About Chandravati Archaeological Site
Chandravati is an ancient archaeological site located near Abu Road in the Sirohi district of Rajasthan. Once a major medieval city spanning approximately 50 hectares, it flourished between the 7th and 15th centuries under various dynasties including the Parmaras and Chauhans. The site features extensive ruins of temples, fortifications, residential complexes, and sculptural artifacts representing Hindu and Jain traditions.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore scattered ruins of ancient temples, torans (arched gateways), and stone sculptures spread across a large area. The site includes remains of three fortified enclosures, residential complexes with multi-room structures, and architectural fragments from numerous temples. The ruins are situated in a rural setting near the West Banas River, offering insights into medieval urban planning and religious architecture.
Key highlights
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Ruins of approximately thirty-six ancient temples
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Three fortified enclosures including a four-hectare fortification
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Extensive collection of Hindu and Jain sculptural artifacts
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Remains of medieval residential complexes with halls and rooms
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Ancient bawaris (stepwells) and water management structures
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Stone torans and deity images scattered across the site
History of Chandravati Archaeological Site
Chandravati was a major medieval city that flourished from the 7th to the 15th century CE. It served as a capital township under the Parmar Dynasty of Abu and later came under Chauhan rule. The site reached its greatest prosperity during the 11th and 12th centuries. Excavations conducted from 2013 to 2016 revealed evidence of an extensive settlement covering approximately 50 hectares. The city declined after 1412 CE and was further damaged during railway construction before independence.
Culture & Context
The site represents an important center of medieval Hindu and Jain culture in western India. The sculptural collection includes architectural fragments from numerous temples, showcasing the artistic traditions of the region. Chandravati served as a cultural and trade center between the 7th and 13th centuries, bearing witness to the religious and social practices of medieval Rajasthan.