Haldighati is a mountain pass about 40 km north of Udaipur where Maharana Pratap's army fought the Mughal army led by Raja Man Singh on 18 June 1576. Today you can visit the battle area, Chetak's memorial where Pratap's horse fell, and a private museum. The name comes from the turmeric-yellow soil. Allow 2–3 hours.
Key facts
- Battle of Haldighati: 18 June 1576
- Maharana Pratap vs the Mughal army under Raja Man Singh
- Chetak's memorial (Chetak Samadhi) marks where the horse died
- Famous for its rose products: gulkand and rose water
Every child in Mewar knows the story of Haldighati. Standing in the narrow pass, you can picture it.
The battle
On 18 June 1576, Maharana Pratap’s army, including Bhil archers and Afghan cavalry under Hakim Khan Sur, met the much larger Mughal army led by Raja Man Singh of Amber. The fighting was fierce. Pratap was wounded, and his horse Chetak, though badly injured, carried him out of the battle before collapsing.
The Mughals held the field, but Pratap escaped and never submitted. He kept fighting from the hills and later recovered much of Mewar. Read Maharana Pratap and Chetak.
What to see
- The pass, with its yellow soil. Haldi means turmeric.
- Chetak Samadhi, the memorial where Chetak is said to have died.
- Rakt Talai, the “pool of blood”, where much of the fighting happened.
- A private museum with a light-and-sound style presentation and displays on Pratap’s life.
Roses
Haldighati is known for roses. Shops sell gulkand (rose petal preserve), rose water and rose sherbet.
Getting there
About 40 km, an hour north of Udaipur. Combine with Eklingji and Nathdwara for a full day.
Before you go
Visit Moti Magri in Udaipur to see Pratap’s statue, and read our history of Udaipur.
Frequently asked questions
Who won the Battle of Haldighati?
The Mughal army held the field, but Pratap escaped and continued to resist for the rest of his life. Mewar remembers it as an act of defiance, not defeat.
How far is Haldighati from Udaipur?
About 40 km north, roughly an hour by road.
Why is it called Haldighati?
Haldi means turmeric. The soil in the pass is yellow like turmeric.
