Explore Rani Padmavat Palace at Chittorgarh Fort

Hidden within the sprawling heart of Chittorgarh Fort lies the legendary Rani Padmavat Palace, also known as Padmini Mahal — a three‑storied white marble structure surrounded by a serene lotus pond.

It stands as a symbol of Rajput valor, regal beauty, and historical drama.

Explore Rani Padmavat Palace at Chittorgarh Fort

Rani Padmavat Palace Location

• Location: In the southern part of Chittorgarh Fort, Rajasthan (about 7.5 km from Chittorgarh Railway Station and ~1.5 km from Rana Kumbha Palace) https://www.tourmyindia.com/states/rajasthan/padmini-palace-chittorgarh.html

• Fort Timings: Open daily 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (light & sound show may extend till 8:00 PM)

• Entry Fee:

  • Indian adult: ₹10 or ₹15 depending on source

  • Child: ₹10

  • Foreign visitors: ₹200

  • These fees include access to the palace inside the fort complex

• Best Season: September to March for pleasant weather and clear skies

Historical Significance

Legendary Background

Explore Rani Padmavat Palace at Chittorgarh Fort

The palace is tied to the dramatic story of Rani Padmini, wife of Rawal Ratan Singh, said to be originally from Sri Lanka’s Sinhala dynasty. Enshrined in the 1540 CE epic Padmavat by Malik Muhammad Jayasi, her beauty reportedly captivated Alauddin Khilji, who demanded a glimpse of her via a mirror inside the palace. The request escalated into the Siege of Chittorgarh in 1303 CE, culminating in Rana Ratan Singh’s death and Rani Padmini’s choice of jauhar to avoid captivity.

Architectural Highlights

• Built beside a lotus‑filled water moat, the palace’s reflection enhances its ethereal beauty.

• Topped with elegant chhatris (pavilions), it inspired later Jal Mahal-style architecture in Mewar.

• Only one side of the building is accessible. The rest remains surrounded by water and cannot be entered.

Inside Rani Padmini Mahal Chittorgarh Fort

1. Lotus Pool Reflection View

• The palace is surrounded by a picturesque water reservoir, often filled with lotus flowers.

• From the balconies and walkways, you can see the reflected image of the palace in the water — a favorite spot for photographers.

2. The Mirror Chamber (Legendary Spot)

• This is the location where Alauddin Khilji allegedly caught a glimpse of Rani Padmini through a mirror.

• Though the original mirror no longer exists, the chamber still evokes the dramatic moment in Rajput history.

3. Rajput Architecture & Chhatris

• The palace features Rajput-style domes and pavilions (chhatris).

• Its white three-story structure is simple yet regal, with historical ambience that transports you back to the 14th century.

4. Water Moat and Bridge

• The palace sits on a platform surrounded by a moat — symbolizing both royalty and protection.

• A small stone bridge connects the palace to the mainland, offering a romantic and dramatic setting.

What to Experience

• Mirror Legend Spot: The central chamber is traditionally believed to house the mirror through which Alauddin Khilji saw Rani Padmini—but note the original mirror was allegedly vandalised in 2018.

• Lotus Pond Views: Photogenic vantage points overlooking the pool reflect the palace’s fairytale charm.

• Audio-Guides or Local Narratives: Available and often included to explain local folklore around valor and sabha rituals.

Travel Tips & Nearby Attractions

• How to Reach:

  • From Chittorgarh Railway Station (~7.5 km): take an auto, taxi, or rental bike

  • The palace is inside the fort; plan to walk through other monuments like Vijaya Stambh, Rana Kumbha Palace, Kalika Mata Temple, and Mirabai Temple

• Nearby Highlights:

  • Vijaya Stambh (Victory Tower) — built by Rana Kumbha to commemorate victory over Gujarat and Malwa, with inscriptions of genealogy and architecture by Sutradhar Jaita and sonsWikipedia

  • Kalika Mata Temple — formerly a Sun Temple, rebuilt as a Kali shrine after Khilji’s attack, featuring intricate carvings and sacred interiors

  • Gaumukh Kund — sacred tank fed by a natural spring, next to a small temple dedicated to Rani Padmini. Visitors often perform symbolic water ritual .

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