Welcome to Chittorgarh Fort, a majestic testament to Rajasthan’s rich history and architectural grandeur. Perched atop a hill, this colossal fortification beckons with tales of valor, romance, and resilience. Join us on a journey through this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where every stone narrates a story of honor and heritage against the backdrop of Rajasthan’s timeless landscapes.
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What is the Chittorgarh Fort?
Chittorgarh (also referred to as Chittor or Chittaurgarh) is a city in the state of Rajasthan, India, known for its historical significance and the massive Chittorgarh Fort. The fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the largest forts in India and a symbol of Rajput valor and bravery.
The modern city of Chittorgarh is situated in the lower plains, while the historic Chittorgarh Fort is positioned atop a prominent hill. This geographical layout adds to the city’s distinctive charm.
Chittorgarh has a rich history, with tales of heroic battles, royal traditions, and cultural heritage. The city is home to various palaces, temples, and monuments that reflect its glorious past. Some notable structures within the Chittorgarh Fort include the Vijay Stambh (Victory Tower), Kirti Stambh (Tower of Fame), and Rana Kumbha’s Palace.
History of Chittorgarh Fort
Chittorgarh Fort served as the residence of the Mewar rulers, particularly during the times when Chittorgarh was the capital of the Mewar region. It played a crucial role in the power struggles among the Rajput clans. The Mewar rulers, such as the Sisodia Rajputs, established their dominance from the Fort.
The city’s narrative is intricately woven with the sagas of Mewar rulers and their steadfast resistance against invasions. Chittorgarh stands as a witness to multiple sieges, with two particularly renowned instances in 1303 and 1567-1568, each etching a lasting imprint on the city’s history.
Siege of Chittorgarh in 1303: This siege took place when Alauddin Khilji, the Sultan of Delhi, attacked the fortress. The Rajput ruler, Rana Ratan Singh, valiantly defended the fort, but the siege ended tragically, leading to the famed acts of jauhar and saka.
Siege of Chittorgarh in 1567-1568: This later siege occurred during the reign of Akbar, the Mughal emperor. The fort was defended by Rana Udai Singh II. The siege resulted in the heroic defense of the fort but ultimately ended with the decision by the women to perform jauhar to avoid capture.
Jauhar and Saka: Chittorgarh witnessed multiple instances of “jauhar” (self-immolation by women to avoid capture) and “saka” (mass suicide by men) during times of siege. These acts were considered as symbols of honor and resistance in the face of defeat.
Where is Chittorgarh Fort?
The city of Chittorgarh is located in the region of Mewar, a historic region in the southern part of Rajasthan known for its rich cultural and historical heritage. Chittorgarh is well-connected by road and rail. It has a railway station and is accessible via National Highway 48.
Chittorgarh is approximately 117 km (73 mi) from Udaipur and about 315 km (196 mi) from Jaipur. Here is the exact location of the Fort:
How to get there?
Reaching Chittorgarh isn’t particularly complicated. Here is how to get there by different means of transportation:
BY BUS: It’s possible to reach Chittorgarh by bus from nearby major cities. From Udaipur, for instance, you can hop on a bus for a 2-hour journey for about 300 INR ($3.60 USD). From Jaipur, the trip takes about 5 hours and a ticket costs 450-500 INR (about $6 USD). You can check busses on redbus.in, selecting “Chittor (rajasthan)” as your destination.
BY TRAIN: Chittorgarh is connected by direct trains to the cities of Ajmer and Udaipur. Trips to further cities like Jaipur or Delhi may require multiple trains. Always rely on IRCTC to search trains and book your tickets. Read more about trains in India in our dedicated post.
BY CAR: Hiring a driver might be the best choice to visit Chittorgarh on a day trip. Asking your hosts for a driver might be the best way to find one. It always worked for us, and prices in India are very affordable.
Chittorgarh Fort Entrance Fee (2023)
As of 2023, the entrance fee for domestic visitors to Chittorgarh Fort is 40 INR. The admission fee for international visitors – on the other hand – has been increased to 600 INR ($7.20 USD) per person. The entrance fee for domestic visitors is 40 INR.
Entrance is free for people under the age of 15, both locals and foreigners.
While the cost may appear modest for accessing this historical site, it’s noteworthy that the entrance fee was only 200 INR ($2.40 USD) until 2020!
Photography is allowed everywhere in Chittorgarh and there are no camera fees.
Guided Tours at Chittorgarh Fort
The guide business at the Chittorgarh Fort is the main job opportunity for many locals. Official Guides are recognisable thanks to a document which should be shown at all times.
Check the images below for reference:
Do you need a guide?
If you read our blog before, you probably know how much we love to visit places independently. However, Chittorgarh Fort is one of those places where a guide becomes indispensable, especially given the rich history of the place.
In addition, the scale of Chittorgarh Fort is immense! The road running along the fort’s perimeter is 8.5 km long, making it quite a challenge to cover on foot within a reasonable time. That’s precisely why most visitors opt to explore Chittorgarh Fort by car. Read on for more details.
Unofficial Guides at Chittorgarh Fort
Due to the little job opportunities offered by the city and the huge amount of tourism driven by the fort, many people claim to be guides and try to find clients near the entrance.
Fights among unofficial guides over tourists are not uncommon. These disputes often revolve around securing potential clients, as unofficial guides compete fiercely to attract visitors to their services.
How Does a Visit Work?
The way a visit to the Chittorgarh Fort work is quite unusual. To start with, you should see the Fort as a small town instead of as a tourist attraction.
In fact, most people access the fort with their own vehicle, and while it’s not strictly necessary you probably should do the same. You can either hire a car with a driver or a tuk tuk and explore the Fort, with or without a guide.
If you opt for a guided tour, the guide usually gets in your car and goes around the fort with you.
You can also visit the Chittorgarh Fort by yourself on foot, but keep in mind the areas between places are quite
Standard Tours at Chittorgarh Fort
Choosing an official guide means you’ll have a set rate and won’t have to worry about getting tricked by any local scammers. Here’s what the official tours looks like, with the official rates.
The most popular tours are the “Complete Visit” and the “Short Visit”
COMPLETE VISIT: Explore 11 places of interest on a 2-hour guided tour, priced at 850 INR ($10 USD) for groups of 1 to 5 people. The same guide will charge 1050 INR ($12.50 USD) for groups of 6 to 15 people, and 1250 INR ($15 USD) for groups ranging from 16 to 35 people.
SHORT VISIT: If you’re short on time you can still explore the 6 most important spots of Chittorgarh Fort in about an hour. The guide for this tour costs 650 INR ($8 USD) for groups of 1 to 5 people, 850 INR ($10 USD) for groups of 6 to 15 people and 1050 INR ($12.50 USD) for groups larger than 16 people.
What to see at Chittorgarh Fort: a Detailed Guide
At the entrance of Chittorgarh Fort, you’ll come across the following map. The fort spans approximately 5 km in length and 700 m in width, showcasing its impressive dimensions. The historical weight of the Chittorgarh Fort becomes clear, attesting to its importance as a significant city in centuries gone by.
After getting your tickets at the entrance, the visit begins, usually in an anti-clockwise direction. Here is a list of places you’ll visit on your trip around Chittorgarh Fort:
🗺️ HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Click the top left icon to get more info about this map. Use the star icon next to the title to save it in your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu button, then go to “your places“, tap on “maps” and you will see this map on your list.
Rana Kumbha Palace
Rana Kumbha Palace epitomizes Rajput architecture. Built by Rana Kumbha, it features intricate designs, balconies, and archways.
The palace offers panoramic views and includes the queen’s residence, Zenana Mahal, along with a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Steeped in history, the palace stands as a captivating testament to the cultural richness of Chittorgarh.
Meera Temple
The Meera Temple is a historical edifice dedicated to the Bhakti saint Meera Bai. Constructed in the 16th century, the temple showcases Rajput architecture through intricately carved pillars and arches. It serves as a homage to Meera Bai’s devotion to Lord Krishna, with detailed carvings illustrating her life and religious fervor.
The temple’s austere design and cultural significance make it a notable site within the Chittorgarh Fort complex, offering visitors a glimpse into the religious history and architectural heritage of the region.
The Victory Tower (Vijay Stambh)
The Victory Tower, also known as Vijay Stambh, is a monumental structure that bears witness to the historical significance of the region. Built in the 15th century by Maharana Kumbha to commemorate his victory over Mahmud Khilji, the tower stands at an impressive height of over 37 meters.
Its nine stories are adorned with intricately carved sculptures and inscriptions, reflecting the architectural prowess of the Rajputs. The tower provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, offering visitors a tangible connection to the triumphs and resilience of Chittorgarh’s storied past.
Gaumukh Kund Water Resevoir
The Gaumukh Kund is one of the several water reservoirs located within Chittorgarh Fort. This one, in particular, holds historical and cultural significance. The reservoir is named for its unique source, resembling a cow’s mouth (Gaumukh in Hindi).
Fed by a perennial natural spring, the Kund served as a vital water source for the fort’s inhabitants during ancient times. Pilgrims and visitors can witness the ingenious engineering that directed water into the reservoir through a cow-shaped spout.
This ancient water conservation system not only reflects the architectural brilliance of the Rajputs but also underscores the practical solutions employed to address the water needs of Chittorgarh Fort.
Water Management System: Chittorgarh Fort is known for its advanced water management system, which included numerous tanks and reservoirs to ensure a sustainable water supply during times of siege. This engineering feat contributed to the fort’s ability to withstand prolonged attacks.
Jauhar Place (Johor Place)
Jauhar Place stands as a somber testament to the historical events that unfolded within the fort’s walls. Jauhar, a self-immolation ritual undertaken by Rajput women to avoid capture during times of war, occurred at this site during several instances in Chittorgarh’s history.
Today the area is marked by memorial stones and architectural remnants, bearing witness to the courage and sacrifice of the women who chose this tragic fate over submission to the enemy.
Shiva Temple (Samidheshwar Temple)
The Samidheshwar Temple is a splendid example of medieval Indian temple architecture. Built in the 11th century by Parmar Raja Bhoj of Malwa, it is also known as Tribhavannarayan and Bhoj Jagti.
Solanki king Kumarpal of Gujarat visited in 1150 AD, offering prayers and inscribing his conquest. Renovated in 1428 by Maharana Mokal, it earned the name Mokal Ji’s Temple.
The temple houses a three-faced idol of Lord Shiva, resembling the revered Shiva idol in the Elephanta Cave of Mumbai. Samidheshwar Temple, a convergence of history, spirituality, and architectural splendor, stands as a testament within Chittorgarh.
Padmini’s Palace
Rani Padmavati Mahal is an architectural gem within Chittorgarh Fort. This Palace embodies the rich history and cultural legacy of the region.
It was constructed as a tribute to Queen Padmavati, the beloved consort of Maharana Ratan Singh, and it stands as an enduring symbol of Rajput valor and romance.
The palace complex, adorned with intricate carvings and elegant architecture, served as the residence of Queen Padmavati. It witnessed the historic events surrounding the siege of Chittorgarh and the legendary tale of Padmavati’s legendary beauty.
Bhimlat Kund
Bhimlat Kund is a historically significant reservoir named after the legendary Pandava prince, Bhima. According to local lore, Bhima is believed to have created this kund with a powerful strike of his mace, resulting in the emergence of a natural spring.
Kund: a tank or small reservoir in which rainwater is collected for drinking.
Built against the backdrop of ancient architecture, Bhimlat Kund showcases intricate carvings and reflects the engineering prowess of its era. The kund not only serves as a serene spot within the fort but also holds cultural importance with its association with Hindu mythology.
Suraj Pole
Suraj Pole is a striking gateway within the formidable Chittorgarh Fort. Literally translating to “Sun Gate,” Suraj Pole is one of the main entry points into the fort complex. Constructed with meticulous craftsmanship, this gate bears witness to the historical events that unfolded within the fort’s walls.
The gate was built by Maharana Kumbha in the 15th century, and gets its name for its orientation towards the east, where the sun rises. Suraj Pole not only served as a defensive fortification but also welcomed dignitaries and royalty into the grandeur of Chittorgarh.
Tower of Fame
The Tower of Fame, also known as Kirti Stambha, is a remarkable structure which symbolizes the valor and achievements of the Rajputana rulers. Erected in the 12th century by a Jain merchant named Jijaji Rathod, this tower is a testament to Jain architecture and craftsmanship.
Standing at a height of 22 meters and adorned with intricate carvings, the Tower of Fame is a seven-story marvel. The carvings depict scenes from Jain mythology and the life of Adinatha, the first Jain Tirthankara. The tower serves as a dedication to the Jain principles of non-violence and righteousness.
Jain Temple of Adinath
The Jain Adinath Temple, situated right next to the Tower of Fame, stands as a sacred haven of Jain worship and architectural brilliance. Dedicated to Adinatha, the first Jain Tirthankara, this temple exemplifies the rich tradition of Jainism in the region.
The Jain Temple of Adinath was constructed in the 11th century and it showcases the intricate craftsmanship and artistic finesse typical of Jain architecture. The temple complex includes ornate pillars, sculpted ceilings, and intricately carved statues depicting scenes from Jain mythology.
Rana Ratan Singh Palace
Rana Ratan Singh Palace was constructed as a tribute to Maharana Ratan Singh. This palace serves as a testament to the valor and architectural brilliance of the Rajput rulers, and it was adorned with intricate carvings and Rajput-style architecture.
Today, the palace is in ruins, and it’s not included in the typical guided tours. You can still visit it on your own, or ask your guide to include it.
Best Tips for Visiting
Read before going. Chittorgarh Fort, witness to historic events, has been a battlefield through the ages. It’s one of those places that require a good understanding to truly appreciate what you’ll see.
Pick the best time. The Fort of Chittorgarh is quite exposed and without many shaded areas. Trust us, it’s not fun to visit it in the central hours of the day, especially during the hottest months.
Find an official guide. Stay away from scams and avoid improvised guides. Official guides have fixed rates and – most importantly – are well prepared to guide you through the Fort. Chittorgarh Fort isn’t just buildings; grasping its importance requires knowing the compelling history that unfolds within its walls.
Explore on your own: Seek out the lesser-known corners, where the ancient walls seem to share untold stories. Allow some time to step away from the main pathways.
Hidden Temples: Discover the smaller, less-visited temples within the fort. There are several temples which aren’t included in the official tours, each with its own unique charm and history.
Evening Show: Return in the evening to witness the fort bathed in sound and light show, offering a different ambiance compared to the daylight hours.
Consider visiting as a day trip: If you’re planning to visit Udaipur, consider visiting the Chittorgarh Fort as a day trip. You can do so either by car or by public transport. You can also stop at Ahar Cenotaphs on the way.
Chittorgarh Fort Opening Time
The Chittorgarh Fort is open from 9AM to 5PM. However, it’s essential to note that opening hours can be subject to change, and it’s always a good idea to verify the current schedule before planning your visit.
Best Time to Visit
The months between October and March are generally considered the most favorable to visit Chittorgarh Fort. During this period, the weather is relatively pleasant, with cooler temperatures making it more comfortable for exploring the fort.
The summer months (April to June) can be quite hot, so be prepared if you plan on visiting during this time.
Keep in mind that local events, festivals, and holidays can also impact the accessibility and crowd levels at tourist attractions. It’s recommended to check for any special events or closures that might affect your visit.
Services at Chittorgarh Fort
The facilities available inside the fort may be limited compared to more modern tourist destinations.
Inside the fort, you might find small local vendors or stalls selling snacks and beverages. These could include items like bottled water, packaged snacks, or local refreshments. However, the options may be limited, so it’s a good idea to carry some water and snacks with you, especially if you plan to spend an extended period exploring the fort.
Restroom facilities within the historical site of Chittorgarh Fort are limited and quite basic. There might be public toilets or facilities provided by local shops or bars. For added comfort during your visit to Chittorgarh, having a few personal essentials on hand might be a good idea.
Sound and Light Show at Chittorgarh Fort
Experience Chittorgarh’s vibrant history in the sound and light show, reminiscent of the famous Amber Fort presentation. From King Chitrangada’s 6th-century quest for a secure capital to Bappa Rawal’s valor against Arab invaders, the show encapsulates Chittaur’s essence.
Queen Padmini’s tales, Meera’s devotion, and Rana Kumbha’s versatility add depth to the narrative. The show is bilingual (Hindi and English) and it uses cutting-edge technology.
It is Held at Kumbha Palace in Chittorgarh Fort, every day from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The entry fee is 50 INR ($0.60 USD) for adults and 25 INR ($0.60 USD) for children.
Note: Offseason show availability may vary.
