Chittorgarh Fort

Chittorgarh Fort has received the credit of being the largest fort of India. The massive fort is located on a high hill near the Gambheri River in Chittorgarh. Chittorgarh Fort lies at a distance of 112 kms from the city of Udaipur in Rajasthan. This fort was built by various Maurya rulers in the 7th century. This huge fort covers an area of 700 acres, extending to 3 kms in length and 13 kms in peripheral length. Standing on an elevated hill of 180m, the impregnable fort has witnessed three battles.

Chittaurgarh Fort is truly an embodiment of chivalry and pride of the Rajputs. The fort has a long story of romance, courage, determination and sacrifice. A glimpse of the fort still makes one to think the glory of the Rajputs who once lived here. The imposing Fort boasts of well-designed palaces, magnificent cenotaphs and huge towers. The Fort of Chittorgarh has a colossal structure that is secured by its several strong gateways.

Chittorgarh Fort is an acknowledgement to the courage of the gallant Rajput rulers who sacrificed their life combating dominant rivals instead of surrendering before them. The history of this majestic fort can be traced during the time of Khilji's. Chittorgarh Fort is said to have been the capital of the Gahlot and Sisodia kings who ruled Mewar between the eighth and the sixteenth century. The Fort was named after Chittrangad Maurya.

The fort was attacked three times and every time it got saved by the daring heroism of the Rajput warriors. In 1303, for the first time, this fort was attacked by Allaudin Khilji to fulfill his desire to make off with Rani Padmini. For the second time, the Fort was sacked by Sultan Bahadur Shah of Gujarat in 1535. In 1567, it was attacked for the last time by Mughal Emperor Akbar to conquer Maharana Udai Singh. Every time, a jauhar (mass suicide) was observed and the womenfolk of the Royalty never submitted themselves.

This colossal fort is accessible through seven huge gates (Pols) that are comprised of strong iron spikes and served as a watch tower in earlier times. The way to Chittorgarh Fort will take you through crisscross paths that would be interrupted at intervals by seven giant pols (gateways). The foremost gate you will come across is the 'Ram Pol' (the gate of Lord Rama) that has a temple in its vicinity. While climbing further, you would find two cenotaphs near Padal Pol. These cenotaphs are dedicated to Jaimal and Kala, who were killed by Akbar in the battle of 1567.

Chittorgarh Fort History
It is believed that the name Chittorgarh is derived from its builder Chitranga, who was the ruler of a local clan that identified themselves as Mauryas or Moris. Another folktale credits the construction of the fort to Bhima, who struck the ground and helped the Bhimlat Kund to surface. Several small Buddhist stupas dated to 9th century have also been discovered at the edge of Jaimal Patta lake.
The Chittorgarh Fort is a treasure trove of history and a saga of bravery, courage and sacrifice. It was captured three times between the 15th and 16th centuries. In 1303, Allauddin Khilji defeated Rana Ratan Singh, in 1535, Bahadur Shah defeated Bikramjeet Singh, and in 1567, Akbar defeated Maharana Udai Singh II. The Rajputs fought with bravery, yet they lost every time. Following these defeats in the wars, 'Jauhar' or mass self-immolation was committed by more than 13,000 ladies and children of the soldiers who laid their lives in the battle. It was led by Rani Padmini, wife of Rana Rattan Singh, who was killed in the first battle. The Chittorgarh Fort is a tribute to nationalism and sacrifice.

Best Time To Visit Chittorgarh Fort
The months of October - March is the best time to visit the fort. Mornings and evening are cooler and less crowded.

How To Reach Chittorgarh Fort
Chittorgarh is located at a distance of 112 km from Udaipur, on an elevated slope near the Ganbheri River in Rajasthan. The most convenient way of reaching the fort is either by taking a bus or hiring a taxi from Udaipur city.