Be yourself; Everyone else is already taken.
— Oscar Wilde.
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Chittorgarh, Rajasthan
Massive Chittorgarh Fort is regarded as the greatest fort in Rajasthan and is also one of the largest forts in India. It sprawls across some 700 acres! Mewar kings ruled from the fort for eight centuries, until Mughal Emperor Akbar besieged and captured it in 1568. Akbar’s eldest son, Jehangir, ended up giving the fort back to the Mewars in 1616. However, they never resettled there.
Due to its size, the fort is most comfortably explored by vehicle and it’s a good idea to allow at least three hours to do so. Some parts of it are in ruin but its former glory is still very much present. Attractions include old palaces, temples, towers, and a reservoir where it’s possible to feed fish. Climb to the top of Vijay Stambha (Tower of Victory) for a dramatic view.
Perhaps the most shocking part of the fort is the area used as a royal cremation ground. It’s also where tens of thousands of Rajput women immolated themselves, choosing death before dishonor, on the three occasions that the fort was taken by rival armies in the 15th and 16th centuries.
Chittorgarh is located in the southern part of Rajasthan, around half way between Delhi and Mumbai, and just over two hours drive from Udaipur. It can easily be visited on a day trip or side trip from Udaipur.
Historical Forts 