The North Western Indian State of Rajasthan is home to over one hundred fortifications, mostly built on mountainous or hilly terrain. Forts of Rajasthan is located across the state and have been designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Explore these majestic and historic fortifications to learn more about the history of the place. In addition, you can visit the state’s other major landmarks such as Jaipur, Bharatpur, and Jodhpur.
The forts of Rajasthan are considered part of India’s cultural heritage and are worth visiting. You will find many beautiful palaces, Jain temples, and elaborately-constructed ramparts. These forts were the primary homes for Rajput princely states between the 8th and 18th centuries. Whether you’re visiting for the architectural beauty or the historical significance of the forts, you’ll leave with fond memories.
1. Amer Fort
Amer Fort in Amer is one of the most visited sites in Jaipur. It is located in the town of Amer, which is approximately 11 kilometers from the city of Jaipur. The fort was built by Raja Man Singh and added to by Sawai Jai Singh. The Amber Fort was added in 1665 by Sawai Jai Singh. The fort has been the site of numerous royal ceremonies and is a major attraction in Amer.
Amer City was a small town that was founded by the Meena tribe around 11th century. The Meenas named the town Amer after the Goddess Amba. She was also known as Gatta Rani or the Queen of Pass. The Amer Fort was built by Raja Man Singh in 1592 AD and later expanded by Raja Jai Sigh I. Since then, it has stood the test of time and stood firm against many invasions.
You can access the fort by car. You can also take an elephant ride on the foothills of the fort. The elephant ride costs fifteen USD per person and is only available from 7am to 11am. The Amer Fort is also accessible by public transport. Buses from Jaipur are frequent and cost between 0.2 and one USD per person. You may want to arrive early to avoid the rush of tourists.
The Sheesh Mahal is perhaps the most interesting part of Amer Fort. The walls and ceilings are decorated with intricate mirror work and colored glass. Originally, women in the palace were not allowed to leave the premises, but they could light one candle at night and the flames would reflect off the ceilings and walls. This room is also famous for its intricate carvings of Ganesha. Its sheer beauty was enough to make the entire building a must-visit for any visitor.
2. Mehrangarh Fort Jodhpur
Mehrangarh Fort is located in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India, and covers over one thousand acres. It is perched 122 metres above the surrounding plain. The fort was originally constructed in 1459 by Rajput ruler Rao Jodha. Today, it is a must-see attraction that combines history, art, and culture. To learn more about Mehrangarh Fort, read on.
The walls of the fort are 117 feet long and 70 feet wide, rising up to 120 feet in places. There are seven gates. The fort also features elaborately-decorated temples and palaces. Visitors can enjoy a delicious lunch at the restaurant that overlooks the fort. Indulge yourself in the traditional Rajasthani fare while exploring the fort. You can see the handprints of the royal women who performed Sati on the husband’s pyre.
For a taste of authentic Indian cuisine, head to Mehran Terrace, a restaurant located inside the Mehrangarh Fort. The restaurant specializes in authentic Indian fare but also offers vegetarian dishes. Though the menu is a bit pricey, the ambiance is well-decorated, and the staff is hospitable. The fort is one of the top tourist attractions in Jodhpur.
While visiting the fort, you may wish to take time to explore the museum. The museum houses an extensive collection of decorative arts and artifacts from the city’s past. You can tour restored period rooms to learn about the royal lifestyle. From the ramparts and turrets of the fort, you can see the picturesque Old Jodhpur, also known as the Blue City. You may also purchase souvenirs, which are infused with Jodhpur’s rich culture and heritage.
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3. Jaisalmer Fort
The fort is located in the city of Jaisalmer, in the Indian state of Rajasthan. One of the few “living forts” in the world, it was the city of Jaisalmer for 800 years. Despite its quaint name, the fort is actually home to one fourth of the city’s population. A visit to Jaisalmer will allow you to see this historical fortress, and it’s a fascinating place to visit.
The fort is being restored to its former glory, and one major project is underway to renovate the fort. A pilot project is restoring part of the pitching wall. A geo-technical and architectural survey found that seepage caused collapses, which destabilized the clay-rich soils underneath. The studies found that the fort’s foundations were shifted by water seepage, which caused cracking and collapse of walls and other structures. The local authorities also hope to create an amphitheater for Rajput music and performances.
After capturing the fort in the 13th century, Alauddin Khilji ruled the city for nine years. The Mughals controlled Jaisalmer until 1762, when Maharawal Mulraj took over. He was the first ruler to enter into the East India Company. The Mughals left after the 18th century. The fort’s name was changed to Jaisalmer and his grandson Gaj Singh prospered. Jaisalmer’s history shifted drastically during the British period. British occupation changed the path of trade along the Silk Road. The city closed down after the Indian Independence.
The fort is in the middle of the modern town, which is difficult to miss. However, you should try to get there on foot. The fort has four entrances, named Akshay Pole, Suraj Pole, and Ganesha Pole. Besides the fort itself, there are other historical sites, such as the Hawa Pole, Rang Mahal, and Sarvottam Vila.
4. Chittor Fort
One of the world’s most stunning forts, Chittor Fort was captured by the Guhila ruler Bappa Rawal in 728 CE. It was not reconstructed until the year 1311, when the Arabs invaded. In this article, we’ll explore Chittor Fort’s rich history and the most interesting facts about the fort. Read on for some information about the fort and other nearby attractions.
One of the major attractions is the Meera Temple located inside the fort. This beautiful temple was originally dedicated to the Sun God, but was later rebuilt and renamed to honor Goddess Kali. This temple is also home to the goddess Tulja Bhavani, the Goddess of the west. While visiting Chittor Fort, make sure to visit the ancient temples. They are all well worth visiting. If you have time, you can also visit the Gaumukh reservoir and the Bhimtal Tank, which are both beautiful.
One of the most interesting facts about Chittor Fort is that it was used by the Hindus for a long time. However, many historians consider it a fabrication. The Jauhar narrative was not mentioned by Khusrow during the conquest of Chittor, but it was used in earlier times. Consequently, it is important to know the history of the fort before visiting it. And if you’re wondering who was responsible for renaming the fort, you can read about its history by visiting the site.
There are two towers inside the fort. The tallest of these is the Jaya Stambh, which was built by the Maharana Kumbha in honour of his victory over Mahmud Shah Khaji in 1458. Its nine-storey stairwell contains 157 steps, while the third storey is a museum. It’s worth a visit and has some interesting artifacts to offer.
5. Junagarh Fort Bikaner
Located in the city of Bikaner, the Junagarh Fort is a fascinating monument and offers a tranquil escape from the busy city life. This historical fort was constructed between 1588 and 1593 AD under the guidance of Karan Chand, who renamed the fort to Junagarh. The fort was once known as Chintamani, but was renamed Junagarh in the early 20th century after its family moved to Lalgarh Palace.
The fort is surrounded by two main gates, Karan Pol and Suraj Pol, both facing the east. Visitors must cross the Karan Pol, which is constructed from red sandstone, before entering through the second gate. These inner gates feature iron spikes, which guard against elephant attacks. The other two gates, Fateh Pol and Chand Pol, allow visitors to walk inside the fort.
A visit to the fort is a great way to learn more about the history of the city. The fort is home to several major temples, including the Har Mandir Temple. The museum also showcases art and architecture from the past, making it an excellent place to get a feel for life in the royal palace. This fort is also a good place to buy a camera ticket. It costs about Rs. 280, and is definitely worth the visit.
There are three parts of the fort, including the Flower Palace and the Karan Mahal. Raja Rai Singh, in the 16th century, built the Flower Palace in order to celebrate his victory over the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. The Karan Mahal is one of the largest palaces in Bikaner Kila, while the Badal Mahal is an extension of the former. The two are distinguished by their bright paintings.
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6. Jaigarh Fort
Located on a promontory in the Aravalli range, Jaigarh Fort looks out over the Maota Lake and Amer Fort. Jai Singh II, the last Mughal emperor, built the fort in 1726, and named it for him. Among the many UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India, Jaigarh Fort is an amazing place to visit.
The fort has several important buildings and structures, including the Diya Burj, the fort’s seven-storeyed tower. There is a Jaipur state flag hung on the top, and every Maharajah’s birthday, a lamp is lit on the top. The Aaram Mandir, or royal entertainment area, is another interesting building. It features Italian frescoes in blue, a Mughal garden, and a small theatre where dance shows were held.
While visiting the fort, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothes. Cotton and lightweight clothing are recommended and a water bottle will come in handy. Kids should wear loose cotton clothes and a hat, as it can get very hot in some parts. Be especially careful with small children; there are many stairs and narrow hallways to navigate! A fort guide will help you navigate the complex. Make sure to stay away from the corners and don’t let children wander around on their own.
Another fort in Jaipur, the Jaigarh Fort, is a magnificent structure perched on a cliff. It overlooks the nearby Amer Fort and Maota Lake. This palatial structure is one of the most popular places to visit in the city. You should plan your trip to Jaipur after reading this article. There are many other things to do in Jaipur.
7. Lohagarh Fort Bharatpur
The entrance fee to visit Lohagarh Fort Bharatpur is Rs. 50 for Indians and Rs. 400 for foreigners. For your convenience, you can also take a rickshaw ride to reach the fort. This route can take you to the main attractions in Bharatpur, including the Lohagarh Fort. The fort is accessible from the Jaipur and Agra highways.
The fort is located at the highest point of the Bharatpur city, so it commands the most imposing view of the entire region. Its rulers promoted the spirit of coexistence and harmony between Hindus and Muslims. You will be awed by these remarkable examples of secularism. During your visit, be sure to pay special attention to the carved and crafted monuments. It is worth taking the time to explore its interiors.
The fort is adorned with fascinating monuments that tell the tale of its past. Maharaja Suraj Mal built the Fateh Burj and the Jawahar Burj inside the fort. The Ashtadhatu (eight-metal) gateway has paintings of elephants. During the British rule, many attacks on the fort were thwarted, but it was well-protected by the fort.
Lord Lake, the commander of the British army, was extremely impressed with the fort’s potential. The Jats, who had taken refuge in the fort, fought to defend their kingdom against the British, and the British eventually agreed to sign a peace treaty. The Jats, on the other hand, were not convinced. Despite the fact that the British won, they had to return to Bharatpur.
