This fortified settlement has been ravaged three times. Alauddin Khilji was the first to attack Chittaur in 1303. In 1533, during Bikramjeet's authority, Chittor was invaded second time by Bahadur Shah, the Sultan of Gujrat. Again Jauhar was led by Rani Karnavati, a princess of Bundi. Her minor child son, Udai Singh was smuggled from Chittaur to Bundi who survived to inherit the throne of the citadel. In 1567 when Mughal ruler Akbar invaded Chittaur, Udai Singh escaped to establish a new capital, Udaipur, the beautiful city of lakes, leaving Chittaur to be defended by two 16-year-old heroes, Jaimal of Bednore and Phatta of Kelwa. These young men showed true Rajput chivalry and died after 'Jauhar' by royal ladies was executed. Immediately afterwards Akbar shaved the fort to the rubble. Chittaur was never inhabited again but it still symbolizes the heroic spirit of Rajput warriors.
When to visit Chittorgarh?
The best time to visit Chittorgarh Fort is between July and March. A visit to the fort can be arranged during your journey between Udaipur and Jaipur. You can also plan a stay in the villages near Chittorgarh such as Bijaipur, Bassi, Bhainsrorgarh etc.