RATAN SINGH PALACE

CHITTORGARH

RATAN SINGH PALACE

CHITTORGARH

Ratan Singh Palace (or Ratan Singh Mahal) is a historic winter retreat for the Mewar royals, located inside the massive Chittorgarh Fort complex. Here’s what makes it special:


Historical & Architectural Highlights
  • Built by Maharana Ratan Singh II (1527–1531 CE) as a seasonal palace and venue for royal ceremonies 

  • Layout: Rectangular design enclosed by tall walls. The grand eastern gateway—featuring an arch with twin pillared chhatris—leads into a central courtyard surrounded by rooms 

  • Upper floor pavilion (Darikhana) overlooks the adjacent Ratneshwar Talab, offering panoramic views of Chittorgarh Fort 

  • Ratneshwar Mahadeva Temple, just north of the entrance, includes a garbhagriha, antarala, and mandapa, all adorned with intricate carvings 

  • Gardens: Lush landscaped spaces inside the palace compound create a serene ambiance For royal respite 


Cultural Essence & Legends
  • Offers a calm and refined contrast to the martial architecture of the rest of the fort, representing Mewar’s artistic side 

  • Strategic position atop a water body suggests the possibility of it doubling as a lookout—not just a leisure palace .

  • Local myths speak of secret passages—potential escape routes or clandestine corridors—from within the palace walls 


Timings & Access
  • Hours: 9:30–9:45 AM to 5:45–6:30 PM (varies slightly by source) 

  • Entry fee: Covered under Chittorgarh Fort ticket—₹15 for Indians, ₹200 for foreigners 

  • Location: About 1 km from Rana Kumbha Palace and near the Chittorgarh train station (6 km away) 


Visitor Tips
  • Visit in the cooler months (Oct–Mar) for the best experience 

  • Ideal to explore alongside other fort landmarks: Rana Kumbha Palace, Padmini’s Palace, several temples, and victory towers 

  • Opt for a guided tour to dive deeper into the architecture, stories, and legends woven into its walls 

  • Wear comfortable shoes—the fort and palace grounds include uneven stones and stairs.


Why It’s Worth Visiting
  • Provides a peaceful retreat within the colossal fort walls—perfect for soaking in architecture away from the crowds.

  • The Darikhana’s balcony gives one of the best vantage points for sweeping views of the fort and reservoir.

  • A peaceful spot surrounded by water and greenery, distinct in atmosphere and style from the more warfare-focused parts of the fort.