Jaigarh Fort

Sharing an uncanny resemblance with the Amer Fort, the Jaigarh Fort is interchangeably known as the “Victory Fort” too. The Jaigarh Fort was built by Sawai Jai Singh in the year 1726 and is perched on Cheel ka Teela (Hill of Eagles) of the Aravalli range. The fort was essentially made to protect the Amer Fort and its palace complex and was hence named after him.

The Meenas originally built the fort as the home of the King and the royal family, who resided there, apart from their residency in the Amer Fort. After the Meenas were overthrown by the Kachwahas, they made certain changes in the structure of the fort. During the rule of the Mughal ruler Aurangzeb, the fort came under the charge of Raja Jai Singh II who made significant changes to the structure and utility of the fort, and because of his contributions, the fort came to be named Jaigarh- after Jai Singh. Throughout the reign of the Mughals, including that of the great emperor Akbar, Jaigarh Fort was used as a place to keep the treasure, loot, arms, ammunition and other supplies for the Rajputs. An interesting feature about the fort is that despite seeing several rules and coming under siege many times, no one truly ever managed to capture the fort, which is why it earned the name- Victory Fort.

The Jaigarh Fort is a massive sandstone structure that is built in Indo-Persian style, complete with cyclopean walls that have been held together with lime mortar. The structure consists of a square garden that is surrounded by ramparts which lead to the upper levels of the fort. There is also a central watchtower from where one can get a clear, unobstructed view of the stunning landscape on all sides. One of the most interesting features about the architecture of the fort is the lattice windows, which are so intricately designed that one can get a clear view of the outdoors from inside, but no one from outside can see the interiors through these windows. The main entrance of the Jaigarh Fort is called the Dungar Darwaza. There are two ancient temples within the premises of the fort including the Ram Harihar Temple that was built in the 10th century and the Kal Bhairav Temple that has existed since the 12th century.

The fort is open every day, from Monday to Saturday, from 9:30 am to 4:45 pm. On Saturdays, the Jaigarh Fort remains open till 8:00 pm. The entry fee to the Jaigarh Fort is INR 35 for Indian nationals, while foreigners and tourists from outside the country have to pay INR 85 for entrance.

• Jaigarh Fort is made entirely of red sandstone that is composed of dressed stone that has been held together with lime mortar.
• Even though it is famous in history as a store-house for battle paraphernalia, it started as a royal residence for the Rajas and Maharajas of Amer.
• The area around the fort was full of ore mines which resulted in Emperor Shah Jahan using it as one of his main cannon foundries.
• The Jaivana Cannon, which was then the largest cannon in the world and is now the largest moveable cannon in Asia can still be found on the premises of the Jaigarh Fort.
• One of the most attractive features of the fort is the central watchtower which was used by rules to keep an eye out for incoming invaders or attacks. It now serves as one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the Amer area, from where you can get an unparalleled view of the mountainside.

• Armory – The armory chamber here has a wide display of swords, shields, guns, muskets and also a 50 kilograms cannonball.
• Museum – The museum is located to the left of the Awami Gate; it has exhibits of photographs of the Royalty of Jaipur, stamps and many artefacts, which include a circular pack of cards. A spittoon of 15th century vintage and also hand drawn plan of the palaces are seen in the museum.
• Jaivana Cannon – The Jaivana was manufactured during the reign of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II (1699–1743) at a foundry in Jaigarh. The barrel has decorations carved on it which depict trees, an elephant scrolls and a pair of birds (ducks). It is mounted on wheels and has the mechanism of two back wheels mounted on roller pin bearings.

• Amer Fort – Located in the city of Amer, Rajasthan, India, Amber Fort was founded by ruler Alan Singh Chanda of the Chanda Dynasty of Meena. Perched high on the hills, the fort is known for its artistic Rajput architectural style elements. It is one of the major tourist attractions in Jaipur.
• Elefriend – Located at a mere distance of 2 kilometers from Amer, the Elefriend is India’s first elephant village that provides great experience to the visitors. You can hangout with the elephants too.
• Jal Mahal – The Jal Mahal was originally constructed in 1699 and later on was renovated in the 18th century by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Amber. Built in red sandstone, the palace showcases the Rajput style of architecture and is an architectural marvel. The palace is located in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake in Jaipur city, India.
• Nahargarh Fort – Perched majestically on the hills of Aravalli, Nahargarh is one of Jaipur’s architectural wonders. It offers an unmatched view of Jaipur, the pink city of India. Nahargarh is itself a sight for sore eyes and is situated on the outskirts of Jaipur, is known for its extended wall that connects it to Jaigarh Fort. This grand fort is embellished with delicate carvings and stonework and is an impregnable structure. The Fort was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in the year 1734 as a retreat. The fort also has a lady’s quarters by the name of 'Zenana'. Known as the Madhavendra Bhavan, the 'Zenana' was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. Its counterpart, the 'Mardana Mahal' was also constructed in the complex for the royal men.
• Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing – This museum is a must visit for all the craft & block print lovers. Anokhi Museum houses the world's best block painting garments and is a cultural endeavor of Anokhi clothing brand. This museum exhibits the oldest art form of Rajasthani art at its very best. Detailed explanation about every cloth is mentioned along with the quality of fabric and various other details.
• Panna Meena ka Kund – Panna Meena Kund is Jaipur's sole fully restored and operational stepwell. It dates back to a time when there wasn't any piped water. For ages, it has helped villages around it to access drinking water. The Baori, sometimes known as the Bawri, was an integral element of the community and society surrounding it.
• Hawa Mahal – Also known as ‘The Palace of Winds’, the Hawa Mahal is a part of the City Palace. There is no entrance from the main road to the mahal, so you have to seek for the gate which let you enter. Inside are five floors designed very carefully.
• Shila Devi Temple – The Shila Devi Temple is a temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, located inside the Amber Fort. The temple is made of sandstone and is surrounded by a geometric garden. The temple, which is over 400 years old, is said to have been constructed for a Bengali princess who came to live in Amber Fort after her wedding to a Rajput Prince.
• Sound and Light show in Amber Fort – One of the most unique ways of discovering the vibrant history of Amber Fort is by checking out the Sound and Light show that uses HD sound and laser lights to project the history of all the rulers of Amber Fort on the walls of the palace itself.

• Breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are recommended so that you don’t get too hot, even during the day.
• You should carry a pair of climbing shoes and boots with you, in case the opportunity to explore the rough, hilly terrain arises. There are also a lot of sloping roads, so comfortable shoes should help you navigate the area better.
• Unless you have an in-depth knowledge of the Jaigarh Fort, it is best to explore the area with a guide. There are long, winding passages andconfusing corridors within the huge interiors, so it is very easy to get lost inside.
• It is very important to stay hydrated in the Rajasthan heat, so carry water bottles with you at all times.
• Even though all parts of the fort are pretty much accessible, it is best to be careful around the edges of the terrace, doors and windows.

• The stag resto bar and lounge – One of the best cafes in Jaipur, the Stag resto bar and lounge renders an amazing view of the entire Amer Fort without even entering into one.
• Kokum Bistro – Located in Amer, the restaurant is quite renowned and serves delicious food to its customers. A must visit place for everyone.
• 1135AD – 1135 AD is an opulent Maharaja’s dining room within the Amber Fort plating opulent Indian dishes by candlelight, to give you a royal treatment in every bite.

• Trident Jaipur – A five-star hotel in Jaipur with a luxurious stay experience for the visitors. The hotel is equipped with all the amenities for the guests.
• Radisson Jaipur city – Located in Jaipur, the Radisson is a popular hotel with a modern architecture that is comfortable as well as appealing.
• Umaid Bhawan – A magnificent piece of Rajasthan’s heritage, the Umaid Bhawan is a stunning piece of the bygone royal architecture and provides stunning view to its guests.
• Rambagh Palace – A renowned 5-star hotel in Rajasthan that offers the finest of royal experience and tradition to its guests.

The nearest airport to Jaigarh Fort is in Jaipur, which is connected to all the major cities in India by flight. From Jaipur Airport, one can hire buses, taxis and even rickshaws to take them to Jaigarh Fort. However, you can also hire private taxis and even rickshaws.

The best time to visit the fort is between November and February. These are the winter months in Amer and while the nights can get a bit chilly, the mornings remain pleasant and allows for a great opportunity to explore the fort.