Renowned as the ancient citadel of the Kachwahs clan, the Amber fort is one of the prominent tourist attraction in Jaipur and a UNESCO world heritage site in the city of Jaipur. Often the next point of discussion when someone talks about Jaipur, Amer Fort in the outskirts of the city is a classic example of the Rajputana legacy. Being one of the very popular forts of Rajasthan, Amber Fort in its structure beautifully blends Hindu and Rajput style of architecture. Credits for such a majestic creation of red sandstone and marble goes to Raja Shri Maan Singh Ji Saheb (Maan Singh I).
Here is complete guide of Amber Fort
History of Amber Fort
From the 11th and 16th century, the town of Amer was under the rule of the Kachhwahas clan. At that time Amer was known as Dhundar. Founding stones of the remarkable Amber fort was laid during the reign of Raja Mann Singh; the Kachhwaha king of Amber. However, complete expansion of this structure was done by his descendant Jai Singh I. In the due course of the next 150 years, certain improvements and changes in its architecture were carried out by the string of successive rulers of Amer.
Architectural Layout
Known for its artistic style, Amber fort or Amer fort is divided into four different parts. The architectural layout of the fort is such each part of it comes with a separate entrance. The prime entry of the fort is to be done through Suraj Pole (Sun Gate), which opens at the first main courtyard, known as the Jaleb chowk. This huge courtyard has a history of being the victory parade spot of the armies on returning from battles. The women folk of the Royal family used to witness the parades through latticed windows of the structure.
Reason behind naming it as Sun gate lies in its location, which faces the rising sun in the east. Jaleb Chowk was built during the reign of Sawai Jai Singh. The first courtyard of the Amber fort comprises various internal structures that held great purpose and significance for the royal family. These are mentioned as below:
Attractions Inside Amber Fort
Sila Devi temple
One of the prominent structures that steals attention of the tourists is the Sila Devi temple. The temple is located at the right side of the first courtyard and has a silver covered double door. On the inside lies the statue of Sila Devi; an incarnation of Kali or Durga, the sanctum of which is also made of silver. It is believed that the Sila Devi temple was the worshipping place of the Rajput Maharajas and the royal family. The temple is also associated with being the spot of animal sacrifice in the name of religious rites during the Hindu festival days of Navrathri.
Ganesh Pol (Ganesh Gate)
Another impressive structure in the first courtyard of Amber Fort, Ganesh Pol is the official entry in into the private palaces of the Maharajas. Named after the Hindu Lord Ganesh, this gate is a three tier structure that is adorned by a variety of frescoes. The Ganesh Pol was built during the reign of Mirza Raja Jai Singh.
Up from the stairway of the Jaleb Chowk is the second courtyard of Amber Fort that is also known for its remarkable structures. These are described as below:
Diwaan-e-Aam
Diwaan-e-Aam, which is also known as the ‘Hall of Public Audience’ boasts of a structure that has two beautiful rows of ornamented pillars. These rows open on three sides. The story of Amber fort describes this hall as the venue where all the complaints and needs of the general public were listened by the King.
Diwaan-e-Khaas
This beautiful hall in the premises of Amber Fort stands for the ‘Hall of Private Audience’. As per its naming, the hall served as a meeting place of the King and his ministers, special guests from other states and friends. The interiors of the hall flaunts a beautiful mosaic glass work.
The third courtyard of the Amber Fort belonged strictly to the Maharajas and the royal family. It has primarily two buildings, separated from each other by a garden; designed like that of a Mughal creation. Prominent structures of this courtyard are described as:
Sheesh Mahal
Sheesh Mahal or the ‘Mirror Palace’ is one of the highly beautified structures of Amber fort. The interiors of the hall has colored glasses and mirror mosaics on the walls and ceilings. One can also see paintings and flowers, entirely made up of pure glass, studded on the ceilings and walls of the hall. The mirror work is so wonderful, it can convert the light of a small candle into thousands of glowing stars.
Sukh Niwas
Sukh Niwas or Sukh Mandir used to be the residence of pleasure for the Kings. It is said that the Kings of the fort with their queens and mistresses used to spend time here. Designing of the hall has been kept completely artistic. Doors of ivory and sandalwood make such an impression.
Palace of Man Singh I
The oldest part of the fort, the Palace of Man Singh I is located to the south of the third courtyard. It was built during the reign of Raja Mann Singh I and is the main palace in the royal property. The interiors of the palace boasts of pillared pavilion (baradari), colored tiles and frescoes.
Fourth courtyard of the Amber Fort belonged to the royal family women and also the mistresses of the Kings. The courtyard consists of numerous living rooms that were used by the queens as their residences. Besides, the premises of this courtyard also has a hall of private audience, known as Jas Mahal, and the structure of Jas Mandir as its prominent attractions.IWe are make this easy for you to explore all of these by including in your golden triangle tour package.
Visiting hours: 08:00 am to 06:00 pm
Light show timings:
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October to Feburary - 6:30 pm (English) - 07:30 pm (Hindi)
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March to April - 7:00 pm (English) - 08:00 pm (Hindi)
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May to September - 7:30 pm (English) - 8:30 pm (Hindi)
Facts about Amber Fort
There are many exciting facts about Amber Fort that will blow your mind, including:
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There is a secret tunnel that connects to the Jaigarh Fort.
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Fort was initially built in the year 1592 and was expanded by Raja Man Singh I.
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It is made of red sandstone.
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Amber Fort Jaipur shows the architecture exemplifying the Rajput craftsmanship.
Things to see at Amber Fort Jaipur
At Amber fort, you can see some famous things, including:
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Suraj Pol: This is the entry gate of the fort, which is also used in many movies to showcase the historical views.
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Ganesh pol: it is one of the other gates of the palace, which was specifically built for royal women to see around.
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Deewane - E - Aam: It is situated right to the Ganesh pol, where the king usually used to address the common audience.
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Jai Mahal: It is the place where private meetings used to be organized. There is also a Jai mandir, where an individual can find relaxation.
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Sheesh Mahal: The place is one of the most famous that can be illuminated with one candle.
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Sukh Niwas: It is the working chamber where the rooms of the various kings and queens were built.
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Zeena Mahal: Queens and women of the royal family resided here.
How to reach Amber Fort?
You can easily reach Amber Fort Jaipur by booking a taxi or a cab. From the Ajmeri Gate and MI road, there are so many buses that go directly to Amber Fort. From here, the bus would take only 40 minutes to reach Amber Fort.
The fort is located at the hilltop, where you can reach it by
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Elephant rides available at the amber fort.
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For a ride to the top, you can book a jeep.
Attractions near Amber Fort
The attractions near Amber Fort are as follows:
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Panna Meena ka kund: It is known for its unique architecture and is an excellent spot for taking pictures. The Amber Fort is about 1.3 kilometers away from here.
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Jagat Shiromani temple: It is 1.7 kilometers away, and it is dedicated to lord Krishna.
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Jal Mahal: The perfect picturesque location, which is located in the middle of the man Sagar Lake. It’s around 3.8km away from amber fort
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Jaigarh Fort: The fort symbolizes the region's history and military victories. The fort is located approximately 6.9 kilometers away from the Amber Fort.
Amber Fort Timings and Ticket Price
For Indians, Amber Fort entry fee is Rs. 100 per person, for foreigners, it is Rs. 550 per person. Amber Fort is open 8 am to 5.30 pm and 6.30 pm to 9.15 pm. You can purchase a ticket if you would like to experience the light and sound show. The amber fort light and sound show tickets are Rs. 295 per person.
The Best time to visit Amber Fort
From September to March is the best time to visit Amber Fort Jaipur, and between 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm, you can enjoy the Amber Fort light and sound show.
