Rajasthan hoards beautiful cities, rich culture, and magnificent heritage properties that invite people from all over the world every year. We recently saw Dua Lipa spend her New Year in the magical city of Jaipur, and though we also love and cherish the city as much (you can check out our complete guide here), we want to put the spotlight on the lesser-known but equally as rich and spectacular city of the state, i.e., Chittorgarh. The city is known for its honey-coloured Chittorgarh Fort, built in the 7th century, and is the most important historical space that paved the state's trajectory. The city has many other forts, temples, palaces, and kunds that are worth admiring and take you back in time, where you get a glimpse of the royal life, battles fought, and history reimagined. It is a definite must-visit in Rajasthan, and here are eight places in Chittorgarh that should be on your itinerary for sightseeing.
8 Sightseeing Places In Chittorgarh To Dive Deeper Into Its History
Chittorgarh Fort
We have to start with the most important property of Chittorgarh, which is Chittorgarh Fort. It is a UNESCO heritage site and was the capital of Mewar back in the day. It is the largest fort in all of Asia, captured three times from the strongholds of Rajputs. The fort relays many reimaginings of conquests and victories but also harbours a dark past and stands as the place where Jauhar was committed by Queen Padmini and hundreds of other women who gave their lives to protect the patriarchally constructed idea of honour.
Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM (open all days)
Entry Fee: INR 50 for adults
Vijay Stambh
Vijay Stampha is within the Chittorgarh Fort premises, constructed by King Rana Kumbha of Mewar. It is essentially a tower of victory to commemorate Rana Kumbha's triumph over Mahmud Khilji in the Battle of Sarangpur. You can see the detailed genealogy of the victors of Chittor through the inscriptions. It symbolizes the religious pluralism embraced by the Rajputs, with the top tier featuring the Jain Goddess. The emblem may also be familiar to you from Indian postal stamps.
Timings: 9 AM - 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Kalika Mata Temple
Kalika Mata Temple is also located inside Chittorgarh Fort and dates back to the eighth century. Originally a sun temple, the structure around the temple endured damage and destruction through numerous conquests. Partial reconstruction took place during the reign of Rana Kumbha.
Timings: 6 AM - 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Padmini Palace
Established in the 19th century, Padmini Palace is a three-story white marble building known as Queen Padmini's residence. The popular story surrounding the palace is that this is where Aladdin Khilji saw a reflection of Rani Padmini through the water and vowed to conquer Chittor to 'claim' her. You can see a surreal view of Chittorgarh Fort from here.
Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM
Entry Fee: INR 10
Rana Kumbha Palace
The impact of Rana Kumbha on Chittorgarh's history is undeniable, which is why a visit to his palace is a must on your Chittorgarh itinerary. Inside, you can catch a glimpse of Zanana Mahal, Diwan-e-Aam, and the surrounding horse stables. Legend has it that Maharana Udai Singh, the founder of Udaipur, was born here. Additionally, it was the home of the legendary poetess Meerabai.
Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM
Entry Fee: INR 20
Fateh Prakash Palace
Fateh Prakash Palace stands out distinctly from the rest of Chittorgarh's architecture. Built during the reign of Rana Fateh Singh, it has numerous windows and corridors built in Rajasthani style, showcasing paintings dating back to the 17th and 19th centuries. Rana Fateh Singh loved collecting art and artefacts so much that the palace was converted into a museum full of crystals, sculptures, and unique items of the 17th century.
Timings: 9:45 AM - 4:45 PM
Entry Fee: INR 10
Gaumukh Reservoir
Gaumukh Reservoir is one of the 84 reservoirs that were originally part of the Chittorgarh plan. While the area was once covered with numerous water bodies, only 22 of them remain today. The reservoir derives its name from the shape of its opening, resembling a cow's mouth, and is considered a natural spring. Throughout various battles, the reservoir provided a vital source of survival for many inhabitants and families who sought refuge in its vicinity.
Timings: 9 AM - 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary
Nestled at the confluence of the Aravalli mountain range, Vindhyachal hills, and Malwa plateau, Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary guards over a hundred species of protected flora and fauna. Home to nearly 130 varieties of migratory birds and a diverse range of mammals including flying squirrels, Bengal foxes, spotted deer, and panthers, this sanctuary offers an exciting excursion, particularly enjoyable for families.
Timings: 5 AM - 6 PM
Price: INR 20
