How To ? When ? Why? Where

Chittaur is the pride and glory of Rajasthan. Its name is written in golden letters in the history of India. It revels the tales of romance and valour unique to the Rajput tradition . It is famous all over the world for its royal past, magnificent forts, graceful palaces and spectacular chhatris.

In 1303 A.D. Alauddin Khilji was the first to attack Chittaur. The main reason of his attack was his passionate desire to possess the regal beauty, queen Padmini. He was struck by her mesmerizing beauty when he saw her face in the reflection of a mirror. But the noble queen preferred death and committed Jauhar.

CLIMATE

It is advisable to explore this city of Rajasthan in winter as the maximum temperature in Summers is 43 degree as compared to 23 degree in winter. The ideal time is between September till March.

Its altitude is 408 meters above the sea.

HOW TO REACH

By Air: Dabok airport in Udaipur, which is 90 km is the nearest airport.

By Rail: The city is well connected by rail.

By Road: Bus services operate to several important destinations.

PLACES OF INTEREST

Vijay Stambh (Victory Tower)

Maharan Kumbha, one of the powerful ruler of Mewar, built this tower in 1440 A.D. This 37 meter high structure has nine storeys and is covered with exquisite sculptures of Hindu deities. It depicts the episodes from the Two great hindu epics - the Ramayana and the Mahabharatha. Maharana Kumbha built it to commemorate his victory over the Muslim rulers of Malwa and Gujarat.

The Fort

This massive fort is the pride of Chittaur. It has many gateways. The later Maurya rulers built it in 7th century A.D. Spread over 700 acres it stands on the height of 180 m high hill. The tablets and the chhatris within tells the brave story of the Rajput heroism. Padal Pol, Bhairon Pol, Hanuman Pol and Ram Pol are its main gates. The fort is the beautiful and fine examples of Rajput architecture.

Kirti Stambh (Tower of Fame)

A wealthy Jain merchant built it in the 12 th century AD. This 22 meters high tower is dedicated to Adinathji, the first of the Jain Tirthankaras. It is decorated with figures of the Jain pantheon.

Padmini Palace

This magnificent palace is built beside a pool from where Rana Pratap Singh showed a glimpse of queen Padmini to Alauddin Khiliji. According to different stories Rani Padmini stood in a Zanana Mahal - the pavilion in the center and her reflection was visible to Alauddin Khilji in a mirror placed in the main hall. Alauddin was so much impressed by the beauty of the queen that he went to the extent of ravaging Chittaur in order to posses her.

Rana Kumbha Palace

This palace is the most massive monument in the fort of Chittaur. It has a great importance in the history of Chittaur. It is believed that the palace has an e underground cellars where Rani Padmini and other women committed Jauhar.

Kalika Mata Temple

In the 8th century this temple was built as a Sun Temple but later it was converted into Kalika Mata Temple in the 14th century A.D. It is dedicated to the Goddess Kali - the symbol of power and valour.

Kumbha Shyam Temple

Built in the Indo-Aryan style, the temple is associated with the mystic poetess Meerabai- an ardent Krishna devotee.

Jaimal and Patta Palaces

The palaces revels the story of the great warriors of Rathore Jaimal and Sisodia Patta.

Government Museum

The Fateh Prakash Mahal has been converted in a fine Museum. It is an exquisite example of sculptures from temples and buildings in the fort. Closed on Fridays.

OTHER EXCURSION

Besides all these magnificent buildings you can enjoy your weekends to the nearby places of Chittaur. These are:

- Bassi Village(25 Km) : famous for historical forts,temples and kunds.

- Nagari(20 Km) : famous for Hindu and Buddhist remains from the Mauryan and Gupta period.

- Sanwariyaji Temple(40 Km) : important pilgrimage for hindus as a temple of Lord Krishna is situated here.

- Sita Mata Sanctuary,Dhariyavad : the common fauna that can be sighted here includes leopard, hyena, wild fox, porcupine, sambhar, wild boar, four horned antelope, nilgai and flying squirrel.

- Menal(90 Km) : famous for its ancient Shiva temples and picturesque water falls and dense forests.

- Bijaipur(40 Km) : a marvelous castle, which has been converted into heritage hotel.

- Martia Kunda Temple(50 Km) : dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Enjoy your trip to the land to warriors!