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Chittaurgarh Tourism Guide
Chittaurgarh Tourism Guide
The pride of Rajasthan, Chittorgarh still reverberates with the tales
of its glorious but turbulent past. It is a land where the ideals
of chivalry, sacrifice and honor were always worshipped. Today, all
that remains of those glorious times are the ruins of forts, palaces
and temples that have nevertheless managed to retain their old grandeur.
Chittorgarh has been a witness to some of the bloodiest battles fought
on Indian soil. The city itself was ravaged thrice staring with Alauddin
Khilji's attack in 1303 AD followed Bahadur Shah in 1533 AD. Mughal
Emperor Akbar attacked the city for a third time and razed the Chittorgarh
fort to the ground. The fort was never inhabited after that attack.
Every time Chittorgarh was attacked, its brave populace left no stone
unturned to defend their honor to the last breath. As the men rode
out to meet their adversaries on the battlefield, the women and children
would light a huge pyre and immolate themselves in order to escape
the marauding enemy.
Today, Chittorgarh is synonymous with the tragic tale of Queen Padmini
who chose death over dishonor by committing 'Jauhar' or self-immolation
with other women. It happened that Alauddin Khilji was so overwhelmed
by her beauty that he attacked Chittorgarh with the sole motive of
possessing her. However, queen Padmini foiled his plans by taking
the brave decision of facing death before giving him any chance to
fulfill his aim.
The spirit of sacrifice still lives on amidst the ruins of Chittorgarh.
In fact, a visit to this city truly adds up as an experience to remember
for a lifetime.
Tourist Places in Chittaurgarh
Vijay Stambh
Known as the "Victory Tower," the Vijay Stambh stands at
an impressive height of 37 meters. It was built by Maharaja Kumbha
in 1440 AD to mark his victory over the Muslim rulers of Malwa and
Gujarat.
Chittorgarh Fort
Built in the 7th century AD, the Chittorgarh Fort sprawls over an
area of 700 acres. The structure boasts of four magnificent gates
- Padam Pol, Bhairon Pol, Hanuman Pol and Ram Pol - that speak a lot
about their creator's artistic prowess. The palaces and temples housed
within the fort are mostly in ruins but still have a regal aura about
them.
Fateh Prakash Palace Museum
This museum is located inside the Chittorgarh Fort. It was established
in 1968 and displays a grand collection of sculptures and other royal
paraphernalia.
Jaimal and Patta Palaces
Though in ruins, these palaces still echo with many tales of valor
and sacrifice.
Kalika Mata Temple
Originally built as a Sun Temple in the 8th century, the Kalika Mata
temple was later dedicated to Goddess Kali --the symbol of power and
valor.
Kirti Stambh
The Stambh stands at a height of 22 meters and was built by a wealthy
Jain merchant in the 12th century AD. It is dedicated to Adinathji,
the first of the Jain Tirthankaras.
Meera Bai Temple
This beautiful temple is built in north Indian style and has an open
colonnade around the sanctum with four small pavilions in each corner.
Padmini's Palace
This palace was built for Queen Padmini whose overwhelming beauty
made Allauddin Khilji attack Chittorgarh.
Rana Kumbha's Palace
The ruined palace is believed to have underground cellars where Rani
Padmini and other women committed the act of 'Jauhar.'
Excursions
Bassi Village
Located 25 kms away from Chittorgarh, the Bassi Village is known for
its forts, temples, woodworks and sculptures.
Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary
The sanctuary is home to panthers, wild boars, antelopes and migratory
birds. However, prior permission must be obtained from the District
Forest Office of Chittorgarh before visiting the sanctuary.
Bijalpur
This grand castle is at a distance of 40 kms away from Chittorgarh.
It was built by Rao Shakti Singh and has now been converted into a
heritage hotel.
Matri Kundia Temple
Known as the 'Haridwar of Mewar,' this temple is dedicated to Lord
Shiva.
Nagari
Located 20 kms away from Chittorgarh, Nagari is one of the oldest
towns of Rajasthan. Many Hindu / Buddhist remains of the Mauryan and
Gupta period can be seen here today.
Sanwariyaji Temple
This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is a popular pilgrimage
spot.
Sita Mata Sanctuary
This sanctuary sprawls over the Aravalli ranges and the Malawi plateau
with three rivers flowing through it. Legend has it that Sita, wife
of Lord Rama stayed in a hermitage located within this jungle after
she was exiled by her husband. The animal populace is represented
by the Leopard, Hyena, Jungle Fox, Porcupine, Sambhar, Wild Bear,
four-horned Antelope and Nilgai.
General Information About Chittaurgarh
Area: 6.5-sq-kms
Population: 1,802,656 (2001 census)
Altitude: 408 meters
Location: 90-km From Udaipur, Rajasthan
Languages: Hindi, English, Rajasthani
Best Time to Visit: September to March
STD Code: 01472
Climate
Summer: 43.8°C (max) 23.8° C (min)
Winter: 28.37° C (max) 11.6° C(min)
Rainfall: 60 - 80 cm
How to Reach Chittaurgarh
Air: Nearest airport Dabok, Udaipur (90KM)
Indian Airlines - City Office, Delhi gate, Udaipur
Rail: Well connected by rail with direct trains from Delhi,
Jaipur, Ajmer ,Ahmedabad, Jodhpur, Khandwa, Indore, Ratlam, Mandsore,
Kota, Bundi Kachiguda etc.
Some important trains reaching Chittaurgarh are:
Chetak express (Delhi - Udaipur)
Meenakshi Express (Jaipur - Secunderabad)
Chittaur - Ahmedabad ( Fast Passenger)
Road : The town is well connected by road also and the bus
services for Udaipur, Adhmedabad, Mt. Abu, Sirohi,Jalor Jodhpur, Dungarpur,
Banswara, Bundi, Kota, Rawatbhata, Ajmer, Jaipur, Pratapgarh, Ratlam,
Indore, Tonk and Nathdwara etc. are available. |
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