Anuroopa's Jaipur Travel Blog: AMBER FORT- A STORY THROUGH MY LENS

Sep 5, 2011

AMBER FORT- A STORY THROUGH MY LENS

Amber was the ancient capital of the state of Dhundhar. Its construction began in the 11th century and further enhancements were made gradually from time to time. It is a magnificent blend of Rajput and Muslim architecture. Amber fort is one of the most well preserved forts in India and even after centuries remain glorious.

Distant view of Amber

Once upon a time it used to be a palace where the Rajput Maharajas and their families lived.

At the entrance to the palace there is a beautiful temple dedicated to Sila Devi. The Amber Fort is an opulent palace complex made of red sandstone and marble. It consists of the Diwan-e-Aam meaning the "Hall of Public Audience", the Diwan-e-Khas meaning the "Hall of Private Audience", the Sheesh Mahal (a gorgeous mirror palace)/ Jai Mandir, and the Sukh Niwas where a cool climate is artificially created by winds that blow over the water cascading within the palace.

This is where you hire a jeep or elephant to go to Amber

Amber is a must add to your Jaipur sightseeing itinerary. It lights up magnificently at night, making jaipur even more beautiful. You can take an audio guide to better understand the structures and history. Also in the evenings there is a light and sound show that has amber as the backdrop and is a must attend to know more about the heritage and history.

MUST CARRY: loads of water, a comfortable pair of walking shoes, hat, sunscreen lotion and sunglasses!

Off to Amber on Elephant back

HISTORY & BACKGROUND:

The Amber Fort set in picturesque and rugged hills is a fascinating blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. Constructed by Raja Man Singh I in 1592 and completed by Mirja Raja Jai Singh the fort was made in red sand stone and white marble. The rugged forbidding exterior belies an inner paradise with a beautiful fusion of art and architecture. Amber is the classic and romantic fort-palace with a magnificent aura. The interior wall of the palace depicts expressive painting scenes with carvings, precious stones and mirror settings. In the foreground is the Maota Lake providing a breathtaking vista. Built mainly for the warring enemies as a safe place, the heavily structured walls could defend the residents within the ramparts of the fort.

Just Reaching Amber

All means of survival and luxuries for the royal families and the people who were concerned with the functioning of this small kingdom of the Kachhawas were well provided. The Rajputs who had apparently won a small structure passed on by Meena tribes, later on renovated it into the grand Amber Fort. Holding a history as old as seven centuries, this place vibrates with its legendary past. Although many of the early structures have been literally ruined but at the same time, those dating from 16th century onwards are remarkably well preserved by sincere efforts.