12 Sightseeing Places In Chittorgarh To Dive Deeper Into History

207 Interested |
4.2K  Views

Rajasthan is home to stunning cities, rich culture, and magnificent heritage properties that attract visitors from around the world each year. Recently, Dua Lipa celebrated her New Year in the magical city of Jaipur. While we love and cherish Jaipur (check out our complete guide here), we want to shine a spotlight on the lesser-known but equally rich and spectacular city of Chittorgarh.

Known for its honey-coloured Chittorgarh Fort, built in the 7th century, this city is a crucial historical site that has shaped the state's trajectory. Chittorgarh boasts many other forts, temples, palaces, and kunds worth admiring, offering a glimpse into the royal life, battles fought, and reimagined history. It’s a must-visit destination in Rajasthan. Here are 12 sightseeing spots in Chittorgarh that should be on your itinerary.

How To Reach: The nearest airport to Chittorgarh is Dabok Airport in Udaipur. Chittorgarh Railway Station is also well-connected to major cities.

Best Time to Visit: We recommend visiting Chittorgarh from October to March when the weather is more pleasant.

Best Market to Visit: Sadar Bazaar is the most famous market in Chittorgarh, offering a variety of fabrics, camel leather products, metal wares, jewelry, toys, and more.

Chittorgarh Fort

First off the list of places to visit in chittorgarh is undoubtedly the most significant site in Chittorgarh: Chittorgarh Fort. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was once the capital of Mewar and is the largest fort in Asia, having been captured three times from the Rajputs. The fort embodies tales of conquests and victories but also harbors a dark history, notably as the location where Queen Padmini and hundreds of other women committed Jauhar to protect the patriarchal notion of honor. It is undoubtedly one of the top Chittorgarh tourist attractions. 

Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM (open all days)

Entry Fee: INR 50 for adults

Vijay Stambh

Vijay Stambh, located within the Chittorgarh Fort premises, was constructed by King Rana Kumbha of Mewar. This tower of victory commemorates Rana Kumbha's triumph over Mahmud Khalji in the Battle of Sarangpur. The inscriptions detail the genealogy of Chittor's victors and symbolise the religious pluralism embraced by the Rajputs, with the top tier featuring the Jain Goddess. You may also recognise this emblem from Indian postal stamps.

Timings: 9 AM - 6 PM

Entry Fee: Free 

Kalika Mata Temple

If you are looking for some spirituality in this list of Chittorgarh tourist attractions, you must visit Kalika Mata Temple, also located within Chittorgarh Fort, which dates back to the eighth century. Originally a sun temple, the structure has endured significant damage and destruction over numerous conquests. Partial reconstruction occurred during the reign of Rana Kumbha.

Timings: 6 AM - 8 PM 

Entry Fee: Free

Padmini Palace

You cannot miss this historic site among the many places to visit in Chittorgarh. Established in the 19th century, Padmini Palace is a three-story white marble building known as the residence of Queen Padmini. The popular story surrounding the palace is that this is where Alauddin Khalji first saw a reflection of Rani Padmini in the water and vowed to conquer Chittor to 'claim' her. From here, you can enjoy a stunning view of Chittorgarh Fort.

Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM 

Entry Fee: INR 10

Rana Kumbha Palace

The impact of Rana Kumbha on Chittorgarh's history is undeniable, making this a must-visit Chittorgarh tourist attractions. Inside, you can explore Zanana Mahal, Diwan-e-Aam, and the surrounding horse stables. Legend has it that Maharana Udai Singh, the founder of Udaipur, was born here, and it was also 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 among Chittorgarh's architecture. Built during the reign of Rana Fateh Singh, it features numerous windows and corridors in the Rajasthani style, showcasing paintings from the 17th and 19th centuries. Rana Fateh Singh's passion for collecting art and artifacts led to the palace being converted into a museum filled with crystals, sculptures, and unique items from the 17th century.

Timings: 9:45 AM - 4:45 PM

Entry Fee: INR 10

Gaumukh Reservoir

Gaumukh Reservoir is one of the 84 reservoirs originally part of the Chittorgarh plan. While the area was once dotted with numerous water bodies, only 22 remain today. The reservoir gets its name from the shape of its opening, which resembles a cow's mouth, and is considered a natural spring. Throughout various battles, it served as a vital source of survival for many inhabitants and families seeking refuge nearby.

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 is home to over a hundred species of protected flora and fauna. It hosts 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, making it particularly enjoyable for families.

Timings: 5 AM - 6 PM

Price: INR 20

Kirti Stambha, Sailana

This 12th-century tower inspired the creation of Vijay Stambh and is a remarkable sight, steeped in fascinating historical tales. Kirti Stambh was established to commemorate Rana Kumbha's victory in 1448. Built in Solanki-style architecture, it features intricate carvings and heroic narratives, making it a must-visit sightseeing spot in Chittorgarh.

Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM (open all days)

Entry Fee: INR 50 for adults

Menal

We recommend setting aside a day for Menal, a village in Begun Taluk in the Chittorgarh district. Its main attractions are the stunning Menal Waterfalls and the Menal Shiv Mandir, both of which offer a mesmerising experience. Here, you can explore a variety of sites while embracing the charm of slow living in all its authenticity.

Mandal Garh Fort

Located in the Bhilwara district, Mandal Garh Fort boasts a rich history and heritage tied to Rajasthan. Captured twice by Mahmud Khalji in the 15th century, this fort alternately belonged to the Ranas of Mewar and the Mughal emperors. The architecture and demographics of the area are absolutely fascinating, making it a must-visit site in Chittorgarh.

Timings: Open 24 hours

Samadhisvara Mahadev Temple

Dedicated to the 'Lord of Samadhi,' an aspect of Lord Shiva, this temple was originally constructed in the 11th century and rebuilt in the 13th century. Located within the expansive landscape of Chittorgarh Fort, it offers a serene space for visitors to pay their respects and pray.

Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM (open all days)

Entry Fee: INR 50 for adults 

img-user-nitika-yadav-651472295200
258 Followers

A literature post-graduate, with over a year of experience in all things content, and loves writing about fashion, pop-culture, and academia.