Monuments of Rajasthan

A historic land, Rajasthan has been ruled by several kingdoms and rulers. During their rules the kings built a number of structures across the state that include palaces, forts and temples. Even today after several years of their construction, the monuments of Rajasthan attract tourists in large number. Monuments of Rajasthan are known for their architecture and designing patterns. So, pay a visit to the forts, palaces and temples of Rajasthan to get a glimpse of the bygone era.

Amber Fort : Amber or Amer Fort lies at a distance of 11 kms from Jaipur. Perched on the Aravalli hills, the fort is a perfect example of Rajput passion for grandeur and their patriotism. Raja Man Singh I started the construction of the fort, additions were made later by Mirza Raja Jai Singh and Sawai Jai Singh. Amber Fort offers a number of attractions for visitors in forms of palaces, temples and gardens. Elephant ride across the fort is another attraction and after sitting on elephant’s back on feels him/herself like a Rajput king or queen. A superb example of Rajpur and Mughal style of architecture, the fort has several interesting structures like the Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas, Sheesh Mahal, Jag Mandir and Sukh Niwas.

Jaisalmer Fort : Jaisalmer Fort is perched atop the Trikuta Hills, amidst the golden stretches of desert sand. A yellow sandstone fort, Jaisalmer fort was built by Maharaja Rai Jaisala in 1156. Today the fort narrates the tales of war, romance, sacrifice and chivalry of Rajput rulers. Jaisalmer Fort draws large number of tourists due to impressive outside grandeur, massive gates and a number of interesting structures within the fort walls.

Mehrangarh Fort : Mehrangarh literally meaning ‘majestic fort’ is the main attraction of Jodhpur city. Set atop 150 mt high hill, the massive fort overshadows other attractions of the city. Originally the fort was constructed by founder of the city Rao Jodha in 1459. However, much of the fort that stands today was built by Jaswant in the 17th century. Mehrangarh Fort is surrounded by 36 mtr high and 21 mts wide walls, having seven gates namely Jaya Pol, Fateh Pol, Loh Pol, Suraj Pol etc. Inside the fort there are a number of picturesque palaces such as Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), Phool Mahal (Flower Palace), Sukh Mahal (Pleasure Palace), Umaid Mahal, Zhanki Mahal, Zenana Mahal, Rang Maha and Chandan Mahal. Besides palaces, the fort also houses a cenotaph and a temple.

Jaigarh Fort : Just 15 km from Jaipur, Jaigarh Fort is a perfect example of a true citadel built by the Rajputs. Like other forts of Rajasthan, the fort is not ornamented with carvings and especially built to bolster the defense of Amer. Built in between the 15th and 18th centuries, the fort can be entered through the Dungar Darwaza. Jaigarh fort has a museum with a collection of wide range of armoury used by the Rajput rulers. Shubhat Niwas, Jaivana (world’s largest cannon) and water channels are other attractions of the fort.

Other popular forts of Rajasthan : Nahargarh Fort (Jaipur), Junagarh Fort (Bikaner), Khimsar Fort (Nagaur), Ranthambore Fort (Sawai Madhopur), Castle Mandawa (Mandawa) and Chittaurgarh Fort (Chittaurgarh).

City Palace (Jaipur) : City Palace of Jaipur was built by Sawai Maharaja Jai Singh in the 18th century, who was also the founder of the city. Additions and modification were continued in the palace complex for next two centuries. Earlier the palace was used for official purpose, but not serves as a museum. Built with a fine combination of Rajasthani and Mughal style of architecture, the palace has two entrances. Mubarak Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas, Diwan-I-Aam, Chandra Mahal, Sukh Niwas, Shobha Niwas and Shri Govindji Temple are the highlights of city palace complex.

Jantar Mantar : An engineering marvel, Jantar Mantar was constructed by Sawai Raja Jai Singh, between 1728-34. Janatar Mantar is an observatory based on the astronomical studies conducted by Sawai Jai Singh and his men around the world. Kranti Yantra, Jai Prakash Yantra, Samrat Yantra, Rashivalayas Yantra, Dakshina Yantra, Disha Yantra, Unnathamsa Yantra, Raj Yantra, Narivalya Yantra and the Dhruv Yantra are the prominent instruments of the astronomical observatory.

Hawa Mahal : Jaipur’s landmark, Hawa Mahal is a bee-hive like structure and greets to visitors. Sawai Raja Pratap Singh ordered the construction of the palace, with an aim to provide a glimpse of the outer world to the royal ladies. A five storeyed pyramid shape structure, Hawa Mahal is made up of 953 small casements each with small lattice worked pink window, small balconies and arched roods. Hawa Mahal also has an archaeological museum.

City Palace (Udaipur) : One of the most remarkable constructions of the Rajput rulers, City Palace stands in the heart of Udaipur. Towering over the beautiful Pichola lake, the palace infuses a sense of awe in the souls of its onlookers. Maharana Udai Singh initiated the construction of the palace, subsequent rulers made further additions and modifications. Of course, the exterior of the palace in not as elegant as the interiors, but it mesmerize the visitors with its beautiful surroundings. Old part of the palace now serves as a museum, while the two of the newer portions have been converted into hotel.

Other Palaces : All over Rajasthan there are several magnificent palaces and many of them are now converted into heritage hotels. Some of the famous palaces of Rajasthan include Rambagh Palace (Jaipur), Narain Niwas Palace (Jaipur), Jai Mahal Palace (Jaipur), Umaid Bhavan Palace (Jodhpur), Bhanwar Niwas Palace (Bikaner), Lal Garh Palace (Bikaner), Sariska Palace (Sariska), Jagmandir Palace (Udaipur), Lake Palace (Udaipur) and Udai Vilas Palace (Udaipur)

Religious Monuments Other Monuments : Rajasthan is dotted with a number of religious monuments and other monuments built by the Rajputs and other rulers. Some of the famous monuments of the state are Eklingji Temple (Udaipur), Dilwara Temples (Mount Abu), Birla Temple (Jaipur), Dargah Ajmer Sharif (Ajmar), Brahma Temple (Pushkar) and Ranakpur Jain Temples.

My Visit to Kumbhalgarh

                                                                                                        

Hi friends, before telling anything, first I want to say extensive travelling is my favourite hobby. Hence, exploring more and more new destinations and their attractions remains a regular affair for me. Ohhhhh! I forget to introduce myself. My name is Somak, a young man, from Hamburg city of Germany. Recently, I visited the state of Rajasthan, which is known for its desert and a number of exquisite forts and palaces. During my trip to Rajasthan I visited a number of destinations, amongst them Kumbhalgarh Fort was notable one.

Situated in the Mewar region of Rajasthan, the origin of Kumbhalgarh dates back to second century AD and known for its massive fort. Yellow and crinkly pages of history tells that the Kumbhalgarh Fort was built in 15 th century by the great Rana Kumbha. Later in the 19th century, Maharana Fateh Singh renovated the fort.     

Kumbhalgarh Fort is encircled by a 36 km long wall, with thick enough to accommodate eight horses abreast. A self-sufficient fort, Kumbhalgarh was built with almost everything within its premises, with a view to endure a long siege. A number of palaces as well as temples inside the fort add to its appeal.

Besides this fort, Kumbhalgarh is known for a number of other attractions too. Kumbhalgarh wildlife sanctuary is the perfect place for the nature lovers. It is home to some of the exotic species of animals as well as birds. Next, there is Muchchal Mahavir temple, dedicated to Lord Mahavira and Haldighati, the venue of a famous historical battle. One thing is for sure, that you will not be disappointed with a visit to this fortress city. Plan a trip to Kumbhalgarh, to see the magnificent fort and a variety of wildlife in the wildlife sanctuary.

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