Kirti Stambh Chittorgarh or the Victory Tower is a very popular tourist attraction of Rajasthan. Situated inside the barriers of the Chittorgarh Fort, very near to the famous “Kirti Stambh” or Tower of Fame , the Vijay Stambh is 37.19 metres high with a 14 m2 platform and a base width of 9 metres. The Vijay Stambh is dedicated to the Hindu God Vishnu. The tour plan of this tower is almost always found in various Chittorgarh tour packages. This place should definitely be on your list of places to visit Chittorgarh especially while visiting the majestic Chittorgarh Fort.
History of Kirti Stambha
The Kirti Stambha, or “Tower of Fame,” is a significant historical monument nestled within the formidable Chittorgarh Fort in Rajasthan, India. Unlike its larger counterpart, the Vijay Stambha, the Kirti Stambha predates it, having been constructed in the 12th century CE.
This 22-meter (72-foot) high, seven-storied tower was built by a wealthy Bagherwal Jain merchant named Jijaji Rathod (or Jeeja Bhagerwala). Its primary purpose was to glorify Jainism and honor Adinath, the first Tirthankara (revered teacher) of Jainism. The tower is a testament to the thriving Jain community in Chittorgarh during that era.
Architecturally, Kirti Stambha is a stunning example of the Solanki style, characterized by intricate carvings and sculptures. Its exterior and interior are adorned with numerous figures of Digambar Jain Tirthankaras, including standing images of Adinath on all four cardinal directions of the lowest floor, and hundreds of miniature Jain divinities on upper levels. A narrow staircase of 54 steps leads to the top, offering panoramic views of the fort and surrounding landscape.
Kirti Stambha stands as a powerful symbol of Jain philosophy and culture, reflecting the artistic and spiritual dedication of its builders and its historical significance as a prominent Jain center.
Architecture of Kirti Stambha
The Tower of Fame is constructed in the Solanki style of architecture with numerous balconies and intricately arched windows. The tower is 22 meters (72 feet) tall with a 30 feet wide base; which narrows down to 15 feet at the top. At the top of the seven-storied tower is an observation hall that rewards the visitors with a beautiful view of the habitation below. It can be reached through a narrow flight of stairs which also leads to a spectacular scenic view of surroundings.
Places To Visit In And Around Kirti Stambh Chittorgarh fort
The Kirti Stambha is located within the vast Chittorgarh Fort, which itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a treasure trove of history, architecture, and legends. So, the best “places to visit in and around Kirti Stambha” are largely within the fort complex itself, along with a few significant sites just outside.
The Kirti Stambha is located within the vast Chittorgarh Fort, which itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a treasure trove of history, architecture, and legends. So, the best “places to visit in and around Kirti Stambha” are largely within the fort complex itself, along with a few significant sites just outside.
Here are the key places to visit in and around Kirti Stambha within Chittorgarh Fort:
Within Chittorgarh Fort (Very Close to Kirti Stambha):
Vijay Stambha (Victory Tower): This is the other prominent tower in the fort, built by Maharana Kumbha. It’s larger and often considered more magnificent than Kirti Stambha. It’s dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is covered in detailed carvings of Hindu deities. It’s a short walk from Kirti Stambha and offers fantastic views from its upper levels.
Rana Kumbha Palace: This is the oldest palace within the fort and is steeped in history. It’s a sprawling ruin but gives a sense of the grandeur of the Mewar rulers. Legends suggest Rani Padmini also lived here, and it’s associated with Mirabai, the saint-poetess.
Rani Padmini’s Palace: A beautiful three-storied white building surrounded by a water moat, this palace is famously associated with the legendary Queen Padmini. The “Lotus Pool” nearby adds to its charm.
Gaumukh Reservoir: A sacred water tank within the fort, fed by a spring emerging from a rock formation resembling a cow’s mouth (Gau-mukh). It’s considered a holy spot.
Meera Temple (Kumbha Shyam Temple): Dedicated to the saint-poetess Mirabai, this temple is known for its intricate carvings and architectural beauty. It stands close to the Kumbha Shyam Temple, also dedicated to Lord Krishna.
How To Reach Kirti Stambh
Kirti Stambh is located at a distance of 5 km from the centre of Chittorgarh inside the Chittorgarh fort. One can easily take a rickshaw, local bus or taxi or just walk it out.
By Road: Tower of Fame (Kirti Stambh) is located in the Chittorgarh Fort at a distance of 5 km from centre of Chittorgarh on Fort Rd. One can easily reach here by rickshaw, local bus or taxi or by walk.
By Rail: Tower of Fame (Kirti Stambh) is well connected through nearest Chittorgarh Railway station (6 km) to major cities railway stations like Delhi, Agra, Mumbai, Chennai, Bikaner, Pali, Jaipur, Ahmedabad.
By Air: Tower of Fame (Kirti Stambh) can be reach through nearest Udaipur airport (98 km) which is well connected with regular domestic flights to Delhi, Mumbai.
