Amer Fort in Jaipur
Amer Fort, also known as Amber Fort, is a majestic palace located in the city of Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. The Amer Fort is one of the most popular tourist attractions in India. This fort is located on a hilltop, overlooking the Maota Lake offering an amazing panoramic view of the surrounding area.
It was built in the 16th century by Raja Man Singh I, who was a trusted general in the army of Emperor Akbar. The fort was later expanded and renovated by successive rulers, including Raja Jai Singh I and Raja Jai Singh II.
Visiting Detail
- Location: Devisinghpura, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302001
- Closed on: All 7 days open
- Timings: 8:00 am to 5:30 pm | 6:30 pm to 9:15 pm
- Entry Fee: Foreigners – Rs 550 per person | Foreign Students: Rs. 100 per person | Indians: Rs.50 per person | Indian Students: Rs. 10 per person
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Is Photography allowed: Allowed
Significance of Amer Fort
Amer Fort served as the primary residence of the Rajput Maharajas of Jaipur until the 18th century. The fort was built to provide protection to the Rajput kingdom from invaders.
Main attractions of the fort
- The Amer fort is a blend of Hindu and Rajput architectural styles and is made of red sandstone and marble.
- There is an impressive entrance called the Ganesh Pol, or the Sun Gate.
- The gate leads to a courtyard where you’ll find the famous Diwan-i-Aam, or the Hall of Public Audience, where the maharajas would meet with the public. The hall is decorated with beautiful frescoes and mirrors, and is an excellent example of the fusion of Mughal and Rajput styles.
- As you make your way through the fort, you’ll come across the Sukh Niwas, or the Hall of Pleasure, which was designed to keep the maharajas cool during the hot summers. The hall has a unique water cooling system, where water cascades down from the ceiling to cool the air.
- One of the most impressive structures in the fort is the Sheesh Mahal, or the Palace of Mirrors. This hall is entirely covered in mirrors and precious stones, and is said to have been built for the maharaja’s queen. The hall is designed in such a way that even a single candle can light up the entire room.
- Finally, the Kesar Kyari Bagh is a beautiful garden that is situated in the middle of Maota Lake. The garden is designed in a geometric pattern and is adorned with stunning flowers and fountains. Visitors can take a boat ride around the lake.
Read also: The glimpse into the City Palace of Jaipur, India
The Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors)
As the name suggests, this palace is entirely adorned with mirrors of different shapes and sizes that reflect light in the most mesmerizing way possible.
It is said that this palace was built in such a way that even a single candle could illuminate the entire palace due to the reflection of light from the mirrors.
This palace was designed for the royal ladies to enjoy the beauty of the stars and the moon without stepping out of the palace.
The walls of the Sheesh Mahal are decorated with beautiful paintings depicting the life of Kings and Queens of that era.
The Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience)
This hall was used by the king to meet the common people and listen to their grievances. It is a large open hall that has a raised platform at one end where the king used to sit on his throne.
The wall and the ceiling of the hall is adorned with beautiful paintings that depict the events from Hindu mythology.
One of the most interesting features of the Diwan-i-Am is the Jharokha, which is a balcony that overlooks the courtyard. It was used by the king to address the people and make important announcements.
The Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience)
This hall was specifically designed for the king to meet his private audience. The hall is also famous for its two huge silver urns, which are considered to be the largest silver objects in the world. The urns are so large that it is said that they were used to carry water for the king’s entire army.
One of the most interesting features of the hall is its acoustics. Even the slightest whisper can be heard clearly by someone standing at the opposite end of the hall. This feature was used by the king to communicate secretly with his courtiers.
The Ganesh Pol
It is a magnificent gate that is located in the first courtyard of the fort. The gate is beautifully decorated with carvings and vibrant paintwork depicting various mythological scenes from Hindu stories and legends. The gate is named after Lord Ganesh, the Hindu god of wisdom and beginnings, and is dedicated to him.
The Sukh Niwas (Hall of Pleasure)
As soon as you step into the hall, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a whole new world and it is the Sukh Niwas. The hall is beautifully decorated with paintings and inlay work.
The Sukh Niwas is believed to have been the living quarters of the king during the summer months. It’s designed in such a way that it remains cool even during the hottest of summer days.
The hall has a water channel running through it that used to carry cool water from the mountains. The water runs through the channel and splashes against the walls, making the environment even cooler.
The hall also has a beautiful garden which is filled with various plants and flowers that are native to the region.
Tips for visiting Amer Fort
- It’s best to visit the fort early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat.
- It is advisable to hire a guide. The guides are well-versed in the history and architecture of the fort and can offer you valuable insights into the various sections of the fort. You can also rent an audio guide if you prefer to explore the fort on your own.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there’s a lot of walking involved and the pathways can be uneven.
- Carry a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- Also, be mindful of the monkeys that roam around the fort.
