India Tour Packages
Chittorgarh Travel Guide
History of Chittorgarh
Which is one of the oldest cities of Rajasthan dates back to the 8th century. It was given as a dowry gift to Bappa Rawal, the founder of the Sisodia Dynasty when he married the last Solanki princess somewhere in the 8th century. Spread over a 7-mile long hill, the city of Chittorgarh was ruled by the descendants of Bappa Rawal till somewhere around the 16th century.
Chittorgarh was always a fiercely contested seat of power due to its strategic location. In fact Chittorgarh's history is fraught with some of the bloodiest battles of all times. It was sacked a number of times, the most famous attack being the one launched by
Alauddin Khilji, the sultan of Delhi who was enamored by its then queen Padmini's beauty. The tale of this brave queen who sacrificed her life to escape dishonor is still sung about by the local musicians of Rajasthan. In fact the history of Chittorgarh is replete with the tales of its gallant warriors for whom honor triumphed over everything.
After Khilji's attack, Bahadur Shah attacked Chittorgarh in 1535 AD followed by a third one by Akbar in 1568. The last attack was the final straw and Chittorgarh never recovered from this attack. In fact, the city was never inhabited after that. Right now, this ghost town still reverberates with the tales of its past glory and the sacrifices made by its people.have
Festivals
Deepawali (Dewali or Depawali)
Diwali is celebrated all over India. The preparations for the festival begins well in advance. People start decorating their homes, preparing sweets and farsans and buy new clothes & jewellery all this to welcome the Goddess into their homes who comes to bless all. People light up their homes with clay oil lamps and colorful lights and Rangolis . This new moon night or Amavasya as it is called is thus turned into a bright and colourful night
Holi
Holi is a festival of colour & is celebrated all over India. It is also celebrated by Indians residing out of India. This festival comes on the full moon day of Phagan - a Hindu month. This festival bring new hope for all the people as it marks the end of chilled winter days and the beginning of the summer. People forget their enmity and throw away their worries
Everywhere people - young or old are drenched with different colours and water which comes from everywhere, there are balloons bursting and long piston squirting coloured water. People in small groups are seen singing, dancing and throwing colours on each other
Dussehra
One of the big festivals celebrated in most parts of India is Dussehra. Dussehra marks the victory of Ram over the demon king Ravana, and the rescue of his wife Sita. In north India, gigantic effigies of the ten-headed Ravana and his brothers are set aflame amidst bursting of crackers. Fairs are usually held on this occasion with lots to eat, buy and enjoy. This day is also known as Vijayadashmi, or the Victory Tenth, because of the victory of Ram over Ravana.
Raksha Bandhan
Raksha Bandhan is a Hindu custom marking the love and affection between brothers and sisters. It is celebrated on "Shravan Sud Poornima" every year according to the Hindu Calender. Raksha means Protection , Bandhan means bond. On this day, sisters tie a colourful 'Rakhi' on the wrists of their brothers. Sisters believe that this will bring success, peace, and good health to their brothers throughout the year. Brothers on their part take a vow to protect their sister, and a symbol of his love gives a gift to his sister
Ganesh Chaturthi
Ganesh Chaturthi marks the birth of Lord Ganesha and is celebrated all over the country. This is also symbolic of the advent of all festivals dedicated to other Indian Gods. The temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha is located in the fort of Ranthambhor, about 12 kms from Sawai Madhopur. The Orange color in which the idol is painted as well is the holy colour for this festival. The idol is lavishly decorated with golden ornaments and every day felicities with huge garlands of marigold.
How to reach?
By Air: The nearest airport is Dabok Airport (Maharana Pratap Airport) at Udaipur,
By Rail: Chittorgarh railway station is beautifully placed on the banks of River Gambheri. The Chittorgarh railway station is well connected with other major cities in India namely, Ahmedabad, Ajmer, Udaipur, Jaipur, Kota and Delhi. If you prefer luxury travel, then there is no better choice than the train, Palace on Wheels which offers a truly regal experience.
By Road: There are regular bus services from Chittorgarh to other cities in India.
Budget Hotel
Hotel Castle Bijapur, Chittorgarh
Hotel Padmini, Chittorgarh
Hotel Panna, Chittorgarh
Hotel Pratap Palace, Chittorgarh