Jaipur is one of the most popular destinations of India frequented by tourists from all over the world. Jaipur is well known for its architectural beauty, rich and vibrant history. One thing that goes synonymous with the city is its magnificent forts and palaces that have a great contribution in shaping the rrich cultural heritage of the city and boost tourism from both the sectors national and international. In 16th century, a fort was built by a trusted general of Akbar, Maan Singh. Later, Maan started to rule the area surrounding the fort which was called as the Amer state. The fort is now called as the Amer Fort and the city is called as Jaipur. Amer fort or Amber fort is located a little away from the main c city of Jaipur. It is an important tourist destination in this city.
The Amer Fort, situated in Amber, 11 kilometers from Jaipur, is one of the most famous fforts of Rajasthan. Amer, originally, was the capital of the state before Jaipur. It is an old fort, built in 1592 by Raja Man Singh. This fort is also very popularly known as the Amer Palace. The Amer Fort was built in red sandstone and marble and the Maotha Lake adds a certain charm to the entire Fort.
What’s the History behind the Amer Fort :
Amer was originally the capital of Rajasthan until the 18th century. The Amer Fort or Amber Fort was constructed in the 16th century by Raja Man Singh I who was one of the Navratnas (nine gems) of the Mughal Emperor Akbar. It was further expanded and renovated by Raja Singh I and other successive rulers. Amer Fort had served as a royal residence to Rajput rulers until Jaipur was declared as the Capital of Rajasthan.
Architecture of Amer Fort :
The Amer fort is built of red sandstone and marble. It is a perfect blend of the outlooks of the Rajput (Hindu) and Mughal (Islamic) architectures. It has a very grand layout comprising of royal courtyards, temples, palaces, gardens and chambers. This fort’s spectacular architecture will leave you completely spell bound by it’s beauty.
Diwan – e – Aam (Public Audience Hall):
As the name suggests, Diwan-e-Aam is the area where the ruler used to address and hear the petitions from common people. This hall stands on a raised platform having evenly built pillars made of marble and red stone.
Ganesh Pol:
Ganesh Pol is a very exquisitely decorated entrance gate to the third courtyard which houses the private premises of the ruler. It is named after Lord Ganesha who is a symbol of wisdom and new beginnings. As you pass through Ganesh pol, you will see a beautiful Mughal style garden separating two buildings, one is Sheesh Mahal and the other is Sukh Niwas.
Sheesh Mahal:
Sheesh Mahal is the most amazing part of Amer Fort. The walls and ceilings are decorated with intricate mirror works and colored glasses. The women of the palace were not allowed to go outside in the night. The ruler called out for the finest architects to build Sheesh Mahal with mirror work. The women used to lit one candle during the night in Sheesh Mahal, the spark of which reflected on the ceilings making it look like the night sky full of twinkling and sparkling stars.
On top of the Sheesh Mahal is the Jas Mandir which was a place for relaxation for the ladies of the palace. This part of the palace is also very beautifully designed and decorated with floral patterns and mirror works.
Visitor Information
- Famous for : History, Photography, Seeking Experience
- Fee : 550/Person for Foreign Tourists & Rs.100 for Indians
- Visiting Time : 10 AM – 5 PM (Daily)
- Visit Duration : 2 to 3 hours
Timing
The fort is located 11 km from the city of Jaipur. The fort is opened to visitation from 9 in the morning till 6 in the evening. For more details about visitation hours, contact, 0141-2530293. Elephant ride is available from morning 9:30 till afternoon 1:00. The light show in Hindi starts from 8 in the evening and the English light show starts from 7:30 in the evening.
Entrance Fee and Charges
- Foreigner – INR 550 per person
- Foreign Students – INR 100 per person
- Indians – INR 50 per person
- Indian Students – INR 10 rupees per person
- Light Show in English – INR 200 per person
- Light Show in Hindi – INR 100 per person
- Elephant Ride – INR 1100 Single or per couple
