If you are a history buff or a lover of architectural marvels, then the Chittorgarh Fort in Rajasthan, India, should be on your must-visit list. This imposing fortress, perched atop a hill, is one of the largest in India and has a rich history that dates back centuries. This article will take you on a virtual tour of the Chittorgarh Fort and explore the many monuments and structures that make it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

History of the Chittorgarh Fort 

The Chittorgarh Fort, also known as Chittor Fort, was built in the 7th century AD by the Mauryans. Over the centuries, it was captured and recaptured by various rulers, including the Mughals and the Rajputs. The fort's most famous period came during the reign of the Rajputs, who made it their stronghold and built many of the structures that still stand today. 

The Seven Gates of Chittorgarh Fort 

One of the most striking features of the Chittorgarh Fort is its seven gates, each named after a different virtue. These gates were built to protect the fortress and its inhabitants from invaders. The seven gates are: 

1. Padan Pol - The Gate of the Beginning 
2. Bhairon Pol - The Gate of Valor 
3. Hanuman Pol - The Gate of Strength 
4. Ganesh Pol - The Gate of Prosperity 
5. Jorla Pol - The Gate of the Levee 
6. Laxman Pol - The Gate of Grace 
7. Ram Pol - The Gate of Lord Rama 

Monuments and Structures Within the Fort 

The Chittorgarh Fort is home to many impressive structures, including palaces, temples, and towers. Here are some of the most notable ones: 

Vijay Stambh 

Also known as the Tower of Victory, this 9-story tower was built by the Rajput king, Rana Kumbha, to celebrate his victory over the Muslim rulers of Malwa and Gujarat. The tower is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures and is a symbol of the fort's military might. 

Kirti Stambh 

The Kirti Stambh, or Tower of Fame, is a 22-meter high tower that was built by a Jain merchant in the 12th century. The tower is dedicated to the Jain saint, Adinath, and is adorned with carvings of Jain deities. 

Rana Kumbha Palace 

The Rana Kumbha Palace was built in the 15th century and was the residence of the Rajput king, Rana Kumbha. The palace has many impressive features, including underground chambers, a throne room, and a tower from which the king could survey his kingdom. 

Padmini Palace 

The Padmini Palace is one of the most famous structures within the Chittorgarh Fort. It was the residence of Queen Padmini, who is said to have been so beautiful that she caused a war between the Rajputs and the Mughals. The palace is situated on the banks of a pond and is a prime example of Rajput architecture. 

Meera Temple 

The Meera Temple is a beautiful temple dedicated to the Hindu saint, Meera Bai. The temple has intricate carvings and is a popular destination for pilgrims. 

Chittorgarh Fort Heritage Tour 

Visiting the Chittorgarh Fort is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Rajasthan. A heritage tour of the fort will take you on a journey through the history and architecture of the fortress. The tour The tour will begin at the Padan Pol gate, where you will be greeted by the imposing structure and the intricate carvings on it. As you walk through the seven gates, your guide will regale you with stories of the fort's history and the brave Rajput warriors who fought to defend it. 

Next, you will visit the Vijay Stambh and the Kirti Stambh, two towers that are prime examples of the fort's architecture and grandeur. You will learn about the stories behind their construction and the significance they hold in Rajput history. 

The tour will also take you to the Rana Kumbha Palace, where you will explore the underground chambers, the throne room, and the tower from which the king could survey his kingdom. You will feel transported back in time as you walk through the halls of the palace and imagine what life would have been like for the Rajput rulers who lived there. 

Another highlight of the tour is the Padmini Palace, where you will learn about the legend of Queen Padmini and her beauty. The palace is situated on the banks of a pond and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. 

The Meera Temple is another must-visit destination within the Chittorgarh Fort. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu saint, Meera Bai, and is a beautiful example of Rajput architecture. You will marvel at the intricate carvings and the stunning artwork on display. 

How to Reach the Chittorgarh Fort 

The Chittorgarh Fort is located in the city of Chittorgarh, in the state of Rajasthan, India. The nearest airport is in Udaipur, which is about 100 kilometers away. The fort is well-connected by road and can be reached by bus or taxi from major cities in Rajasthan. 

How to reach Chittorgarh Fort heritage tour by air and nearest airport? 

The nearest airport to Chittorgarh Fort is the Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur, which is located approximately 90 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Chittorgarh Fort. 

Alternatively, you can also fly into the Jaipur International Airport, which is located approximately 310 km away from Chittorgarh Fort. From Jaipur, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Chittorgarh Fort. 

How to reach Chittorgarh Fort heritage tour by train and nearest railway station? 

Chittorgarh Fort is a popular heritage site located in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan, India. To reach Chittorgarh Fort by train, you can take a train to the nearest railway station, which is the Chittorgarh Railway Station. 

The Chittorgarh Railway Station is well-connected to major cities in India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Udaipur. Some of the popular trains that run to Chittorgarh Railway Station are Mewar Express, Chetak Express, and Chittaurgarh Express. 

From the Chittorgarh Railway Station, you can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach Chittorgarh Fort, which is located around 7 km away from the station. The journey takes approximately 20 minutes. 

It is recommended to check the train timings and availability beforehand and plan your trip accordingly. 

FAQs 

What is the best time to visit the Chittorgarh Fort?

The best time to visit the Chittorgarh Fort is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant. 

Is the Chittorgarh Fort wheelchair accessible?

Parts of the fort are wheelchair accessible, but some areas may be challenging to navigate due to the fort's uneven terrain and steep steps. 

Are there any restaurants near the Chittorgarh Fort?

Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes near the fort that offer a variety of cuisines. 

How long does a heritage tour of the Chittorgarh Fort take?

A heritage tour of the Chittorgarh Fort usually takes around 2-3 hours, depending on the pace of the tour. 

Is photography allowed within the Chittorgarh Fort?

Yes, photography is allowed within the Chittorgarh Fort, but some areas may have restrictions or require a special permit.