You have already planned your holiday for India’s one the beautiful and mesmerizing destination – Udaipur, the Venice of the East. Udaipur, a romantic heritage city that has a lot to explore and we are sure when you are done exploring forts, palaces, blue lakes, culture, tradition and heritage you still want to cover interesting places near Udaipur. Here, we have the perfect list of places to visit on your day-long trip to Chittorgarh.
Vijay Stambha – The Victory Tower of Chittorgarh
Built by the king of Mewar – Rana Kumbha, Vijay Stambha symbolizes the victory over the combined forces of Malwa and Gujarat led by Mahmud Khilji, in 1448. This mighty tower was constructed during the period 1458 and 1488 and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
The intriguing part of this tower is it is visible from any part of the town and has carvings and sculptures of Hindu Gods and Goddesses. You can see the masterpiece of unity with image of the Jain Goddess, Padmavati at the highest storey and the word Allah carved nine times on the third storey and eight times on the eighth storey.
Vijay Stambha is an iconic monument which symbolizes the vibrant history and is often visited by the tourists.
Chittorgarh Fort – The Glorious Fort of Rajasthan
Chittorgarh Fort also known as “Chitrakuta” built by the King Chitrangad from the royal Maurya family which was then captured by Mewar rules and was taken over by the kings until Akbar came and lasted till British came over. Spread across 700 acres, this glorified fort has seven gates namely: Ganesh gate, Hanuman gate, Padan gate, Jodla gate, Bhairon gate, Lakshman gate and the last and the main gate, Ram gate. The purpose of these gates was to protect the fort from the enemy attacks and stop elephants from entering. There are four palaces, 19 temples including Jain and Hindu temples, 20 water bodies, and four memorials.
Chittorgarh Fort is a glorified fort which has tales and historic connection in every corner and on top of this, the fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tower of Fame (Kirti Stambh)
The 72 ft high tower built in the 12th century is a must visit place. The tower is decorated with Jain inscriptions and sculptures. Constructed by Jijaji Rathod, the Kirti Stambh pays respect and homage to the first Jain tirthankar – Adinath.
You head up to witness the architectural beauty of the tower which has six floors and 54 steps. At every step of the tower you experience the pride and purpose of Kirti Stambh.
Meera Temple
Constructed by Maharana Kumbha in 1449, the Meera temple is dedicated to Meera Bai and is very known Hindu temple. The beautiful temple has idols of Gods in its sanctum, mendap and pillars. This temple reflects the Indo-Aryan style of architecture and is a symbol of cultural heritage and records a large number of tourists.
The best part of this temple is that you can witness the beauty of Meera Bai temple and the Kumbha Shyam temple with carved statue of human bodies. Each one head symbolizes that people of all castes and creed are the same.
Padmini’s Palace
Once a humble abode of the exquisitely beautiful Rajput queen, Rani Padmini and the the wife of King Rawal Ratan Singh. Being the daughter of a Sinhala ruler Gandharvasen, there is an epic mention of Rani Padmini in the history of the Rajput warriors.
Also, the palace has a firm place in history with an incident directly responsible for the epic battle between Allauddin Khiliji and Rana Ratan Singh.
Sanwariyaji Temple – Lord Krishna Temple
A very known temple of Lord Krishna and an important pilgrimage as well as tourist spot. Located on the Chittorgarh – Udaipur road, the Sanwariya ji temple has a presence of all the interesting folk tales that you would love to hear while enjoying the beauty of the temple and experiencing the divine atmosphere at the temple.
The temple is also famous among Opium Farmers. Legally grown and exported to the world pharmaceutical industry across the globe to manufacture Morphine-based painkillers.
Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary
Spread across an area of 50 Square KM, the Bassi wildlife sanctuary is home to panthers, wild boars, antelopes, mongoose and migratory birds. Established in 1988, this is a must do adventure trip if you are visiting Chittorgarh. The Sanctuary is located just 5 kms from the Fort on the Vindhyachal Ranges with series of magnificent views, large lakes, water channels that goes down into the forest.
If you are planning to visit this sanctuary then prior permission has to be obtained from the District Forest Officer, Chittorgarh.
Deogarh – Famous Spot of Mural and Temples
A 16th century fort near Pratapgarh which is famous for the palaces with ornate murals and beautiful Jain temples. Home of the Mewar dynasty rulers and one of the sixteen “umroas” – the feudal barons attending on the Maharana of Udaipur. It is said that Rawats of Deogarh once ruled the largest jagir in the Rajasthan.
Bijaipur
Located in the Vindhyanchal Hills, Bijaipur is surrounded by forests and Jaracanda overlooking the valley. A castle built in the 16th century by Rao Shakti Singh, the younger brother of Maharana Pratap.
We understand the excitement and importance of spending your holiday in the city of Udaipur and taking a long day trip to Chittorgarh. Our best picks will help you out to build your day itinerary and make your holiday mesmerizing.
We did love to know if you come across any new spots on your trip to Chittorgarh. Feel free to share in our comments section.
Image Source: Wikipedia
