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Amer Fort Jaipur
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.
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