Amber Fort

LocationOn Delhi-Jaipur Highway, 11 km from Jaipur, Rajasthan
Built By: Raja Maan Singh
Attractions :Shila devi temple, Diwan-e-aam, Diwan-e-khaas, Jaleb chowk, Surajpol
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Timings: 07: 00 A.M. To 07: 00 P.M.
Entry Fee: For Indians Rs. 100, For Foreigners Rs. 150 including the charges of admission, camera and video.
How to Reach Amber Fort: You can opt for organized tours run by RTDC or take buses to reach the fort.

Introduction

Located in Amber, at a distance of about 11 km, from Jaipur, the mammoth fort of Amer (also called Amber) is one of its kind. The fort is more of a palace fashioned in red sandstone and white marbles. Initiated by Raja Man Singh , the fort was extended and completed by the Jai Singhs before they shifted to Jaipur. The colossal fort is tucked atop a hill and cradles Maotha lake bordering it. Climb up the fort and you get a panoramic view of places beneath. If you are the one who is smitten by adventurous jeep and elephant safaris, then the fort has geared up itself for that also. Take a royal ride on an elephant's back and feel that aura of stately grandeur.

Architecture of Amber Fort
The architecture of the fort is a offshoot of Rajput and Islamic architecture. The robust and sturdy exteriors of the fort are in a sheer contrast to the pleasing and elegant interiors. Murals, frescoes and paintings, depicting various scenes from daily life, adorn the walls of the fort. Some walls of the fort are even embellished with intricate carvings, mosaic, and minute mirror work. The fort has been divided into four sections each easily accessible form the central stairways. These are now used for the elephant ride in the fort. The remarkable fort was reputed to be the treasure repository of the Kacchwaha rulers.


Attractions of Amber Fort :
The main attraction of the fort is the exciting elephant ride. Riding on the back of this royal mammal is a must do activity on your trip to Amber fort. You will experience for yourself that this phenomenal ride will fill your heart with a feeling of happiness, excitement and royalty. The ride may cost you Rs.400/- per elephant. But believe me! It is worth it. They are not charging anything higher than what is required.
The main attraction of the fort is the exciting elephant ride. Riding on the back of this royal mammal is a must do activity on your trip to Amber fort. You will experience for yourself that this phenomenal ride will fill your heart with a feeling of happiness, excitement and royalty. The ride may cost you Rs.400/- per elephant. But believe me! It is worth it. They are not charging anything higher than what is required.
Another attractions of the fort lie in the four section built exquisitely. Through main entrance the tourists come to the Surajpol which lead them to Jaleb chowk (the area where returning armies were paraded back home) which is the main courtyard of the Fort where the staircase to the palace is located. Before the palace entranceway, there is a steep narrow staircase which takes the tourists to the Kali Temple or the Shila Devi mandir which is famous for two imposing silver images of lions. Visitors are awestruck at the glimpse of Ganesha image carved entirely from a single piece of coral at the temple entrance.
Not to miss are the halls of the forts. The Diwan-e-am was a hall open for public. The galleries of the above the the hall are beautiful. The petitions of the subjects was listened to here. The higher terrace of the fort house the Jai Mandir or the hall of victory. It is simply hard to resist to not to behold the beauty of mosaics and sculptures. Opposite to it is the Sukh Niwas - the hall of pleasures - which has an ivory inlaid sandalwood door. The Zenana Apartment in the fort was for the females of the royal family. Come to the most beautiful hall - the Hall of Mirrors - which could be lit at night by a single candle because of all the tiny, intricate mirrors.

Places to see around Amber Fort :

Jaigarh Fort: The imposing fort of Jaigarh was built in 1726 by Jai Singh. Easily connected and closely located to the Amber fort, the Jaigarh fort is a must visit on your trip to Amber fort. The tourist's delight in the fort are the water reservoirs, puppet theater and a huge cannon.

Jal Mahal: On your way to Amber fort, the Water Palaces located amidst Man Sagar lake grabs your attention. The palace was built in 18th century and is noted for the unique architecture in red sandstone. The first four floors of the mahal remain under the lake water only the fifth floor remains on top.

Jagatsiromani Temple: The temple is remarkable for the carved image of Lord Krishna and is associated with Mirabai, the saint poetess. The Temple was constructed by Shri Kankawatiji, Maharani of Maharaja Man Singh I to commemorate the death of her son Maharaja Kumar Jagat Singhji in 1601. The northern Indian (Nagar) style architecture is intricate here.

Panna Mian ki Baoli: It is the step well of 17th century with octagonal corner kiosks and a double-storey veranda.

Sanwalji Temple:
This Jain temple is also much revered and a must visit for the visitors.