While the foundations were laid down as back as the 7th century, renovations and additions were made by the rulers of Mewar. Thrice conquered, the Chittaurgarh Fort has stood witness to many battles. Seized by Allauddin Khilji in1303, by Sultan Bahadur Shah in 1535 and lastly by Akbar in 1567, the erstwhile bastion tells tales of Rajput valor.
The Badal Pol, Bhairon Pol, Hanuman Pol and Ram Pol are the important gateways to this fort. The Vijay Sthamba erected in 1440 by Rana Kumbha, holds testimony to the Rajput win over Malwa and Gujarat. Chittaurgarh Fort also houses Rana Kumbha's Palace. The Kirti Sthamba or the Tower of Fame is a 12th century Jain monument. Rani Padmini's legend is intimately associated with this fort. It is believed that Allauddin Khilji was enamored by Rani Padmini after catching a glimpse of her on the waters of a pond. He attacked Rana Ratan Singh and the queen committed self immolation, Johar to save her honor.
The queen's palace and the famed pond also stand within the precincts of the Chittaurgarh Fort. A number of temples such as Meera Mahal, Kumbha Shyam Temple, Kalika Mata Temple, Tulja Bhawani Temple, Satbis Deori and the Annapurna Temple are also located within this fort. The Mohar Magri, the Gaumukh Reservoir, the Government Museum and the Singar Chauri are other attractions of the Chittaurgarh Fort.
