Chittorgarh Fort situated at Chittorgarh in the state of Rajasthan is known as the largest fort of India. This fort used to be the capital of Mewar and was ruled by Guhilot, Sisodias, Suryavanshi clans until it was abandoned after the siege by Emperor Akbar.

Chittorgarh Fort, Mewar History :

Rani Padmini's Water Palace

It is spread over a hill (area of 280 ha and height 180 m) above the plains of valley. Chittorgarh Fort is quite famous all over the world and is constantly visited by many tourists throughout the year. The Chittorgarh Fort has been sacked thrice between 15^th and 16^th centuries. The great Rajput Warriors and their women sacrificed their lives giving a fine example of courage, nationalism and medieval chivalry.

Allaudin Khilji obsessed with desire to capture Rani Padmini, rallied his forces against Mewar in 1303 AD. The Chittorgarh Fort was impregnable and all efforts of Allaudin Khilji were futile. Khilji sent a request through his messenger to Rana Ratan Singh that if he allowed Khilji to view image of Rani Padmini, he will stop the siege and return back to Delhi.

Rana agreed to his request and allowed him to view Padmini through a set of mirrors.  After fulfilling Khilji’s request Rana accompanied him to outer gate, but Rana was double-crossed and captured by Khilji’s men. Somehow the brave soldiers of Rana managed to rescue him and took him to the fort. This followed with a fierce battle and finally Rana was killed and the Rajputs lost the battle to Khilji’s men. This followed with the royal Rajput ladies led by Rani Padmini to perform Jauhar (self immolation on a pyre).

The Tower of Victory (Vijay Stambh) is a popular tourist attraction in Chittorgarh Fort. It was built by Maharana Kumbha in 1440 AD in order to commemorate his victory over Mohammed Khilji. It is a 9-storyed tower with steps leading to terrace with balconies. Other monuments and sites of concern for tourists are Gaumukh reservoir, Read the rest of this entry »

Chittorgarh is a world famous tourist destination with impressive forts, magnificent royal buildings and ruined castles. It used to be one of the most influential cities in Rajput Kingdom and has witnessed many battles since ancient times. The rich history and eventful great past of this city has attracted many tourists from all over the globe. These days Chittorgarh tourism is promoted by many travel agencies and tour operators.

Victory towerÂ

Places of sightseeing Near Chittorgarh:

• Sanwariyaji Temple (Lord Krishna Temple): Located at Chittorgarh-Udaipur highway, Sanwariyaji temple is an important pilgrimage spot. This temple is famous for its beautiful architecture and huge donations.
• Nagri: Nagri is at 7 km distance from Bassi on Bundi-Chittorgarh highway. Formerly known as Madhyamika, it is known to be one of the oldest towns in Rajasthan. Remains of Buddhist and Hindu influence have been excavated here.
• Chittorgarh Fort: It is one of the most popular places of visit at Chittorgarh. This site has been one of the main reasons for
  Chittorgarh tourism to flourish. Known for its rich history and sacrifices of its brave Rajput men and women, Chittorgarh Fort has attracted many tourists from all over the world.
• Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary: Spread over an area of 50 sq. Km, Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary is home to many exotic species of wildlife such as wild boars, mongoose, panthers, antelopes and migratory birds. You have to obtain permit from District Forest Officer, Chittorgarh before making a visit to this place.
• Deogarh: This is a 16^th century fort situated near Pratapgarh and is famous for its palaces and Jain temples.
• Menal: Menal is situated amidst natural beauty and is famous for its waterfall, ancient Shiva temples and dense forests. Site like Menal present a complete different aspect of Chittorgarh Tourism.
• Bijaipur: Bijaipur is a castle which is now converted into a heritage hotel. It was built by Rao Shakti Singh who was the younger brother of Maharana Pratap.
• Mandalgarh: The fort of Mandalgarh is famous for many fierce battles fought during medieval times. It is an oldest fort in Rajasthan and is believed to be built by a chief of the Balnote Clan of Rajputs.

In the eighth century, Bappa Rawal received Chittor as a dowry. It was basically a long hill (seven miles), with several temples, palaces, fortifications and towers. The descendants of Bappa Rawal ruled Mewar for almost eight centuries. Chittor was considered to be impregnable, but was attacked three times by the invaders. The battle of Chittorgarh is one of the significant historical events of India, which gives the account of the Rajputs putting up a heroic fight till their death.

Historical Battle of Chittorgarh :

Chittorgarh

Allauddin Khilji was the Sultan of Delhi in 1303. He had heard about the exceptional beauty of Padmini, the queen of Mewar. Led by the desire to possess her, Allauddin decided to siege the fort of Chittor. On 28^th January he invaded the Rajput stronghold and surrounded Chittor. A message was sent to Rana Rattan Singh. It was told in this message that the Allauddin would lift the siege if he could meet Padmini.

Rana Rattan Singh agreed to a point that Allauddin could look upon the reflection of queen in the mirror. Finally the sultan was able to see the reflection of Padmini’s face and was later accompanied by Rana Rattan Singh out of the fort. But in a very treacherous manner the Sultan’s men took Rana hostage, which resulted into a battle.

Somehow the Rana’s men managed to rescue him, but till then 7,000 brave Rajput warriors have died. The defeat was unavoidable and surrender was unthinkable in all regards. Therefore the brave rani, and the wives of soldiers and generals performed jauhar to save their honor. Their men fought gallantly to the enemies and sacrificed their lives for Chittor. This is how the battle of Chittor ended. After the victory of Chittor, Allauddin appointed his son Khizar Khan as its Governor and changed the name of this place to Khizrabad. Read the rest of this entry »