Hello, friend! There is one location in Jaipur that needs to be on your travel list without a doubt: Amer Fort Jaipur. I promise you that the fort is not an ordinary one and will take you on a historical voyage to the grandeur of Rajasthan’s regal past. Let’s explore what makes Amer Fort Jaipur unique by grabbing your camera and donning walking shoes.
About Amer Fort and Palace Jaipur
Amer Fort and Palace Jaipur is one of the top tourist places in Jaipur. The fort was built 16th century by Maharaja Man Singh I. It is not just a historical destination but also offers breathtaking views of the Pink City Jaipur. The Fort is a mix of Hindu and Mughal styles.
Amer Fort Jaipur Location
The distance between Amer Fort and the centre of Jaipur is approximately 11 km, and getting there is not too difficult. You can easily grab a cab, an auto-rickshaw, or even hop onto a local bus. If you love being adventurous consider taking an elephant ride to the fort’s entrance. Yes, it’s a little touristic, but then again, it’s Jaipur.
A Royal Welcome: The Suraj Pol
The striking Suraj Pol will meet you as you go closer to the fort (Sun Gate). This grand entrance is just a taste of what’s to come. The fort’s architecture is a mix of Hindu and Mughal styles. It is perched on a hill, offering sweeping views of the Maota Lake below. Perfect spot for that Instagram-worthy shot!
What to See Inside Amer Fort Jaipur
Once you step inside the palace, you will be amazed to see the larger-than-life size of the place. There are particularly four main sections into which the fort is divided:
- Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience): This is where the king would meet his subjects and hear their complaints. You can see open colonnades and an elevated throne area. Imagine the buzz of activity that must have filled this space centuries ago.
- Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace): Now, this is the showstopper! The Sheesh Mahal is a small room covered in thousands of tiny mirrors. Even the faintest light reflects off the surfaces, creating a dazzling effect.
- Sukh Niwas (Hall of Pleasure): As the name suggests, this was the king’s relaxation area. What’s cool here is the ancient air conditioning system! Water flows through channels in the walls, cooling the air naturally—an ingenious way to beat the Rajasthan heat.
- Ganesh Pol: This ornate gate leads to the private palaces of the royal family. It’s decorated with intricate frescoes and carvings, and you can easily spend a lot of time here just admiring the craftsmanship.
In addition to these sections, you must not miss exploring the secretive side of Amer Fort, the Tunnels. The hidden tunnels connect the fort to Jaigarh Fort. These tunnels were used as escape routes in case of an attack. While some sections are closed to the public, you can still explore a part of this underground passage.
Amer Fort Jaipur Timings
The fort is open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM, and I’d recommend getting there early to beat the crowds and the heat. The best time to visit Jaipur itself is between October and March when the weather is cooler. Wear comfortable shoes! The fort is vast, and there’s a lot of walking involved. Also, don’t forget to stay hydrated—Jaipur can get pretty warm, even during the cooler months.
Amber Fort Light and Sound Show
The Amber Fort Light and Sound Show is a must-see! This evening spectacle is all about bringing the fort’s history to life in the most epic way possible. Imagine sitting under the stars with the grand Amber Fort as your backdrop, listening to a captivating narration (in Hindi or English) that tells the tales of Jaipur’s royal past.
The Amer Fort Light and Sound Show happens every night at the base of the fort, right near the Kesar Kyari Garden on Maota Lake. If you’re visiting in winter (October to February), the English show kicks off at 6:30 pm, followed by the Hindi one at 7:30 pm. During March and April, it’s at 7:00 pm and 8:00 pm, and from May to September, the timings shift to 7:30 pm and 8:30 pm. The whole show lasts about 52 minutes, so it’s a good idea to get there at least 25 minutes early to grab a good spot and settle in.
Amber Fort Light and Sound Show Tickets Price
The Amer Fort light and sound performance costs just INR 295 per person, including GST, which is a very reasonable price. For kids younger than seven, it’s free.
Amer Fort Jaipur History And Architecture
The fort’s history dates back to 1592. It was built by Raja Man Singh, one of Akbar’s top generals. It’s not just a fort but a palace too, with a mix of Hindu and Mughal architecture. The fort was the main residence of the Rajput Maharajas and their families, and as you wander through its stunning courtyards, intricate mirror work, and grand halls, you can almost imagine the royal life they led. The blend of red sandstone and white marble gives the fort its iconic look. Plus, the views from up there are breathtaking!
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Unknown Facts about Amer Fort Jaipur
- Amer Fort is named after Amba Mata, the goddess of earth and fertility.
- Before Jaipur was built, Amer Fort served as the capital of the Kachhawa Rajputs.
- Jaleb Chowk, one of the four main courtyards in the fort, was used for parades by the Maharaja’s bodyguards.
- The Mughal Garden, called Kesar Kyari, is star-shaped in Maota Lake, filled with seasonal flowers.
- The Maota Lake is believed to hold a Lingam and beautifully reflects the fort, making it look like a castle from a fairy tale.
- There’s a 2 km long secret tunnel that connects Amer Fort to Jaigarh Fort. It was used as an escape route for queens during invasions.
Tourist Places Near Amer Fort Jaipur
- Jaigarh Fort – Located just above Amer Fort, this fort is famous for its massive cannon, Jaivana, and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Nahargarh Fort – Another nearby fort, Nahargarh offers panoramic views of Jaipur city and is a popular spot for sunsets.
- Jal Mahal – A beautiful palace situated in the middle of Man Sagar Lake, visible from the road to Amer Fort.
- Panna Meena Ka Kund – A historic stepwell with symmetrical stairs, perfect for photography and a short visit.
- Jagat Shiromani Temple – A small but architecturally rich temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, located near Amer Fort.
- Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing – Located in the Amer area, this museum showcases the traditional art of block printing.
- Amber Palace Gardens (Kesar Kyari) – These gardens, situated within the fort complex, feature beautifully manicured flower beds and offer a peaceful retreat.
- Elephant Village (Hathi Gaon) – A place where you can interact with and ride elephants, offering a more ethical and intimate experience with these gentle giants.
- Kanak Vrindavan Gardens – Lush gardens located at the foot of Nahargarh hills, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
- Albert Hall Museum – Though a bit farther away, it’s a significant museum in Jaipur displaying a vast collection of artefacts and art.