Chittorgarh Fort is about 115 km from Udaipur, 2–2.5 hours by road. It was Mewar's capital before Udaipur and is one of the largest forts in India, covering roughly 700 acres. Leave Udaipur by 7 am, hire a guide at the gate, and allow 4–5 hours to see Vijay Stambh, Kirti Stambh, Rana Kumbha's palace, Padmini's palace and the temples.
Key facts
- Capital of Mewar until 1568
- Covers about 700 acres on a hill above the Berach river
- Vijay Stambh (Tower of Victory) built by Rana Kumbha in the 15th century
- UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2013
Before Udaipur, there was Chittor. For eight centuries this hilltop was the heart of Mewar, and it holds the kingdom’s most famous, and most tragic, stories.
A short history
Chittorgarh was Mewar’s capital until 1568, when the Mughal emperor Akbar besieged and took it. Maharana Udai Singh II had already moved to the hills and founded Udaipur. The fort saw three great sieges, and three jauhars, when the women of the fort chose death over capture. The stories of Rani Padmini, Panna Dhai and Meera Bai are all tied to this place.
The route inside
Drive in through the seven gates, then:
- Rana Kumbha’s Palace, the oldest palace ruins.
- Vijay Stambh, the nine-storey Tower of Victory built by Rana Kumbha in the 15th century. Climb it if it’s open.
- Meera temple and Kumbha Shyam temple.
- Gaumukh reservoir, fed by a spring.
- Padmini’s Palace, beside a pool.
- Kirti Stambh, the older Jain Tower of Fame.
- Kalika Mata temple.
Practical
- Distance: about 115 km, 2–2.5 hours.
- Leave by 7 am.
- Hire a licensed guide at the gate; the stories make the visit.
- ASI tickets at the gate.
- Allow 4–5 hours. Bring water and a hat.
Evening
There’s a sound and light show at the fort in the evening. If you want it, stay overnight in Chittorgarh.
More history
Read our history of Udaipur and Maharana Pratap and Chetak. Book a car for the day.
Frequently asked questions
How much time do I need at Chittorgarh Fort?
Four to five hours with a car inside the fort. The fort is huge; you drive between the sights.
Is Chittorgarh worth a day trip from Udaipur?
Yes, especially if you're interested in history. It's the setting of Mewar's most famous stories.
Can I see Chittorgarh and Kumbhalgarh in one day?
No. They're in opposite directions from Udaipur. Do them on separate days.
