Chittorgarh, a quiet and serene town in Rajasthan is said to have been originally built by Bhim, one of the Pandavas. Though deserted now, impressive reminders of its grandeur still stand. See Rana Kumbha’s palace and Fateh Prakash palace. Visit the 37 m high Jaya Stambh (Tower of Victory) built by Rana Kumbha to commemorate his victory over Khiljis of Malwa in 1440. Also see the 22 m high Keerti Stambh or Tower of Fame, dedicated to Adinath and decorated with figures of various Jain tirthankars. A must visit here is Rani Padmini’s palace. The entrance of Chittorgarh is highly attractive with seven huge gates, namely Bhairon Pol, Lakshman Pol, Padan Pol, Hanuman Pol, Jorla Pol, Ganesh Pol and the main royal gate known as Ram Pol.
If rocks could speak it would be here in Chittorgarh that they would narrate what they have witnessed over many centuries. The tales of courage and valour, dignity and integrity bring the history alive. Most intriguing is the legend of Rani Padmini’s Jauhar which would bring goose bumps to the listener. Ask your local guide to narrate this legend to you while you tour the magnificent fort.
