Rajasthan holds a treasure trove of ancient archives and heritage. The stories of the Rajput bravery, sacrifice, pride and romance are made famous by the huge magnificent forts spread across various regions of Rajasthan. The great Rajput rulers of Rajasthan have long gone but their legacy still lives on through these forts, spread across of the state. The great details, intricate designs and thoughts put in to create these brilliant and massive monuments give a unique charming experience. Surrounded by desert the forts of Rajasthan, over one hundred of them are built on hills and mountainous and stand tall. Six of them have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The eclectic architecture of these forts make them standout with each one remarkably different from the other. Most forts are known for their unique characteristic and are made famous by one thing be it their architecture or their surroundings. Like Jaisalmer fort known as ‘golden fort’ made famous by ‘sonar kella’ (1972) film by Satyajit Ray. Some of the forts are up to 20 kilometres in circumference, and bear testimony to the power of the Rajput princely states that flourished in the region from the 8th to the 18th centuries.
Enclosed within these high defensive walls are major urban centres, palaces, trading centres and other buildings including temples that often predate the fortifications which were developed as an elaborate part of culture that supported learning, music and arts. Some of the urban centres enclosed in the fortifications have survived, as have many of the temples and other sacred buildings. The forts use the natural defenses offered by hills, deserts, rivers, and dense forests that surround them. They also feature extensive water harvesting structures, largely still in use today.
Due to passage of time and lack of maintenance most forts are in dire need of renovation and preservation for future generations. Some of the major and most notable ports of Rajasthan are Amer Fort, Jaipur; Jalore Fort, Jalore; Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer; Gagron Fort, Jhalawar; Jaigarh Fort, Jaipur; Chittorgarh Fort, Chittorgarh; Junagarh Fort, Bikaner; Ranthambore Fort, Sawai Madhopur; Khimsar Fort, Nagaur; and Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajsamand. There are several other forts notable for their grandeur, and scars of battle damage suffered due wars with foreign invaders, other kingdoms and empires. Often referred as the Land of Kings, Rajasthan is one of the biggest states in India. Formerly known as Rajputana, Rajasthan was divided into various regions, which were ruled by various clans like Meenas, Gurjars, Rajputs and Jats who built these various historical forts in Rajasthan that still stand testament to their glorious past.
1. Amer Fort, Jaipur
Amer Fort is one of the best hill forts of Rajasthan located in the capital city of Jaipur. The fort was built by Raja Man Singh. Also named as Amber Fort it is an exclusive example of Hindu artistry and exquisite designs and architecture built across the enormous structure in red sandstone and marble. Some of the notable buildings inside the fort include the Sheesh Mahal, Diwan-e Aam, Diwan-E-Khaas, Sukh Niwas and Jai Mandir. Cradled on the top of a hill near Jaipur, the Amer Fort commonly known as the Amber Fort, this majestic fort is known for its maze-like passages and serpentine staircases that are architectural masterpiece. Only 11 kilometres away from Jaipur, Amer Fort is clad in pink and yellow sandstone and is a part of an extensive complex. Built by one of the most trusted generals of Akbar, Maharaja Man Singh I in 1592, Amer Fort served as the main residence of the Rajput Rulers. The Amer Fort through its large ramparts, several gateways and paved paths overlooks the Maotha Lake in the town of Amer, which used to serve as the capital of the erstwhile Jaipur princely state. The fort is big enough that it will take you at least two to three hours to explore it in detail. Getting an elephant ride up the stairs to the Amber Fort is also a popular tourist activity. The Amer Fort was inducted into UNESCO World Heritage Site list as part of the “Hill Forts of Rajasthan” along with five other forts.
2. Jailsamer Fort, Jaisalmer
Jailsamer fort is also known as the Golden Fort and one of the biggest forts of Rajasthan. Jaisalmer fort was made famous by ‘sonar kella’ (1972) film by Satyajit Ray. The fort is a complete township in itself and one of the beautiful architectures of Indian history, and while most forts are now empty only Jaisalmer Fort is the only fort in India that is still populated. The fort is built in the classic Indian style and the beauty of the fort should be witnessed at the sunrise or sunset when the sun rays falls on the yellow sandstone architecture, it gleams like the melting gold. Jaisalmer Fort, nestled on the golden sands of Thar Desert, is not just a fort but a mini-town with houses, temples, shops, and restaurants. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it falls under the category of ‘Hill Forts of India’. Built in 1156, Jaisalmer Fort gets its name from the former Bhati Rajput ruler Rao Jaisal. More than three thousand people live within the fort walls with multiple entrance gates on the path up top, the last of which directs you to the popular public square named Dashera Chowk. The fort stands at an impressive height of 250 ft. and is surrounded by a 30 ft. tall walls. Owing to its altitude, it offers a stunning and panoramic view of Jaisalmer city draped in golden yellow! One of the largest forts in the world, Jaisalmer Fort the labyrinthine lanes is an experience worth having. Jaisalmer Fort was initially named ‘Trikut Garh’ since it was triangular in shape and was also built over the Trikuta Hills.
3. Gagron Fort, Jhalawar
Gagron fort is amongst the best known hill forts of Rajasthan and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fort which is surrounded by three rivers namely Sindh, Kali and Ahu provides a tranquil backdrop and makes a stunning sightseeing of Rajasthan which is worth cherishing all through the life. Situated in the Jhalawar district of Rajasthan, Gagron Fort is a masterpiece of Rajput architecture and a striking example of hill and water fort. The fort is built on top of a hillock and offers a mesmerizing 360 degree view of the landscape below. Besides a museum outside the fort gates, there is also a mausoleum of Sufi Saint Mitthe Shah. The saint is highly revered by the locals and every year there is a fair held during Muharram to mark the respect for him. The fort boasts of beautiful architecture, sturdy walls and an all around royal aura. In June 2013, Gagron Fort was included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list at the 37th meeting of the World Heritage Committee in Phnom Penh.
4. Jaigarh Fort, Jaipur
Jaigarh Fort is also counted as one of the massive hill forts of Rajasthan. The fort was built by Sawai Jai Singh II around in the early 18th century and the fort stands in the middle of a dry, and rocky area and is surrounded by thorny hills. A must visit for tourist visiting Jaipur. The tourists can have the panoramic view of the entire city of Jaipur standing on the parapets of the fort, especially the sparkling lights of evening is the most enthralling experience one can see from top of the fort. Jaigarh Fort is famed for the massive Jaigarh cannon. Recorded as the worlds largest cannon, the most unique thing about the cannon is that it stays super cool even in the hottest of the summer, when the temperatures soar high. Fired only once ever to its maximum distance of 28 kms, the cannon was pulled to the top of the fort with help of 2 dozen elephants.
5. Chittorgarh Fort, Chittorgarh
Chittorgarh fort at Chittorgarh, Rajasthan is the epitome of the bravery and courage of the Rajput Kings. The former home of Mewar rulers of Sisodia clan, it is also one of the important milestones of history. The fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and used to be the capital of Mewar. The fort is has numerous palaces, temples, gates, and towers in its precincts to describe every detail of the bygone era. One of the oldest forts in Rajasthan, Chittorgarh fort also called as Water Fort, the fort stood witness to the invasion of Allauddin Khilji in 13th century for the lust of Rani Padmini of Chittaur. It also had to face repeated assault from Mughal empire, when Maharana Pratap refused submission to Emperor Akbar. Akbar defeated Pratap at Haldighati to capture the fort forever. Built by local Maurya rulers in 7th century A.D, the Chittorgarh Fort in Rajasthan is one of the largest forts in India. The Chittorgarh Fort, located on a hill at 590 feet in height and is spread across 692 acres of land is a fine example of the popular Rajput architecture. The fort has many gateways built by the later rulers of the Maurya clan. Chittorgarh Fort reverberates with tales of heroism and sacrifice and displays the Rajput culture and values in the real sense. There is a long road of 1 km that leads to the Chittorgarh Fort and is quite steep. Chittorgarh Fort is also called the Water Fort as it had 84 water bodies once, but now there are only 22 of them left. The two major attractions of the fort are the towers Vijay Stambh and Kirti Stambh. Vijay Stambh refers to the tower of victory and the Kirti Stambh means tower of fame. The towers are illuminated in the evening and it looks even more beautiful. Apart from the towers, there are many palaces and temples within the premises of the fort, most notable being Meera Temple.
6. Junagarh Fort, Bikaner
Junagarh fort is located in the beautiful city of Bikaner and was built by Raja Rai Singh. Built in the year 1558 AD by Raja Rai Singh, one of most distinguished generals in the court of Mughal Emperor Akbar. This fort is built in red sandstone and known for its brilliant carvings and there are number of palaces, courtyards inside the fort. The most stunning feature of this fort are its intricately designed windows which are worth praising for their marble and stone carvings. One of the prime Tourist Places in Bikaner. Earlier called as Chintamani, Junagarh Fort was attacked several times but never been conquered. Only Kamaran Mirza, the son of Babur, was able to capture the fort but couldn’t even retain his hold for more than a day. Famous for its massive structure and architectural designs, the fort is spread over a sprawling area that is bounded by 986 m long wall. The fort comprises 37 bastions, a moat and two entrances, the Suraj Pol and the Karan Pol. Built with red sandstone, the fort has a number of palaces, courtyards, windows which are worth praising for their marble and stone carvings. Anup Mahal, Hawa Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Phool Mahal, Badal Mahal, Diwan-e-Khas, Dungar Mahal, Ganga Mahal and Rang Mahal are the prominent attractions of Junagarh.
7. Ranthambore Fort, Sawai Madhopur
Ranthambore fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and known as one of the most famous hill forts of Rajasthan. The fort is located within the areas of the Ranthambore National Park and is known as home for tigers as well as huge variety of other animals, that are a nature lovers delight. The fort used to be the seat of the Chauhan Dynasty and was captured many times by the other Muslim Kings and the Chauhan rulers. Ranthambhore Fort is said to have existed since the 12th century and is a perfect tourist attraction for those wanting to explore Royal Rajasthan. The splendid fort of Ranthambhore presents magnificent view of the national park. The dense forest that forms the Ranthambhore National Park was once the hunting ground of the royalty that lived here. The fort is surrounded by a massive wall and has strong stone pathways and staircases that lead to the top. The traditional Rajasthani architecture is visible on the massive gates, pillars, domes, palace and temples. Tourists will usually find a lot of monkeys and birds in and around the fort.
8. Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajasmand
Kumbhalgarh fort is one of the biggest forts of Rajasthan and has great historical significance. The birthplace of Maharana Pratap, ruler of Mewar, the fort is located on a hilltop and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fort wall with a circumference of over 36 sq. kms are the largest in India and second largest in the world after the Great Wall of China. Kumbhalgarh Fort is one of the most popular and best forts in Rajasthan. Built in the 15th century by Maharana Kumbha between AD 1443 and 1458, Kumbhalgarh Fort is one of the five hill forts of Rajasthan that were declared the UNESCO world heritage site in 2013. Situated in Rajsamand around 82 kilometres from Udaipur, Kumbhalgarh Fort was constructed on the foothills of Aravalli ranges. It is surrounded by thirteen hill peaks and is perched at an elevation of 1,914 m. The magnificent fort is situated in the middle of a forest which has been turned into a wildlife sanctuary. It is the second-largest and the most important Mewar fort of Rajasthan after Chittorgarh. The majestic fort was built under the direction of Mandan who was a very renowned architect of that time. The fort was constructed in the exact same place where an old castle existed which was attributed to Samprati who was a Jain prince of the second century BC. Named after the Rana Kumbha, the Kumbhalgarh fort was cleverly designed on a hilltop to provide the strategic position to the Mewar kings to protect against the attacks of the enemy. The fort has the magnificent Badal Mahal built inside the fort by Rana Fateh Singh, who was one of the most famous builders of the time. Besides Badal Mahal, Kumbha Palace, Jain Temples, Baoris, Chhattris, water reservoirs are some of the main buildings inside the spectacular fort.
