Chittorgarh is a proud symbol of Rajput valor, sacrifice and grandeur and is situated in the southern area of Rajasthan. Chittorgarh is the home of India’s biggest fort, which hosts quite a few legends of heroism and a great, sorrowful history, as well as stunning architecture and blooming culture.

Top Things to do in Chittorgarh    

Fabled in legends of Rani Padmini and Maharana Ris Aaj Tha of its historic charm, this ancient city holds every traveller captive. Here is the best things do in Chittorgarh:

Explore the Magnificent Chittorgarh Fort

Chittorgarh Fort is the heartbeat of the city which is not just a monument but a living legend. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this fort was built spanning over 700 acres over the hill and is the largest fort in India and perhaps the most historically important.

The fort was subject to many sieges and battles and it remains a symbol of Rajput pride and resistance. Within the fort, palaces, temples, towers and reservoirs can be explored. Some key highlights include:

Rana Kumbha Palace: The oldest palace within the fort complex.

Padmini Palace: Associated with the legendary Queen Padmini.

Vijay Stambh (Victory Tower): Vijay Stambh (Victory Tower) was a fantastic nine storeys high tower erected by Rana Kumbha in celebration of his victory over the Sultan of Malwa.

Kirti Stambh (Tower of Fame): Kirti Stambh (Tower of Fame), celebrates the first Tirthankara.

Forth walls, its massive gates and impressive ruins come to life from here while walking around the fort and provide a glimpse of Rajasthan’s valorous past.

Visit the Romantic Padmini Palace

Padmini Palace is a palace located within the Chittorgarh Fort and it is famous because it is associated with the beautiful Queen Padmini. It is said that her reflection in a mirror here was seen by Alauddin Khilji and that he was so obsessed that he came to besiege Chittorgarh.

Simply yet charming is the appearance of the palace surrounded by a lotus pool. However, what combines together to produce a poignant experience is the serene environment with respect to the palace’s tragic history.

See the Grandeur of Vijay Stambh

One of the most celebrated symbols of Rajput pride is the Vijay Stambh, or the Victory Tower. The tower is 37 metres in height and intricately carved with images of Hindu gods and goddesses and was built by Maharana Kumbha in the 15th century after his victory over Mahmud Khilji.

The narrow stairway inside the tower allows the visitors to climb up and get a panoramic view of the fort complex and plains around it. Although it’s a bit of a climb it’s worth absolutely the effort!

Admire the Spiritual Kirti Stambh

The Kirti Stambh, or Tower of Fame, is a Jain tower dedicated to the first Jain Tirthankara, Adinath, the first Jain Tirthankara. It is seven stories. The temple was built in the 12th century and is decorated with beautiful sculptors of Jain saints and intricate carvings.

Religious harmony and the two splendidly rich sculptural traditions of the region are reflected in the tower. It’s a place of peace in which you can look at beautifully detailed art and relax amidst a calm area.

At Kalika Mata Temple in Kathmandu, participants seek Blessings for safe proceedings

There are numerous temples inside the Chittorgarh Fort, out of which the Kalika Mata Temple is one of the most important. At first a Sun Temple in the 8th century, then a temple of Goddess Kali.

The temple has beautiful architecture and many devotees from every corner of the world come here for pilgrimage. Navratri celebrations will surely fill you up with the spiritual vibe, which is just remarkable.

If you will then discover the fascinating history of Rana Kumbha Palace

The Rana Kumbha palace was one of the most important structures inside the fort and was like the palace of the royal family. The ruins of the palace hint at its former grandeur, with huge courtyards, temples, and stables.

It is said that Rani Padmini made Jauhar (self immolation) with hundreds of women here to save their honour from invaders. It is a solemn reminder of such a sacrifice and bravery.

Experience the Light and sound show at the Chittorgarh Fort

The Chittorgarh Fort provides a Light and Sound Show in the evening that brings history to life. The show is narrated using powerful storytelling and many dramatic lighting effects, telling the stories of heroism, of sacrifice, and of chivalry associated with the fort.

Very emotional and informative, a lot more context to everything you have explored today. Definitely not to be missed!

Relax at Gaumukh Reservoir

Deep inside the fort complex is the peaceful Gaumukh Reservoir, a holy water tank that receives water from a natural spring. The name of the reservoir derives from a stone cows mouth (gaumukh) from where water sups.

Many pilgrims bathe here before they come to the temples. Gaumukh Reservoir is situated amid ancient stone structures and lush greenery and makes a good place to rest and reflect.

Visit Meera Temple

Meera Temple is dedicated to the poet saint Meera Bai, devotional and of historical significance. Among these, Meera, a Rajput princess and a devotee of Lord Krishna, wrote several devotional songs which are still sung.

The temple is very beautifully architected and Meera’s undying devotion to the ‘beloved’ enhances the spiritual feel to it. History, spirit or music interested people must visit there.

Explore Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary

Situated at around 25 km from Chittorgarh, Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary is a nice break from exploring historical places. Covering 15,000 hectares, this sanctuary is where panthers, wild boars, antelopes, among other wildlife, flourish, and there are also a number of birds inhabiting it.

Nature walks, birdwatching and even finding some discreet animals if you are lucky. Orai and Bassi lakes of the sanctuary make for excellent picnics.

Stroll Around Sathis Deori Temple

Another spiritual and architectural marvel was the group of Jain temples south of the fort – the Sathis Deori Temple, a cluster of Jain temples within the Chittorgarh Fort. These temples date back all the way to the 11th century and are known for their stone carvings and peaceful surroundings.

Not only are these temples one of the best places for a spiritual retreat, visiting them also allows you to admire the best of ancient artistry.

Shop for Local Handicrafts

You can buy a lot of traditional Rajasthani handicraft in Chittorgarh’s bustling markets. You can shop for:

- Colorful leheriya sarees

- Hand-embroidered fabrics

- Traditional jewelry

- Miniature paintings

- Wooden toys and crafts

Other areas include Rana Sanga Market and Fort Road Market which are the main shopping areas. Here, shopping is not merely to acquire souvenirs, rather, it involves an element of the purchase of vibrancy of Rajasthan's culture.

Savor Traditional Rajasthani Cuisine

And you simply need to taste the local flavors if you are in Chittorgarh. Make sure you try:

Dal Baati Churma: The quintessential Rajasthani meal.

Gatte ki Sabzi: Gram flour dumplings cooked in a spicy yogurt curry is Gatte ki Sabzi.

Laal Maas: A spicy mutton for the spice lovers it is.

Ker Sangri: A traditional desert vegetable dish.

Rajasthani sweets: Like ghevar, mawa kachori, and malpua.

Authentic home-style Rajasthani thalis are served by many local eateries, and you will definitely want to have more.

Conclusion: 

Chittorgarh is an emotion in feeling of pride and sacrifice and eternal beauty. All the fort walls, ruined palace, temple, and monument cry tales of courage and loyalty. Regardless of whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, a spiritual seeker or just a curious traveller Chittorgarh has an experience that you would not find anywhere else.

Holding stories of valour, sacrifice and heroism, the essence of the princely state of Rajasthan still lingers around the historic ruins, the wind echoes with noises of the past and the golden hues of the Rajasthan sun whisper in your eardrums as you walk around this place, it leaves an indelible mark on your soul. It is the tale of the very heart of legendary India valor and evergreen legacy.