Amber Fort, Jaipur

Location
Located at a distance of 11 kms from Jaipur, 300 kms from national capital Delhi and 293 kms from Agra.

About Amber Fort
Situated on the Jaipur-Delhi highway the Amber Fort or the Amer Fort, belongs to the Kachwaha clan. Amber was once the ancient capital of Jaipur state. The Kachwahas ruled from Amber for seven centuries. The construction of the Amber fort was started by Raja Man Singh I, in the year 1592, and was completed by his descendants Jai Singh I and Jai Singh II. The fort located on a hillside overlooking the Maota lake reflects its terraces and ramparts. The fort boasts of a massive complex gateway, courts, stairways, pillared pavilions and palaces.An excellent example of Rajput architecture, the fort is made of white marble and red sandstone. The exterior of the fort is very imposing, while the interior is influenced by Hindu and Muslim style of ornamentation. The walls of the fort have painting depicting numerous scenes from hunting expeditions. The intricate carving, mosaic and delicate mirror work make the halls magnificent and imperial. The Amber Fort can be entered through the 'Dil-e-Aaram' Garden, built in the traditional Mughal style.

The fort complex houses the Ganesh Pol, a magnificent gateway, which is painted with images of the Ganesh, the elephant-headed god. The front courtyard of the complex has Diwan-i-Am or hall of the public audience, which has latticed galleries and double row of columns, each having a capital in the shape of elephants on the top. The Sheesh Mahal or the palace of mirrors has wall inlaid with beautiful mirrors. The Jas Mandir is another attraction, the building is a blend of the Mughal and the Rajput style of architecture, that is evident from the nicely carved Jali screens, fine mirror and stucco work. The fort also has a small Kali Temple, adorned with huge doors made of silver. The larger white marble Shila Mata temple, has the idol of Goddess Kali. Today many of the early structures have disappeared or ruined and many of them are in a state of preservation.

How to Reach Amber Fort
Jaipur airport is connected to major cities of India. Trains are available from all major cities and towns of India. A good network of road connects Jaipur with towns of Rajasthan and other nearby states.