Capital of the ancient kingdom of Mewar, Chittorgarh is located on the banks of the Gambhiri River in Rajasthan.
The fortified city of Chittorgarh, from which the city's name derives, is a testament to the pride and valor of the Rajput dynasty. Site of several glorious battles, the most remembered was the siege of Ala-ud-din Khilji, when instead of falling into the hands of the aggressors, the women committed tuahar (self-restraint) while the men went to war. Chittorgarh Fort was built by the Maurians in the 7th century AD. C. On top of a 180 m hill, the fort has 22 bodies of water, palaces, towers and temples and is spread over 700 acres.
The fort is one of the largest fortifications in India and its main attractions are the two memorial towers, Kirti Stambh and Vijay Stambh. The former was built to honor the first Jain Tirthankar while the latter was built to commemorate the victory over Mohammed Khilji.
Chittorgarh is also a great place for craft lovers. Visitors can shop for metalwork, textiles, handmade toys, leather shoes, and jewelry.