The sprawling Amber Fort is a typical example of what the lives of our gallant Rajputs were like – militant, adventurous, temperamental and also self-indulgent. It is among the best hilltop forts in India. Within the stern exteriors that seem to grow out of the rugged hills are mighty gates, temples, huge ornate halls, palaces, pavilions, gardens and even a ramp to take you to the hilltop palace! and guess who climbs the ramp? Elephants. Yes, beautifully- caparisoned elephants go up and down carrying visitors to and fro. These well cladded elephants make a joyride to Amber fort and in turn makes your travel to Amber fort a fascinating experience. This some thing which you cannot afford to miss in any Rajasthan itinerary.

Just 11 kms from Jaipur, Amber fort is a splendid fort constructed in a scenic locale. Being a perfect blend of Hindu and Muslim architecture, Jaipur attracts travellers from around the globe. Built in 16 the century by Raja Man Singh, the fort stands as a proud reminder of the exotic building skills of the artisans of the yesteryears. This fort from yore days unfurls the legacies of the time when the august rulers imagined the unmatched craftmanship.


Fort Attractions
Old Amber Palace : The Old Palace lies at the base of the Jaigarh Fort. This area was the original Amber before Man Singh I came along and went on a building spree. The early 13th century palace here is not very interesting as compared to the grand Amber Fort-palace, yet you could do with a visit. This Old Palace can be reached from the Amber Palace too – there's a stone path leading from the Chand Pol to these ruins at the base of the hill. The road is currently being restored. Here lie the remains of ancient Amber which include temples and crumbling palaces and patches of walls. The cobbled streets and broken down havelis (mansions) give it the aura of a medieval town. But these mute remnants of a bygone golden era seem to speak volumes.


Diwan-i-Am or Hall of Public Audience :This is a delicate palace which you would come across on your travel to Amber fort. This forty pillared pavillion is perfect example of intricate craftmanship and was constructed by Mirza Raja Jai Singh. The pavilion worked as a place where Maharajahs used to recieve its general public and used to hear their pertaining problems. The southern area of this palace was kept clear so that the royal ladies could watch the proceedings of Diwan-I-Am from the Zenana house ( Women's quarters).


Shila Mata Temple : Entry into Shila Mata Temple is through Singh Pol. The temple is devoted to Shila Mata ( Goddess Kali), the goddess of victory and houses a black marble idol of the goddess which was brought here from Jessore by Raja Man Sigh in 1604. You would find nine images of Goddess Durga (strength) and ten forms of Goddess Saraswati ( knowledge) which are carved on the silver gates of the temple. The mandap of this temple is made up of white marble contrasting the colours of the idols.


Ganesh Pol & Suhaag Mandir : Ganesh Pol forms another attractions in Amber fort and is an imposing gateway which lies south of Diwan-i-am. The gateway has been painted beautifully and endorse typical Rajasthani motifs. From Ganesh Pol, you can move to beautiful garden or Charbagh, which is based on the Mughal patten of gardens.


Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), Sukh Niwas, Jai Mandir & Jas Mandir : Diwan-i-Khas show cases a rich amalgam of Rajput and Mughal architecture. The architecture is showcased in the fascinating Diwan-i-khas, Sukh Niwas, Jai Mandir and Jas Mandir. Decorated with beautiful mirror work, Diwan -I - Khas has wonderful carvings on the walls and the ceilings. The major attractions of these halls are miniature murals made of coloured glasses which depicts Radha and Krishna.


Quick bytes

State :	Rajasthan
Location :	On Delhi-Jaipur highway, 11 kilometers away from Jaipur
Time to Visit:	Open on all days, except Holi
Preferred Timings :	9.30 a.m.- 4.30 p.m
Admission:	Citizen INR 10/ Foreigner: INR 50
Photography charges:	Citizen/foreigner: Rs 40/25
Video charges:	Citizen/foreigner: Rs 100/150 but it includes all the three charges (entrance, still camera and video camera).
How to Reach:	Tourists can either take local buses from various points within the city to reach the central museum or they can hire rickshaws, tempos and taxis

Around The Palace
Jagatsiromani Temple : All around the place here are scattered bits and pieces of Amber's rich past. The old chhatris (cenotaphs), looking like domed pavilions, show some remains of paintings. Among the many temples near the Old Palace is the beautiful Jagatsiromani Temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. This shikhara (spired) temple was built by Man Singh in memory of his son Jagat Singh. It has some fine carvings and paintings and the black stone Krishna is said to have been worshipped by the saint-poetess Meera Bai of Chittor. It is also famous for its intricately carved marble gateway guarded by stone elephants.

Temple of Sanwalji : Across the road is the JainTemple of Sanwalji. Nearby are the old Temple of Narsinghji with its marble jhoola (swing), the Temple of Ambikeshwara and the Lakshmi Narayanji Temple. The latter has a Shiva lingam installed by Raja Kakil, the first Kachhawaha to rule from Amber. and according to some, Amber even gets its name from this temple. An ancient Sun Temple lies as an outcrop.

Panna Mian ki Baoli- Stepwell : One marvel of designing is the 17th century ornate step-well Panna Mian ki Baoli. Stepwells were like community centres in the past, and constructing them was considered an act of great generosity and benevolence. Panna Mian is one such water tank surrounded on three sides by criss-crossed steps. It also has octagonal corner kiosks and a double-storey verandah. The only mosque in the area is the old but picturesque Jami Masjid (1569), built by Bihar Mal in the honour of Akbar. After all the Mughal king would need some place to say his prayers if he went visiting his Rajput friends.