The towers of victory and fame
Rana Kumbha built the Vijay Stambha in the mid-15th century to celebrate a victory over Mahmud Khalji of Malwa. The tower rises about 37 m in nine storeys, and every surface is carved with images of Hindu gods and goddesses, with inscriptions recording the history of Mewar. It is one of the finest towers in India.
A narrow internal stair winds to the top, with small windows on each floor. The climb is tight, steep and dark in places, and not for everyone, but the view from the top across the fort is worth the effort. Your guide will identify the carvings on the outside for those who prefer to stay on the ground.
The Kirti Stambha, the Tower of Fame, stands on the eastern side of the fort and is older, built in the 12th century by a Jain merchant. About 22 m high, it is dedicated to Adinath and carved with Jain figures. It is quieter than the Vijay Stambha and lovely in the late afternoon.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
Can you climb the Vijay Stambha
Climbing has generally been allowed via a narrow internal staircase to the upper floors, with small windows on each level. It is steep, tight and dark in places, unsuitable for anyone with claustrophobia or limited mobility. The view across the fort rewards those who go up, and your guide can read the outside carvings with anyone who stays below. Rules change for safety, so check current status before you travel.
What is the difference between Vijay Stambha and Kirti Stambha
Vijay Stambha, the Tower of Victory, was built in the 15th century by Rana Kumbha to mark a military victory and is carved with Hindu deities. Kirti Stambha, the Tower of Fame, is a 12th-century Jain tower dedicated to Adinath.
How tall is the Vijay Stambha
About 37 m, in nine storeys, standing on a raised base. Its carved surfaces show Hindu gods, goddesses and scenes, with inscriptions recording the rulers of Mewar. Rana Kumbha built it in the mid-15th century to mark his victory over Mahmud Khalji of Malwa. For scale, the Jain Kirti Stambha on the eastern side of the fort is about 22 m high and older, from the 12th century.
Also in Chittorgarh
More hours to plan around
