The astonishing and eye-grabbing destination for the permanent bliss if you have then that is only the forts and Palaces. Experience the bliss of soaking up in your favorite Palaces and Forts this summer.
The stunning and wonderful attraction is architectural art of Rajputs like the Mughals who has captive and exemplary impressive forts and inbuilt palaces in Rajasthan. Infact generally in all cities of Rajasthan there are forts and palaces. These forts and palaces are located in the outskirt of the main region of the city.
There are huge numbers of people who visit the timeless Rajasthan to embrace the all sort of climate of it. The rich heritage of Rajasthan cannot be avoided, as there is mesmerizing artwork and craft in the forts and palaces. It symbolizes its worth and real beauty of its culture and heritage. It reminds us royalty of the magical essence from the past.
Do know more about famous Forts and Palaces from Rajasthan.
Jaigarh Fort (Jaipur)
Jaigarh fort is located in a diversion from Jaipur and Delhi Highway and is 15 km far from Jaipur city. In the midst, Jaipur-Delhi Highway there is a Jaivan cannon at the Dungar Gate. Jaigarh Fort is amazing to look at as it delivers the complete sensuality of the different views. You can take a move from Amer fort with climbing a hill, which arrives at the Awami Gate nearby fort museum. The complete view of Jaipur can be concluded from this amazing fort and from Amber fort from the Diwa Burj clocktower. The fort is perched in the peaks of the Aravalli hills, standing 400 m above the Amber Fort. The fort is having cannon, Jaivana which I already mentioned above about; this is the largest cannon on wheels in the world.
You cannot shun the beauty of palace complex of a museum and armory of the warriors of the assembly hall. All stuffs give amazing experience and make you feel like wander more. The fort complex is dotted with some spectacular locations inside the fort like Vilas Mandir, Laxmi Vilas, Lalit Mandir, and Aram Mandir along with huge garden where the residing of royal family, an assembly hall of warriors- Shubhat Niwas enhance the spirit of fort. In ancient time, there was a huge treasure of gold laid under the floor in fort premises but later it is also said it is part of the rumor. Thus, earlier public was abandoned from entering the premises for seven years but now it is opened to demonstrate the beautiful palaces, gardens, temples, an armory and its granary to make people aware about the exotic pieces of arms, and weapons.
Best time to visit Jaigarh Fort (Jaipur): November – February
Opening Hours: 9 am to 4.30 pm
Amber Fort (Jaipur)
Amber Fort is 11km away from the city centre of Jaipur. Raja Man Singh was the person who initiated the construction work in 1592 but during the reign of Sawai Jai Singh completed it with devotion. You cannot spare yourself with the gorgeous antiques of fort belonging. Paintings, intricate carvings, mosaic, art of murals, frescoes and the detailed craft of mirror work splashed all over the walls enthrall every visitor. The attractive combination of Hindu and Mughal elements is particularly designed to give bizarre look. Its apparent inside view is so stunning and the elephant ride up to the fort is the cynosure for the tourist. The ceiling imparts the sunrays all around the premises.
The establishment of red sandstone and white marble has grand entrance via Suraj Pol, opening in to the Jaleb Chowk which is the main courtyard. Inside the stunning Amer fort is the Diwan-i-Aam or the Hall of Public Audience where the king used to attain the meeting for discussing important issues with his courtiers. The marvelous handmade mirror work is embroiled on the ceiling for the unforgettable charm.
The venue includes equally impressive Sheesh Mahal, Jai Mandir, and The Sukh Niwas. The most proficient thing is that there are two temples in the same fort, one is small kali temple and another one is Shila Mata temple. First Mandir is the place where Maharaja Man Singh used to pray before he went on war. The latter was particularly the mark of Jessore in East Bengal and the idol was especially brought by the king Man Singh according to the beliefs. Dil-i-Aaram and Kesar Kyari are two eye-catching gardens in the Amer fort. Dil-i-Aaram stores remembrances from past in one corner of the fort i.e. Archaeological Museum of Amer which is categorized in three sections called archaeological, epigraphy and sculpture.
Best time to visit Amer Fort (Jaipur): November – February
Opening Hours: 9 am to 4.30 pm
Ranthambore Fort (Sawai Madhopur)
The Chauhans erected Ranthambore fort in 8th century. It is located in greenery of the Ranthambore National Park at hill top. According to the ancient history, the fort was in danger with the attacking of the huge powers and was ultimately captured by Mughals, which became the residing place for them. This was later turned into fortress prison. Maharaja of Jaipur regained the fort in the 19th century and it was with him until the independence of India in the year of 1947. The name of the fort is originated from the name of hills Thanebhore, where the fort placed. For the completely descriptive view, the tourist need to climb up the stairs of the hill as there is no passage made for pedestrians. The fort is combined with various antiques and striking objects. At some point you will feel the height of awesomeness as the midst location of the wildlife sanctuary provides you the privilege of not bothered with entry fee or any other unpleasant stuff.
The different and admirable activities in the fort will let you undergo enthralling moment. There are number of temples in the fort and the variety of attractions is keeping in pace with the visitor’s interest, which is something you want to wander your passion not only once but often time. For the history buff there is an unlimited layer of characters and story unfold which signifies the worthwhile experience and knowledge. There is a source of entertainment for the adventurous people who love to enjoy animals rambling for drinking water from the lake activities.
The overall area of fort is grounded with 7 km. In this area you can see religious temples, palaces, mosques, barracks and different option of attractive view for the travelers. The Hammir court is center of attraction for the visitors of Ranthanbore Fort. The visit to Ganesha temple is remarkable. Many people may not be aware that devotees of Lord Ganesha write wishes letter to him and send it to temple. The daily process of sending to mail carrier is amazing. There are lot more conventional attraction where you want stop yourself for lifetime i.e Toran Dwar, Mahadeo Chattri, Sameton Ki Haveli, 32 pillared Chattri and a Mosque.
Best time to visit Ranthambore Fort: November – February
Opening Hours: 10 am to 5.30 pm
Chittaurgarh Fort (Udaipur)
Chittaurgarh Fort located near Udaipur was built by the Mori Rajput ruler, Chitrangad during the period of 5th and the 8th century. The fort was also known Chitrakot during that time. Later, Sisodia Rajput ruler, Ajai Pal Chauhan fashioned some amendments in it.
At that time people can extend far for their honor so the Fort has pronounced three sieges and ‘jauhars’ which according to the Rajput tradition is sacrificing life of royal maidens and ladies after their husband’s death. This act was prevalent in order to save their honor from the cruelty of the enemy when there is no option left of defeating the enemy. You can measure the volume of cruelty where every walls and impressions of fort witness their worst condition. Like the kings, queens of ancient time can do anything for securing their honor.
The first battle was occurred by the Sultan of Delhi, Ala-ud-din Khilji in the 14th century when he had a lustrous affection with the beautiful wife of Ratan Singh when he saw her in a water tank.
Sultan Bahdaur Shah of Gujarat molested the second time the fort in 1535. During that time, Sikramjeet was the ruler of the Chittaurgarh. The third attack was initiated by the Mughal ruler Akbar in 1567.
There are as many as seven brawny gates of the Chittorgarh Fort. The two towers named ‘Kirti Stambh’ (Tower of Fame) and the ‘Vijay Stambh’ (Tower of Victory) are dotted with various temples, reservoirs, and palaces made between 9th to 17th centuries. Various stories lie behind this fort.
Best time to visit Chittaurgarh Fort (Udaipur): November – February
Opening Hours: 8:00 am to 7:30 pm
Mehrangarh Fort (Jodhpur)
Mehrangarh Fort is a welcoming treat for tourists. The Fort sited 400 feet above the ground is the largest. Thick walls enclose several elaborately carved structures and expansive courtyards. There are seven gates or pols built over different times to mark an important event. Like the Jayapol was built by Maharaja Man Singh to observe his triumphs over Jaipur and Bikaner armies and Maharaja Ajit Singh constructed Fatehpol to mark his victory over Mughals. The hand imprints on them and cannonball hitting during the war with Jaipur armies instigate deep curiosity in tourists.
A part of fort is maintained as museum. The decorated rooms are well-stocked with assortment of arms, royal costumes and period paintings. A section of museum displays vast collection of royal palanquins; some of which are won in war while others belong to diverse rulers of Marwar. One beautiful palanquin with elaborate dome ‘Mahadol’ instantly attract attention, it was won in a battle from the Governor of Gujarat in 1730. This part also exhibits the royal howdahs and cradles.
Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesha Mahal, Sileh Khana, and Daulat Khana are brilliant examples of art that excites everyone.
Best Time to Stay at Mehrangarh Fort (Jodhpur): October – March
Opening Hours – 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Jaisalmer Fort (Jaisalmer)
Jaisalmer Fort is very famous fort and one of the largest forts in the world. It is located in Jaisalmer city in the state of Rajasthan. This fort was built in 1156 AD by the Bhati Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal. Jaisalmer Fort is the influence of his name. The yellow sandstone structure appears tawny lion color in the daytime which turn to honey-gold when the sun sets. Due to this reason, it is also named as the “Golden Fort”. The golden tone of fort tries to hide it in the yellow desert. This fort is popular with the name the ‘Sonar Quila’ by the local people out there. Located in the heart of the city Jaisalmer fort is truly wonderful representative of Jaisalmer on world tourism map. The fort stands proudly amidst the golden stretches of the Thar Desert on Trikuta Hill. There had been many battles occurred during that period.
You cannot be disillusioned from the miraculous attractions of the fort. Akshaya Pole, Suraj Pole, Hawa Pole and Ganesha Pole are the four major gateways. Tourists can recognize Suraj and the Ganesha Pole by impressions of Sun and Lord Ganesha at the top of the respective gate.
The seven Jain Temples are like a seven wonders of Rajasthan, which secure a powerful place in the heritage culture of Jaisalmer. These are extremely devoted to Jain Tirthankaras like Sambhavanath, Rikhabdev, Chandrprabhu and Parasnath. Each temple is associated or mingled in the series of courtyards and walkways.
Erstwhile residence of the royal family, Raj Mahal is now turned into the museum and heritage centre.
Merchant Havelis
The ornate sandstone carvings were used in creation of residences built by rich merchants in Rajasthani towns and cities in North India. Those Havelis you were seeing in ancient time have turned into shops and museum.
Best time to visit Jaisalmer Fort (Jaisalmer): October – March
Opening Hours: Early morning till 5 pm
Junagarh Fort (Bikaner)
Junagarh Fort situated in Bikaner was created by Raja Rai Singh in 1587. The thick walls of fort lock many structures inside and two huge royal gates let the entry to the premises. To facilitate easy pedestrian entry a pathway from the main gate, Suraj Pol or Sun Gate is laid. The fort is surrounded by a high wall and deep trenches.
Can you imagine the 37 red sandstone marvels inside the fort premises? You cannot stay away from the beauty of balconies, carved windows towers, pavilions and temples. Every element had been taken care in nurturing the fort with intense detailing. The fusion of mirror work, bright paintings and inlay marble panels, enthralling Phool Mahal, Karan Mahal and Anup Mahal is a great source of joy and pride. Many people might not know that Anup Mahal had been used once for the board room of the rulers.
Ganga Niwas, Dungar Niwas, Vijai Mahal and Rang Mahal are ultimate experience to view the potential of architecture. The fort museum exhibits antique pieces like manuscripts, jewelry, utensils, carpets, arms and weapons, treaties and accessories that gives complete definition to the kingly majesty.
Best time to visit Junagarh Fort (Bikaner): November – February
Opening Hours: 10:00 am – 4:30 pm
City Palace (Jaipur)
City Palace is a virtuous palace complex in the heart of Jaipur city. Its history is unending chain of mixed experiences. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II has started construction of the city complex by cementing the outer wall of the complex spreading over many acres and also planned Jaipur city. The city is designed in nine blocks parted by broad boulevards on the cardinal principle of Vastushastra and other similar classical discourse practiced in earlier days. Great architect Vidhyadar Bhattacharya directed the entire construction.
Among the several palaces, this is bizarre due to its pavilions, gardens and temples. The main attraction of the complex is the Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, Mukut Mahal, Maharani’s Palace, Shri Govind Dev Temple and the City Palace Museum. All are connected in design and deliver blissfulness everywhere.
Best Time to Visit City Palace (Jaipur): October – March
Opening Hours: 9.30 am to 5 pm
Hawa Mahal (Jaipur)
In the heart of Jaipur’s business centre there is ultimate red and pink sandstone palace Hawa Mahal. Hawa Mahal or the wind palace forms part of the City Palace, and lead to the Zenana or the chambers of women, and the harem. The amazing experience of inhaling the golden sunlight of Mahal cannot ever slip from your mind once. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, the ruler of Rajasthan of the Kachwaha clan, was the planner and builder who built the Jaipur city in 1727. Sawai Pratap Singh, the grandson of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, contributed in building the Hawa Mahal in 1799 as a continuation of the Royal City Palace.
The 50 feet (15 m) monument with five-story pyramidal shape has glorified Jaipur. The person visited to this place will not forget its elegance ever. The front view from the street gives exotic look and feel with small portholes. Each porthole is carrying windows and has carved sandstone grills, finials and domes. There are total 152 windows in the entire structure.
The royal family women access to the market and entertain themselves with the multiple activities like dancing and singing while looking through the high windows. Hawa Mahal is guarded by very strong wall; all the outside luxuries were provided inside for the women in the family.
Best time to stay and visit Hawa Mahal (Jaipur): October – March
Opening Hours 9:00 am to 4:30 pm Daily
City Palace (Udaipur)
The City Palace in Udaipur was created marvelously parallel to the establishment of Udaipur city. This breathtaking beauty is a fusion of the Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles. It was erected on hill top for an unlimited bliss. The panoramic view of the city and its surrounding area includes the historic Lake Palace in Lake Pichola, the Jag Mandir on an island in the lake, the Jagdish Temple close to the palace, the Monsoon Palace on top of an overlooking mound nearby and the Neemach Mata temple.
The Palace was built by Maharana Udai Singh II in 1559 and his successor Maharanas over a period of 300 years. This is the largest royal complex in Rajasthan and deserves to be in the popularity list.
There are number of chowks or quadrangles with zigzag that interlinks many small structures erected inside. When you enter through the main Tripolia (triple) gate there are the Suraj Gokhda , the Mor-chowk (Peacock courtyard), the Dilkhush Mahal, the Surya Chopar, the Sheesh Mahal (Palace of glass and mirrors), the Moti Mahal (Palace of Pearls), the Krishna Vilas, Shambu Niwas (now a royal residence), the Bhim Vilas, the Amar Vilas facing the Badi Mahal, the Fateprakash Palace and the Shiv Niwas Palace. Fateprakash Palace and the Shiv Niwas Palace are now maintained as heritage hotels.
The esteem of Mewar royal family and its classiness is amazing to preserve. The eldest royal structure built in the complex was the Royal courtyard or Rai Angan.
Best Time to Visit Forts and Palaces of Rajasthan: November – February
Opening Hours: 9 am to 4.30 pm
Luxury is meant to be inhaled without any qualms. This awesome list of forts and palaces will turn your head often to remain in its company. You will amazingly head over heels fall in love with these palaces and forts. Junagarh Fort, Nahargarh Fort, Rambagh Palace, Jai Mahal Palace, Umaid Bhawan Palace, Lalgarh Palace and Udai Vilas Palace complete the comprehensive list. Rajasthan is the best destination to flush your worry out and make a move forward to excel.
Capturing the Mughals era is not bad deal anyway. The heritage and cuisine mesmerizes the soul deep within which gives a divine and delightful experience. Escaping yourself away from this is missing the major enjoyment from your life.
