Chittorgarh fort is a massive and majestic fort situated on a hilltop near Chittorgarh town in Rajasthan state in India.It is one of the most historically significant fort not only in Rajasthan but whole of North India. The fort stands on top a a 180m-high hill and is on about 280 hectare site.
Chittorgarh (Chittaurgarh) is the epitome of Rajput pride, romance and spirit. It reverberates with history of heroism and sacrifice, which is evident as it echoes with the tales sung by the Bards of Rajasthan. The main reason for visiting Chittorgarh is its massive hilltop fort, which is a depiction of Rajput culture and values.
The fort of Chittor is regarded as one of the most outstanding forts of the country and is indeed the "Pride of Rajasthan State". The formidable fort is perched atop a 180 meter high hillock covering a massive area of 700 acres and is a standing sentinel to the courage and valour of Chittorgarh. It is believed that the fort was build by the Mauryans in 7th century and further strucres were added to it by the successive Mewar rulers.
The legend says that when the talks of Rani Padmini's beauty reached the years of Sultan Alauddin Khilji, the powerful ruler of Delhi, he requested her husband, Rana Rattan Singh, for a glimpse of the queen. Though, it went against the honor code of Rajputs, yet he was allowed to get a glimpse of the queen through the reflection of the queen in a water tank that overlooked the palace. Alauddin, then, had the audacity to attack Chittor to gain her possession. He won the war but lost Rani Padmini who committed 'jauhar' to save her honor.
The one mile long serpentine road to the fort is quite steep and exhaustive. The fort is approached through seven huge gateways or īpolsī, which are guarded by watch tower and massive iron spiked doors.
