Rajasthan,
the "Land of Kings" was ruled by several rulers over the
centuries. The rulers of the state constructed a number of magnificent forts
and palaces that take you back in time. Forts and Palaces of Rajasthan are
known for their architecture and related history. Rajasthan Forts and
Palaces attract travellers of different bent and inclinations. Some are
drawn by the stark beauty of these forts and palaces and some come here to
experience the royal splendour of a bygone era.
Jaipur
Jaipur popularly known as Pink City, is adorned with beautiful red and pink
sandstone forts and palaces. Popular forts and palaces of Jaipur are :
» City Palace : The City Palace is a huge palace
that covers one seventh part of the old walled city. It was originally built
by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II between 1728 - 1732, but afterwards many new
structures came up here. City Palace is a wonderful blend of Mughal and
Rajathani architecture. City Palace is a conglomeration of buildings such as
Mubarak Mahal, Diwan-I-Khaas, Diwan-I-Aam, Chandra Mahal, Badal Mahal etc.
» Hawa Mahal : Jaipur's central land
mark, Hawa Mahal is located close to the City Palace. Maharaja Sawai Pratap
Singh built this castle in the year 1799. The five storey building
overlooking the main street of the old city was built to enable royal ladies
to watch the everyday life of the city. One can go to the top of the Hawa
Mahal to have a splendid view of the city.
» Amber Fort : Amber Fort is situated at a distance
of 11 kms from Jaipur. The construction of this fort was initiated by Man
Singh in 1592 and completed during the time of Sawai Jai Singh I. Notable
structures inside the fort are Sheesh Mahal, Jai Mandir, Sukh Niwas, Ganesh
Pole, Diwan-E-Khaas, Diwan-E-Aam, Shila Mata Temple and the Kali Temple.
»
Nahargarh Fort : The fort is 6 kms north-west of the City Palace.
Nahargarh Fort was built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. The fort
provides the excellent view of the city and Man Sagar Lake.
» Jaigarh Fort : Jaigarh Fort or the 'Victory Fort'
is 15 kms away from Jaipur. Built in 1726 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II,
Jaigarh Fort is one of the well preserved fortress and military structures
of medieval India.
Udaipur
The lake city of Udaipur is probably the most romantic city in the dry
heart of Rajasthan. Udaipur has many palaces and forts which should not be
missed.
» City Palace : The City Palace towers over the
Pichola Lake. It is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan and was the
winter palace of Maharanas. Mahrana Udai Singh started the construction of
this palace in 1559 and later additions were made by the various Maharanas.
One can enter to the palace through two gates - Badipol and the Tripolia
gate. The City Palace houses several palaces like the Sheesh Mahal, Krishna
Villa, Manak Mahal, Moti Mahal, Badi Mahal, Dilkush Mahal etc.
» Jagniwas Palace : Jagniwas Palace
was the summer resort royal family and is situated in an island of lake
Pichola. The palace was built in 1754 by Maharana Jagat Singh II and covers
the whole island. Jagniwas Palace is now converted into a luxury hotel named
as Lake Palace.
Bikaner
Bikaner
is a desert town situated in the northern part of Rajasthan. Forts and
Palaces of Bikaner speak of its royal grandeur.
» Junagarh Fort : Jungarh Fort is the principal
attraction of Bikaner. Built between 1588 and 1593 by Raja Rai Singh, the
fort has a 986 m long wall, 37 bastions and two gateways. Major attractions
of the fort are Chandra Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Rang Mahal,
Diwan-e-Khas, Hawa Mahal, Badal Mahal and Karn Mahal.
» Lalgarh Palace : The palace was built in 1902 by
Maharaja Ganga Singh in memory of his father Mahara Lal Singh. Made of red
sandstone the fort is known for its beautiful lattice work. The royal family
still live in a part of this palace and one part is converted to a museum.
Jaisalmer
The Golden City of Jaisalmer is one of the most exotic and unusual town of
Rajasthan. The merchants and local people build magnificent buildings all
carved from golden yellow sand stone.
» Jaisalmer Fort : Jaisalmer Fort was
built by Raja Jaisal in the year 1156. The fort is perched atop the 76 m
Trikut Hill. About a quarter of the old city's population resides within the
fort walls. The fort has 99 bastions, exquisitely carved balconies and
cupolas. Amongst the places of interest are the Juna Mahal, Rang Magal,
Sarbottam Bilas, Moti Mahal and Gaja Vilas. Jaisalmer Fort provides a fine
view of the old city.
Chittorgarh
Chittorgarh
is an ancient town of Rajasthan. The town is known for its hilltop fortress,
which reverberates with history of heroism and sacrifice of Rajputs.
» Chittorgarh Fort : The fort is the main landmark
of the Chittorgarh town. Chittorgarh Fort sums up the whole romantic, doomed
ideal of Rajput chivalry. It is believed that the Fort was originally built
by Bhim, one of the Pandava brothers of Mahabharata. Today the fort is a
virtually deserted ruin but reminders of its heyday still stand. Suraj Pol
is the main entry to fort which is located on the eastern side. Inside the
fort is a circular road and a deer park at the southern end.
» Rana Kumbha Palace : Rana Kumbha Palace was built
in the 8th century during the reign of Bappaditya. It was renovated by Rana
Kumbha in 1433 but now it is on the verge of ruins. Rana Kumbha Palace is a
unique specimen of Rajput architecture and it contains the stable of
elephant and horse and Shiva Temple.
» Fateh Prakash Palace : The Palace is
situated just beyond the Rana Kumbha Palace. Fateh Prakash Palce houses an
interesting museum and several statues.
» Padmini Palace : Padmini Palace is another
important palace of Chittorgarh. Padmini was the queen of Rana Bhim Singh
and she was famous for her beauty.
