a new capital of his own and beautiful that too on his name, today know as the city of Lakes, Udaipur.

Places To See

Chittorgarh Fort

The fort is an important landmark in Chittorgarh and is a must visit for tourists on a tour of Chittorgarh. The fort is believed to date back to the times of the Mauryas in the 7th century. The fort offers panoramic view of the area.

Vijay Stambh (Victory Tower)

This tower was built by Rana Kumbha to commemorate his victory over Mahmud Khilji of Malwa in 1440 A.D. This 37 mtr High tower is 9 storeyed and has a number of balconies at each storey which gives a nice view of the monuments within the fort.

Kirti Stambh (Tower of Fame)

The 22 mtr high Tower of fame was built by a wealthy Jain merchant in the 12 century A.D. and is dedicated to Adinathji, the first of the Tirthankaras. The tower is decorated with Jain Pantheons.

Rana Kumba Palace

The palace is another popular tourist attraction in Chittorgarh. The palace was the site of the last jauhar, when Akbar attacked Chittor. The palace houses a beautiful Shiva Temple and the royal stable.

Fateh Prakash Palace

You can also visit Fateh Prakash Palace, which was built by Maharaja Fateh Singh in 1920. Built beautifully, the palace now has been converted into the government museum.

Padminis Palace

Built beside a pool, this is a magnificent palace. It was here that Rana Rattan Singh showed a glimpse of Rani Padmini to Allauddin Khilji. Rani Padmini stood in the Zenana Mahal, and her reflection was visible to Khilji in a mirror placed in the main hall. Khilji, after having a glimpse of the queen, was smitten by her beauty and with the passion to posses her invaded Chittaur.