The hilltop fortress of Chittorgarh epitomizes the whole romantic, doomed ideal of Rajput chivalry. Three times in its long history, Chittor was sacked by a stronger enemy and, on each occasion, the end carne in textbook Rajput fashion as jauhar was declared in the face of impossible odds. The men donned the saffron robes of martyrdom and rode out from the fort to certain death, while the women and children immolated themselves on a huge funeral pyre. Honour was always more important than death. Despite the fort’s impressive locations and colourful history, Chittor is well and truly off the main tourist circuit and sees surprisingly few visitors. It’s well worth the detour.

History
Chittor’s first defeat occurred in 1303 when Ala-ud-din Khilji, the Pathan King of Delhi, besieged the fort in order to capture the beautiful Padmini, wife of the Rana’s uncle, Bhim Singh. When defeat was inevitable the Rajput noblewomen, including Padmini, committed sati and Bhim Singh led the orange-clad nobleman out to their deaths. In 1535 it was Bahadur Shah, the sultan of Gujarat, who besieged the fort and, once again, the medieval dictates of chivalry determined the outcome. This time, the carnage was immense. It is said that 13,000 Rajput women and 32,000 Rajput warriors died following the declaration of jauhar.

The final sack of Chittor came just 33 years later, in 1568, when the Mughal emperor, Akbar, took the town. Once again, the fort was defended heroically but, once again, the odds were overwhelming and the women performed sati, the fort gates were flung open and 8000 orange-robbed warriors rode out to their deaths. On this occasion, Maharana Udai Singh fled to Udaipur where he re-established his capital. In 1616, Jehangir returned Chittor to the Rajputs but there was no attempt at resettlement.

Attractions

• Chittorgarh Fort
  The Chittorgarh Fort is a massive structure perched on a hill spread over an area of 280-hectare. Among the monuments housed within the fort are Rana Kumbha Palace, Fateh Prakash Palace, Tower of Victory and Padmini's Palace.
• Sita Mata Sanctuary
  The jungle of Sita Mata is spread across over Aravalli ranges and Malwa plateau. Three rivers flow through the forest that adds to its attraction. A variety of animals that can be spotted here include leopard, hyena, jackal, fox, porcupine, sambar, wild boar, four-horned antelope and countless others.
• Kirti Stambh
  Adherents of the Jainism travel to Rajasthan in large number as the state is noted for being home to some of the finest Jaina structures. One of them is Kirti Stambh. Dedicated to Adinath, the 1st Jaina Tirthankar, the Kirti Stambh was built in the 12th century A.D by a wealthy Jain merchant. The tower is adorned by the naked figures of the Digambars.
• Victory Tower
  Located within the premises of Rana Kumbha Palace, Victory Tower commemorates the victory of Rana Kumbha over Mahmud Khilji. This 37-m, 9-storied tower has a number of balconies at each story, offering a splendid view of the monuments located within the fort.
• Rana Kumbha Palace
  This 15th century Palace of Rana Kumbha is a classic specimen of Rajput architecture. It was built by Rana Kumbha during whose reign Mewar prospered and scaled new heights.
• Kumbha Shyam Temple
  Built during the region of Rana Kumbha the temple is a fine example in the Indo-Aryan style. The shrine is famous for housing an image of Varaha, the boar incarnation of Vishnu.
• Kalika Mata Temple
  Dedicated to the mother Goddess Kali the temple has beautiful carvings. The carvings include the famous scenes of the churning of the ocean by the gods and demons. There is an image of Surya guarding the main entrance to the temple.
• Meerabai Temple
  Built in north Indian style with a delicate curved tower the temple is dedicated to Meerabai, the famous Jodhpur princess and mystic poetess.
• Gaumukh Kund
  The Gaumukh Kund is a deep tank and considered to be a holy place. Located in the tranquil surroundings, this spot offers spectacular views across the plains.
• Padmini's Palace
  Padmini's Palace is built beside the lotus pool with a historical pavilion that changed the course of history of Chittor. Ala-ud Ala-ud-din -din's obsession with her beauty led to the bloody battle in 130. Padmini committed jauhar to disgrace. A travel to Rajasthan will acquaint you with the highly cherished notion that death is preferable to dishonor.