Location
: On Delhi - Jaipur Highway
Built in : 1592
Highlights : Wonderful carvings and minute mirror work
Perfect Time to Visit : October to March
Amber fort is situated in the picturesque land of Amber (Jaipur). In 1592,
the construction of this fort was started by Raja Man Singh I, but its
current form was completed during the reign of Raja Jai Singh. With a rugged
exterior, the interiors of this fort are simply alluring, with a fascinating
blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. The interior wall of this fort
depicts expressive painting scenes with carvings, precious stones and mirror
settings. Almost 7 centuries back, this fort had all the means of survival
and luxuries for the royal families and the people who were concerned with
the functioning of this small kingdom of the Kachhawas. The Rajputs later on
renovated it into the grand Amber Fort. Although many of the early
structures have been literally ruined but at the same time, those dating
from the 16th century on are remarkably preserved by sincere efforts.
The fort has 4 sections, each with the premises. The Surajpol (main gate),
leads to the Jaleb chowk, (the main courtyard from where one can walk up the
stairway), which leads to the palace. Jaleb Chowk was also the area where
returning armies were welcomed and they would display their war earnings to
the population at large. The enjoyable elephant ride to Amber Fort is a
must, if you are visiting this place. This royal cum adventure safari takes
visitors through the main entrance and offers the attraction of Surajpol.
The Amber Fort is a perfect example of intricate craftsmanship. Apart from
the open-air ground, temples and lake, the halls of Amber Fort has
must-visit centers. Diwan-i-am or the hall for public highlights the royal
court of law, where the issues relating to the subjects were listened and
solved. The higher terrace of the fort has a Jai Mandir(the hall of
victory), which now houses the collections of sculptures and artifacts of
mosaic works. Opposite to it is the majestic Sukh Niwas (the hall of
pleasures). Its intricate sandalwood door made of ivory draws major
attention of the visitors.
Shila Mata Temple, which has its entry through Singh Pol. Devoted to “Kali
Mata” Ganesh Pol and Suhaag Mandir are other major attraction of the
fort. Sheesh Mahal never fails to amuse onlookers. The hall that is filled
with thousands of tiny mirrors all over, such that a single tiny candle
would illuminate the entire hall.
How to Reach
Located on the Delhi Jaipur Highway, Amber for is just 11 km from Jaipur.
There are different transportation means to reach Jaipur & then further
to Amber Fort.
Air : The nearest airport is in the city of Jaipur.
Rail : Well connected with places like Delhi, Agra, Udaipur etc.,
through Indian railways network.
Road : You can reach Amber Fort either by taking local buses from
the city or by hiring Taxis.
