Chittorgarh – home to the largest fort in India

Author: Sandeep Kumar

If you are a history buff, Chittorgarh is an ideal destination to visit on your holidays. It is a historic city home to a great past and some exquisite Chittorgarh places to visit.

Chittorgarh is one of the most popular places in Rajasthan. It is a small city and a district in the state and houses the headquarters of the eponymous district. The small city sits on the banks of river Berach and Gambhiri and is most noted for the largest Fort in India, called Chittorgarh Fort. It is a historic city which was the capital of Mewar Kingdom under the Sisodia Dynasty. The place is most famous for its glorious history and the remnants of the bygone era that today dot the place. Today, it is a growing hub of education. There are a number of schools imparting quality education to the young children. Besides, lately there have been establishments of a couple of engineering, management, and medical institutions and colleges. The place is a significant part of the state. It is popular as a chief centre of culture and also for its colorful festivals, folklore, legends, dance, and music.

Chittorgarh or Chittor, as it is often known, is also an ideal holiday destination, particularly if you are a history buff and love exploring the medieval era structures. There are some exquisite places of sightseeing, each being unique, interesting, and a great history attached to them. Not only that, the place has a bewitching charm about it that beckons backpackers to visit it again and again. Some of the significant Chittorgarh places to visit that are a must-see include:

Chittorgarh Fort – It is a grand fort (the largest one in India) and the most dominant attraction of the place. Built atop a hill which is about 180 meters high, the fort is a simply stunning. It is a popular and an impregnable fort with housing a number of old buildings and monuments. The main attractions to see here are Kirti Stambh, Vijay Stambh, Rani Padmini’s Palace, and Fateh Prakash Palace. The palaces in particular exhibit the plush and luxurious lifestyle of the kings and queens and are simply a treat to the eyes.

Kumbha Shyam Temple – It is a temple of Lord Vishnu and a proof that the past rulers of the place were ardent devotees of the God. The original temple structure was built in the 8th century and was later renovated in the 15th century under the guidance of Maharana Kumbha, after whom the temple is named. It is a quiet place and locals come here to worship the lord.

Fateh Prakash Palace – It is now a museum that houses numerous historical relics and remnants of the temple and the buildings within the Fort. Built by Maharana Fateh Singh and also named after him, the palace is large and ornamented with stunning frescos. There is a beautiful fountain and a big idol of Lord Ganesha. This one is a must-visit!

Tower of Fame – Built in the 12th century A.D and 22 meters in height, the Tower of Fame is a large tower that is dedicated to Lord Sri Adinath Rishabh Deo, the first Jain Tirthankar. It is easily visible, even from a distance and counts amongst the most popular monuments. Its base is 30 feet and the structure tapers towards the top. There is also an imperial of the Tirthakar in front of the tower. It is five feet in height and a fine work of art.