Images of chittorgarh fort

Chitor or ancient Chitrakuta was the capital of Mewar & the center of Rajput policy from 7th to mid 16th century A.D. The fort was built by Chitrangada Maurya after whom it is named Chitorgarh. But the Sisodia ruler Ajay Pal (1174-77 A.D.) seems to have improved the earlier fort all built by the Gohalit king in the 9th century A.D. Maharana Kumbha (1433-68 a.d.) made extensive alterations & additions. It has been a witness to the rule of several dynasties such as the Mauryas (7-8th century), Pratiharas (9th century), Paramaras (10-11th century), Solankis (12th century) followed by Guhilots or Sisodias. Stone inscription in the fort. The fort is famous for its architectural features & feats of valor of its rulers who fought for its independence. The fort is fish shaped, is situated on a 180 meter high hill ie 600 metres above sea level. It covers an area of 700 acres, had 13 temples & 84 reservoirs and a fortification wall ie 13 kms in length. The traditional entrance is from the east whose picture you see, was meant for coming on horse or by foot. There were seven gates of which only two remain. Below this entrance are fields ending with mountains. Today you drive into the fort from the western side. You see fort ka main entrance door. In earlier times elephants were used to break open the gates. Given the elephants height rulers fixed pointed steel rods at a particular height on the gate so that it would pierce elephants who tried breaking the gate. As you drive by you se...