Forts and Palaces of Rajasthan

Amer Fort, Jaipur

Situated about 11 km from main Jaipur city, the Amer Fort is among the most impressive forts of Rajasthan. Also known as Amber Fort, this fort served as the capital for Kachhwaha clan of Amber until the capital was shifted to Jaipur. Made of white marble and red sandstone, this beautiful fort is a treat for the eyes. Maota Lake in front of the fort makes it more impressive to see. The reflection of the fort on clear water of the lake adds charm in its beauty, making it appear like a beautiful illusion. From the main road, one can reach the fort either by walking or riding the elephant that makes a fun activity to enjoy. Any tourist in Jaipur should never miss the visit to this must-see tourist attraction.

Khimsar Fort, Nagaur
The Khimsar Fort now turned into a heritage hotel is among the impressive structures of Rajasthan. The fort is located about 90 km from the city of Jodhpur which was founded by Rao Jodhaji. Rao Karamsiji was the eighth son of Rao Jodhaji who started the royal dynasty of the Karamsot Rathors at Khimsar. His brothers were the Maharajas of Jodhpur and Bikaner. In 1523 AD, Rao Karamsiji started the construction of Khimsar Fort. The fort lies near the border of Thar Desert and gives the visitors an opportunity to experience a wide array of activities. The fort bears a testimony to a number of fierce battles that were fought by the local rulers in order to safeguard their territories. Presently, the royal family resides in one section of the fort. A visit to this fort is like traveling down the ages of Rajas and the Maharajas of Rajasthan.

Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer
The second oldest fort of the state of Rajasthan, the Jaisalmer Fort dates back to 1156 and lies atop the Trikuta Hills in Jaisalmer city in the heart of Thar Desert. Jaisalmer was an important town on the ancient trade route for central Asia and therefore prospered quickly over the period of time. Rich merchants with their camel caravans used this route to reach central Asian countries. The city became a princely state of Rajasthan during British period. The land of Jaisalmer is still known for the bravery and valor of its rulers. The imposing Jaisalmer Fort features 99 bastions and 30 feet high strong walls made of crenellated sandstones. Ninety-two bastions of the fort were constructed between 1633 AD and 1647 AD. The fort also has a number of wells that served as a source of water and are still functional. Within the walls of this golden-yellow sandstone fort lies the old city of Jaisalmer. It makes nearly 25 percent of modern Jaisalmer.

Kumbhalgarh Fort, Udaipur
Kumbhalgarh Fort is located about 64 km north of Udaipur. This fort, which gave shelter to baby king Udai of Mewar, was second among the most significant forts in Mewar region. In this fort was born Maharana Pratap, the legendary king of Mewar. Visitors enjoy the wonderful sights of the surrounding regions from this fort. The fort, that was renovated in the 19th century by Maharana Fateh Singh, features very wide walls. Within the compound of the fort are the ruins of many old structures.

City Palace, Jaipur
Jaipur city is famous for a number of monumental buildings and the City Palace is one of them located in the heart of the city. Demonstrating a mix of traditional Rajasthani and Mughal art and architecture, this imposing structure features a number of lavish buildings as well as several courtyards and gardens. The palace covers a large area. The outer wall of the palace was constructed by Jai Singh. Lots of other additions were done in the later centuries. The palace has now been turned into a museum with nice collection of weapons, paintings, dresses, historical documents, etc. You can also see here two big urns made of silver. These are believed to be the biggest silver vessels in the whole world. The palace also features Nakkarkhana-ka-Darwaza, an impressive gateway with stone elephants on both sides.

City Palace, Udaipur
Located atop a hill, the City Palace of Udaipur is a majestic building that was started by Udai Singh. Lots of additions were done in it by different rulers of later centuries. This white imperial building lies near the bank of Lake Pichola and is enclosed within the crenellated walls. The later additions done in the fort were so beautifully executed that nobody today can believe that these additions were not part of the original building plan. The palace beautifully demonstrates the rich legacy of Rajput art and culture. Influence of European and Chinese architecture styles can be seen on different buildings within the palace. Visitors enter the palace complex through ‘Elephant Gate’ locally known as ‘Hathi Pol’. Near the gate is located the Jagdish Temple devoted to Lord Vishnu. Entry to first courtyard is done through the ‘Great Gate’ or ‘Bara Pol’. The palace features different marble arches and gardens in addition to an arena meant for elephant fighting. The rooms feature highly beautiful interiors.

Hawa Mahal, Jaipur
Dating back to 1799, the impressive Hawa Mahal in Jaipur is considered the most sensational structure by many tourists. This building was constructed by Sawai Pratap Singh, the son of Sawai Madhoo Singh. The architectural plan of the Hawa Mahal was designed by Mr. Lal Chand Usta. Hawa Mahal is basically a palace featuring multi layers and a beehive like structure. Red and pink sandstones have been used in the structure. The outlining has been done very beautifully with white borders and motifs.

Lake Palace, Udaipur
Constructed by Maharana Jagat Singh, the Lake Palace of Udaipur dates back to 1743 and is situated on the Jag Niwas Island in the middle of the Pichola Lake. The palace covers a total of 1.5 hectare of area and was built as the royal summer palace of the maharaja. This palace is said to be one among the most beautiful palaces in the world and has now been changed into a five star palace hotel. Excellent works of intricate craftsmanship can be seen in different sections of the palace. Use of textiles and handicraft items in the whole palace adds to its beauty that is difficult to be compared with other buildings. The rippling waves in the lake and picture of the palace on clear turquoise waters of Pichola Lake make a sight that cannot be described in words.