The Fort of Amber - Jaipur Fort
The Amber Fort - Fort of Jaipur
Amber derives its name from Ambikashwar, a title of shiva or from Ambarisha. The oldest inscription found here dates back from 954 A.D. The place was once under the hold of the Mina tribe from whom it was wrested by the Kachhawaha Rajputs in the 11th century.
Location and Architecture
Amber fort is surrounded by chaotic masses of hills of various heights. The adjoining hilly terrain is full of forest and provides ample opportunity of defense. The ascent to the fort leads to the first gate thrown across this way.
After crossing the second gate the way is bifurcated, one leading upward on the right side with a slight ascent. The other goes direct to the small fortified castle called Jaigarh. At some distance from the bifurcation of the path , there stands a gate through which the ascending path leads to jaigarh.
Attractions and Places of Interest
On one bastion of this fort called ‘Deewa Burj’ a high tower stands which was previously used as search light house, indicating location of the Fort.
The Entrance to the great courtyard on the lower terrace of the palace is through an imposing archway. Both sides are covered with the bases of Palaces and barracks. The royal Palace on the left extremity of the enclosure is approached by a long flight of steps through a double gate-way, called Singh Pol, which opens in to Court of Diwan-i-Am. The kali temple is situated behind this pol. The silver plate studded doors of the temple built of white marble is an admirable piece of great beauty.
The Diwan-I-Am, Hall of Audience constructed by Mirza Raja Jaisingh is open from three sides. It has a double line of grey marble and sand stone pillers supporting a vaulted roof. The pillers with its exquisite carving of elephant and fresco paintings are said to have kindled jealousy of Jahangir and ultimately the painting was covered with plaster. The system of inter-columninations of this hall containing 48 columns is a fine admixture of indo-Muslim architecture.
The Ganesh pol built by Mirza RAja Jaisingh in 1639 A.D. is covered with paintings in tempera and covered with mosaics and temper. The royal apartment is decorated with paintings on colored glass pieces.
The Jai Mander, Sheesh Mahal and Jas Mandir have exquisite and delicate decorations in mosaics and marbles alabaster panels inlaid with decorative motifs and have in-lay work of glass. Sohag Mandir has marble screen while Sukh Mandir has doors inlaid with ivory and sandal-wood. The palaces of Raja Man are a fine specimens of ancient system of constructing the building, its walls glancing with bright and subdued colors.
Near the Fort, there lies a group of temples among which the Jagat Siromani temple is noted for its exquisite carving and architecture. A museum, garden and Maota Lake below the fort are other pieces of interest at Amber Fort.
One thing you would definitely notice about Amber Fort is the elephant ride up the fort which is considered the major tourist attraction. Also the elephant festival in the month of march is held at the fort and near by locations which is another great time to visit this fort.
This fort is famous all around the world and to be frank I have been there almost 15 times or more. The main reason behind that is, everytime someone comes from outside, I have to take him to fort and that is why I have a lot of idea about history. Thats it for now, we would continue with our series, so keep yourself updated.
