Introduction

Amer, or Amber Fort was the capital of the Kachchwaha Rajput rulers of Rajasthan, before water scarcity forced them to moved down from the mountains and establish the city of Jaipur. Sited atop the Aravalli hills, this majestic Rajput fortress stands guard over the newer city below. Built by Raja Man Singh Ji, the fort has rough, craggy walls and the glistening Maotha Lake in front. Later extensions and embellishments to the fort include traditional Rajput architecture and striking Mughal décor.

A visit to this might hilltop fortress forms either the start or the end of a trip to Jaipur. Its ornate, red sandstone and white marble palaces, halls and temples that boast a skilful combination of Mughal and Rajput architecture with carvings, stone inlays, and paintings share space with beautifully landscaped gardens.

The journey up to the fort is an experience itself. The climb up is long, steep, winding around the old Aravalli hills. Visitors undertake this climb by jeep or the more novel way - on elephant back. An elephant ride is also a good way to view the city’s huge ramparts and get great photographs.

Elephant rides start from the banks of the Maota Lake and the elephants amble slowly up the path, giving you numerous opportunities to capture the scenic surroundings in your camera. Even from atop an elephant's back, the ramparts of the fort seem to tower over you. The ride ends at the Jaleb Chowk. Each elephant can seat two adults (in addition to the mahout) and charges are per elephant.

The entrance to the fort is marked by the Suraj Pol - a traditionally decorated gate which leads to Jaleb Chowk where returning armies were welcomed, beyond which lies a maze of palaces, temples and gardens. Just past the Chowk is the Shila Mata Temple, a 16th century temple dedicated to Goddess Kali and featuring silver doors and marble carvings. Like most forts in India, the first part of the palace is the Diwan-i-Am - the hall where the Maharajas conducted Darbar. Alabaster panels with intricate carvings and inlay works and latticed galleries are some of the hall’s features.

The towering, three-storeyed Ganesh Pol or the Elephant Gate marks the entrance to the next section. This was the point of assembly for the queen and her ladies to greet the battle-worn king with flowers and scented water. This gate marks the entrance to the private apartments of the royalty, which are grouped around a Mughal-style garden. Access to the gardens is restricted, and this to a very large extent has helped preserve it.

Perhaps the most notable palace within Amer is the Sheesh Mahal or the Palace of Mirrors. Its interiors are lined with thousands of pieces of mirrors and colored glass. A single source of light brings this small palace to life with thousands of flickering reflections. While here, do take time out to examine the intricately designed pillars. One of them features a uniquely designed flower carved at its base, wherein each different viewing angle shows a different flower of creature!

Just above the Sheesh Mahal is the Hall of Private Audience or Jas Mandir, which features fantastic alabaster work, exquisite floral glass inlay designs, and intricate marble lattices. On this level, there are many other chambers, rooms and galleries which were once inhabited by numerous princes and other royalty.

Beyond these is the Char Bagh garden, laid out in the four-quartered style favored by the Mughals. From here you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and its surrounding hills. Across the garden is the Pleasure Palace or Sukh Mahal, which apart from being beautifully designed includes an ingenious cooling system. The old town with its many temples lies beyond the Chand Pol, the last gate of the fort.

While here, tourists can experience a ‘Mehfil’, similar to the entertainment that the kings enjoyed in the Gunijan Khana in the past. The classical dance performances are held every morning. There are three shows of 15 minutes each at 0900, 1000 and 1100 hours. Tickets to the concert can be bought from Amer Fort’s ticket window.

Special Attributes

A 17th century hilltop fortress that blends traditional Rajput styles with Mughal embellishments.

Nuisance

Peddlers, Touts

Dressing restrictions

None, wear whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Buses, Taxis, Jeeps, Elephants

Enjoyed by

All

Exposure

Amer Fort involves a lot of walking. Except some minor structures, most of it would be out in the sun. Remember to cover your head, wear sunscreen, and carry a bottle of water.

Avoidable Season

April, May, June

Facilities

Free lockers for storing cameras.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

Opt for the audio guides in case you wish to tour the fort unaccompanied by a tourist guide. The audio guides are available in English and Hindi.

Type of site

Monument