Rajasthan Forts and Palaces

Rajasthan is a land of forts and palaces. Built on high hilltops, in the middle of enormous deserts, and on islands in lakes, the forts and palaces of Rajasthan India, showcase the architectural heritage of Rajasthan. Many of these Rajasthan forts and palaces look rugged and rough from their exteriors; the interiors take you to an altogether different world. Surprises are the second name of these architectural marvels, which are the Rajasthan forts and palaces spread throughout Rajasthan India. Make sure while you are on a journey to the eternal land of Rajasthan to stay in any of these Rajasthan forts and palaces, as many of these places are again regaining their past glory. Popularly known as the Heritage Hotels, these places are a blend of the royal past and modern world, which you can see on tours to Rajasthan India.

Mehrangarh Fort: One of finest among Rajasthan forts, Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur is a magnificent and imposing structure, with a commanding view of the surrounding landscape. Seemingly growing out of the rocky cliff on which it is perched, the fort is situated at an altitude of about 125 metres and is spread over an area of 5 sq. km with seven gates. One could drive up or walk to the top of the small and not so steep hill. Driving or walking up, the sheer rock face from where emerges the tall and massive sandstone wall of Mehrangarh looks awesome indeed. Not to be missed when on Rajasthan tour.

Chittaurgarh Fort: Standing tall in one of the oldest cities in Rajasthan, the Chittaurgarh Fort perched on a 152-m-high rocky hill. The Chittaurgarh Fort epitomises the doomed romantic ideal of Rajput chivalry. The fort with its impressive location and colourful history is the main source of attraction in the town. The immense stretch of the walls and the ruined palaces relate the saga of innumerable sieges and heroism. The modern town of Chittor lies at the foot of the hill. Not to be missed during vacations in Rajasthan.

Golden fort or Sonar Kila:It is situated in Jaisalmer. Bhatti Chief Jaisal laid the foundation of the fort in 1156 A.D on Trikuta hill. The fort is also called Sonar Kila or Golden Fort because it is made up of yellow sandstone and seems to ignite into a golden flame when scorched by the desert sun. Even today, one fourth of the old city's population resides within the fort. A cross-cultural merging of Rajput and Islamic architectural styles is visible in this fort. Ganesh Pol, Akshya Pol, Suraj Pol and Hawa Pol are must see for tourists. Jain temples built between 12th to 15th centuries and dedicated to Rikhabdevji and Sambhavanthji is another attraction.

Kumbhalgarh Fort: Set amidst a cluster of thirteen mountain peaks of the Aravali range, the formidable medieval citadel of Kumbhalgarh Fort stands a wary sentinel to the past glory of its kings and princes. Rising from a prominent ridge, 1,914 m above the sea level, the fort was built in 15th century AD by Maharana Kumbha (AD 1419-63) and is the principal fort after Chittaurgarh, lying 90 km northwest of Udaipur.

Jaisalmer Fort: The 'golden city', Jaisalmer is one of the most exotic cities in the whole of Rajasthan. The Jaisalmer Fort was built by Rawal Jaisal in 1156 A.D. The soaring walls of the fort gives a glowing golden in the rays of the setting sun, making it seem to rise out of the surrounding yellow sand.

Taragarh Fort: The Taragarh Fort, built in 1354, with its imposing structure of stone, is situated on a steep hill and has massive battlements and ramparts. The fort also provides a panoramic view of the entire town of Bundi. A must for tourist on Rajasthan holidays.
 

Amber & Jaigarh Fort: A classic example of Rajasthan fort-palace, the Ambar Fort was started by Man Singh I in 1592 and completed by his descendant Jai Singh I. Its rugged forbidding exterior belies an inner paradise where a beautiful fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles finds its ultimate refinement. In the foreground is the Maota Lake with breathtaking reflections of the magnificent Amber Fort-Palace. For an experience that's truly royal, tourists can reach the fort through snaking pathways on elephant back. And standing close is the Jaigarh Fort. Perched on a cliff and surrounded by huge battlements with inside walkways offering stunning views on all sides, Jaigarh Fort offers stunning views of Jaipur below.


Fort Rajwada: Situated in Jaisalmer, the golden city of Rajasthan, Fort Rajwada stands tall with its rich heritage, picturesque with exquisite architecture. Located in 20 acres of land, this princely home has an interior decor, created by the genius of renowned opera set designer, Ms. Stephanie Engeln. Converted into a heritage hotel now, Fort Rajwada offers a unique experience to tourists on Rajasthan travel.

 

Palaces in Rajasthan

Amer Palace:The Amer Palace is an important tourist attraction inside the Amber Fort. The fort is located a few kilometres from Jaipur and houses a number of other buildings. The palace was built by Raja Man Singh in 1600 AD. Raja Man Singh was a general in the army of the Mughal emperor Akbar. Apart from the palace there are many other important buildings inside the fort. Some of the other important places include Raj Mahal, Shila Mata Temple, Diwan-e-Am and Jai Mandir.

CityPalace,Jaipur: An important landmark in the Pink City, the City Palace is an exciting tourist spot in Jaipur. The City Palace complex is a group of palatial buildings, where members of the royal family used to stay. Maharaja Jai Singh II built the palace complex, later his successors added a few other mansions to the complex. The palace complex has been divided into courtyards and beautiful gardens. Mubarak Mahal is the main entrance to the complex. Some of the important palaces inside the complex include Badal Mahal, Sh. Govind Dev Temple, City Palace Museum and Chandra Mahal. 

CityPalace,Udaipur:Overlooking the placid waters of Lake Pichola, the City Palace is a beautiful palace complex in Udaipur. The palace complex was built by Maharana Udai Singh. Later his successors added new palaces and other structures to the palace complex. The palace complex is built in granite and marble. 'Hati Pol' or the Elephant Gate is the main entrance to the palace complex. The City Palace houses many beautiful buildings. The famous Jagdish Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is located here. The temple was built in 1651 AD.