Chittorgarh Travel Guide

Rajput Fortress Town

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The fort stands on a 240-hectare site on a 180m high hill that rises rapidly from the plains below. Thrice a strong enemy sacked Chittorgarh and thrice its men rode out to meet inevitable death whilst the women committed jauhar, an act of self immolation by throwing themselves onto a pyre.

The approach to the fort is along a kilometre-long zigzag accent. The road leads through seven gates to the main gate Rampol (meaning Gate of Ram). On the climb between the second and third gate you’ll see two chattris (cenotaphs) built to honour Jaimull and Kulla, heroes of the 1568 siege by Emperor Akbar. The main gate of the fort itself is the Surajpol (meaning Sun Gate).

According to an oft-told legend the construction of the fort was started by Bhim, a Pandav hero of the mythological epic the Mahabharata. The fort had many magnificent monuments and yet Akbar carried away all the distinctive pieces of architecture and sculpture and placed them in his capital; they can still be seen in Agra Fort. Even though the fort is in ruin it is an overwhelming reminder of past glory and holds a special place in all Rajput hearts.

Activities in Chittorgarh

Allow a half-day to explore the fort. Chittorgarh is well off the beaten track and yet a visit is worthwhile – this is after all the largest of forts in a state where every town has one. Visit en route to/from Udaipur or from Bundi.

Relaxing

After exploring the fort head into town and the Pratap Palace Hotel to enjoy a cold drink.

Getting Around

Chittorgarh is best visited using your own transport which would enable a visit to be made with the most efficient use of time.

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