Amer Fort

Amer Fort (also spelled Amber Fort) is Jaipur's grandest monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rising in tiers of pale yellow and pink sandstone above the Maota Lake on the Aravalli hills, about 11 kilometres north of the city centre. A masterpiece of Rajput architecture with strong Mughal influences, it was the seat of the Kachhwaha rulers for centuries before the capital moved to Jaipur.

History

Construction began in 1592 under Raja Man Singh I, one of Emperor Akbar's most trusted generals, and the fort was expanded over the following century, notably by Sawai Jai Singh I. It served as the royal residence and capital of the Amber kingdom until Sawai Jai Singh II founded the new planned city of Jaipur in 1727. In 2013, Amer Fort was inscribed as part of the Hill Forts of Rajasthan on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Architecture and highlights

The fort is arranged around four main courtyards. The first, Jaleb Chowk, is where returning armies once paraded. From here a stairway climbs to the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) and the exquisite Ganesh Pol, a richly frescoed gateway leading to the private quarters. The undisputed jewel is the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), whose walls and ceilings are inlaid with thousands of tiny mirrors that glitter from a single candle flame. Opposite stands the Sukh Niwas, cooled by water channels — an early form of air conditioning. The older Sila Devi temple near the entrance remains an active place of worship.

What to see and do

Wander the ramparts for sweeping views over the lake and the gardens laid out on its surface. A subterranean passage links Amer to the mightier Jaigarh Fort on the ridge above, built for the royal family to retreat in times of siege. In the evenings, a light and sound show narrates the fort's history against its illuminated walls.

Visiting tips

Give yourself at least two to three hours to explore properly, and visit in the cooler morning hours from October to March. Wear comfortable shoes for the climb and the extensive walking. It is easy to pair Amer with Jaigarh and Nahargarh forts and the Jal Mahal on a single half-day itinerary.