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

Book your Jaipur hotel here on Travelwisesr Holidays

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.

If your loved traveling with us to Amer Fort, PIN it for later & forward to friends!