Rajasthan the land of kings, forts, lakes, gardens and rich history. And a land of unmatched colors be it the festivals, attire, celebrations or the mood. Therefore when visiting the capital city of Jaipur, let’s check out why you must be visiting the Amer Fort for a royal experience of Rajasthan. It was a nostalgic trip for me going back after ten years and loved every bit of it.
A bit of history
Located ten kilometers from Jaipur in what was once a small town Amer is this gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage Site, Amer Fort. Founded by the Chanda dynasty of Meenas the palace passed on to Raja Man Singh later over the years. The fort was completed in 1599 during Raja Man Singh’s reign from 1589 to 1614 A.D. The marvelous sandstone and marble palace spread over four levels is a classical example of Rajput architecture with a touch of Mughal architecture in patches.
It had the Diwan-e-Aam, the hall of public audience; Diwan-e-Khas, the hall of private audience; Sheesh Mahal, the mirror palace & the Sukh Niwas where a cool climate was artificially created for comfort of the royals during the summer months. There were staircases leading from the King’s room to the twelve rooms where the queens resided. Come let’s take the climb up to the fort which isn’t too steep or difficult if you take a few stops in between. And most won’t even need that like yours truly didn’t. A test of fitness passed with flying colors followed by a self pat on the back.
But first the Maota Lake
Maota is the colloquil form of the word ‘Mahava’ which comes from the huge Baniyan trees that grew once upon a time on its edges. The lake collects rainwater flowing down from the nearby hills and was the main source of water for the palace. The Dil-Aram Bagh is situated on its northern end and the Kesar Kyari (Saffron Flowerbeds) Garden is in its middle. Time to walk to the steps past the gardens.
And this view of Jaigarh Fort
The Jaigarh Fort is considered a part of the complex as it is connected to Amer Fort through a subterranean passage. The passage was built in order to ensure that the royal family could escape in times of war if needed. There are steps for going up to the fort.
Also Read- Jai Niwas Garden Hotel – A heritage stay, Jaipur
The colors of Rajasthan
The journey up
The Bhairav Temple
Diwan-e-Aam
Shila Devi Temple
Shila Devi Temple inside Amer Fort is dedicated to Goddess Durga and was established in 1604 by Maharaja Man Singh. There are different versions on how the Maharaja acquired the Shila Mata’s statue. The doorway has an image of Lord Ganesha and the temple took 10 years to be built. During Navaratri festival the whole place is lit up and thousands visit everyday to offer prayers to the Goddess
We now move up to Diwan-e-Khas
Sukh Mandir
This is where the Royal families lived during the mid-day of the summer months. It had a large oblong chamber with two side rooms and a veranda in front overlooking the garden. Mughal patterns can be seen in the walls of the chamber.
Zenani Deorhi (Ladies Apartments)
The queen mothers and the Raja’s consorts lived in this part of the palace and it also housed their female attendants. The royal ladies often had estates assigned to them, the management of which was also carried out from here.
Time to exit
A boutique to check out
And memories to take back
Some Rajasthani folk on the go
These last few shots
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Head to 1135 AD Amber for a fine dining experience
Located on Level 2 of Amer Palace, it serves authentic Rajasthani, North Indian, Mughlai delicacies and desserts. A meal for two would cost around USD 30-35 (Rs 2.5k-3k) plus taxes, without liquor. Apart from tasty food being served in silver colored salvers, it is the ambiance that gives you a feel of how the royals dined. Add to that the warm royal welcome that you get to make you feel special.
Amer Fort Jaipur. A glimpse of glorious Rajasthan history, legacy, culture and cuisine for centuries. The king, the queens, the fort, the garden, the lake and stories of bravery.
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If we every plan a trip to Jaipur, we would not miss a visit to the Amer Fort. We love to visit UNESCO sites like this and learn more about their history. The Diwan-e-Khas looks stunning from the outside. And when we visited the Sukh Mandir we would certainly look for the Mughal patterns. One day might not be enough to really take it all in. But we would certainly not forget the colours of Rajasthan.
Yeah Linda it’s a lovely bit of history.
so cool. We have been to India, but never to Jaipur…and this castle looks like the perfect reason to add it to our list. Your photos were so helpful, and inspiring…thanks for taking us inside the castle with you! I forget if you said this, but does anyone still live there?
So glad Mike you loved this journey. It’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and no one lives there now.
Amer Fort currently boasts, in my opinion, the most stunning, outstanding, and exceptional architecture I have ever seen. And I adore how the fort’s inside is filled with so much more to discover! The views from the Diwan-e-Khas are magnificent! It may take an entire day to thoroughly observe everything because it is so lengthy. If you enjoy history as much as I do, it’s going to be a remarkable trip for sure.
Amer Fort will definitely be on my list if I get to visit Jaipur. I particularly love the views from the top with all the surrounding mountains. Unesco sites shows the way to the best heritage places and I like to support the maintenance of these places. Wonderful highlight of Amer Fort from your post!
Thank you Adele so much. Happy you loved reading and seeing a bit about the fort. It’s a wonderful experience being there and appreciating the architecture.
I have visited Amer fort twice during my trips to India and your photos has brought back so many beautiful memories. This was actually the first fort I have visited in Rajasthan, where I got to learn about the Mughal Empire. I still remember clearly the ladies apartments. From your photos I see there are no elephants on the path going up, and that makes me happy. I really hope that the elephant rides to the fort for the entertainment of the tourists have been stopped.
Happy to provide you some nostalgic moments. Unfortunately the elephant rides still exist but I didn’t venture that side.
I have seen this beautiful place featured on many tv programmes and have always dreamed of visiting. Its architecture is sublime and I love all the colours you have caught in your images of the local activities. I wonder has it changed at all in the 10 years since your last visit?
Thanks Angie you loved the feel of the fort through my photos. Actually nothing much has changed except that there are many more vendors selling Rajasthani clothes, dress and other stuff.
I visited Jaipur and Amer almost ten times and everytime I loved this place a little more. Amer is beautiful with it’s history, royal elegance and forts. Amer and Nahargarh forts are my favourite and Jaigarh also pretty perfect. Feeling nostalgic after reading and seeing the pictures you have clicked . Nice post
Yes Pamela Jaipur truly has a royal charm about it. So glad to give you some nostalgic moments reading the post.
Jaipur is a beautiful place with historic significance dating back to the royals. I remember visiting Jaipur during my childhood when we lived in Rajasthan roaming in the streets selling colorful ornaments and dresses. It creates a different kind of vibes altogether. And the grandeur of Amer fort representing a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture along with the delicious cuisine is truly mesmerizing. I would definitely love to visit Amer fort.
Yes Puloma it’s certainly worth a visit again. Although a lot may have changed except the Royal forts and palaces.
I visited the Amer Fort in Jaipur years ago, and your excellent article brings some of my memories of visiting this historical place. It’s undoubtedly an architectural gem, and it’s great that it is on a UNESCO Heritage list, as it was built in the XVI century. I also enjoyed the views of Maota Lake and liked the building of Shila Devi Temple. You had a great trip and share fantastic hints about this place!
Thank you so much Agnes. Glad you liked revisiting Amer Fort with me.
Amer Fort, one of the famous monuments in Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, is another jewel in the crown of the state’s forts. Built in the 16th century by Raja Man Singh, a trusted general of Akbar, Amer Fort exemplifies the fusion of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. Its strategic location atop a hill, overlooking Maota Lake, added to its defensive capabilities.