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Chittorgarh Fort: Hill Forts of Rajasthan

Chittorgarh is one of the finest and the largest forts in India. It is located in Rajasthan, the land of legendary Rajput warrior princes.

Chittorgarh Fort is one of the hill forts which have been recently inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Chittorgarh Travel Facts:

Location: At a distance of 112km from Udaipur, on a high hill near the Gambheri River in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan

Built by: Various Maurya rulers and Sisodiya clan of Rajputs

Built in: 7th century A.D

Highlights: Numerous palaces and towers inside the fort

How to reach: One can easily reach Chittorgarh Fort either by taking regular buses or by hiring Taxis from Udaipur city. Chittor is 318 Km from Jaipur.

Best Time to Visit: November - February

Entry Fee: INR 5 for Indian and INR 100 or $2 for Foreigners

Chittorgarh: Hill Forts of Rajasthan

This resplendent hill fort in Rajasthan covers an area of 700 acres and extends up to 3 kilometers in length. Chittorgarh Fort is perched atop a hillock at an elevation of 180m.

This first hill fort of Rajasthan is believed to be erected by Mauryan rulers during the 7th century AD. It is also believed that the fort is named after the Mauryan ruler Chitrangada Mori, as inscribed on the coins found belonging to that period.

However, in today’s time Chittorgarh is quintessential of the romance, chivalry and valor of the Rajput rulers of Sisodia clans in Mewar and their kinsmen who held sway between the 7th and 16th centuries.

History and Anecdotes
Chittorgarh as we know it was built during the reign on founder of Sisodia Clan ruler Bappa Rawal in 734 AD.

The first ever historical mention of this hill fort in Rajasthan could be found in India’s grandest epic Mahabharata. As per the story Bhima, who was the strongest wrestler among Pandava with strength of 100 Elephants, struck a powerful blow to the land.

The massive blow of his fist resulted in water springing sprouting up to form a large reservoir. That pool is now called Bhimlat kundn after the legendary warrior. As per the legend this also resulted in construction of the fort.

Yet another legendary story associated with Chittorgarh fort is Rani Padmini. According to the legends Queen Padmini was an astounding beauty. Such was the attractiveness that stories about her poise and charisma floated to places far and wide.

When the then Sultan of Delhi Alauddin Khilji heard of the captivating charm of queen Padmini, he went to Chittorgarh to witness her beauty himself. He deceitfully told Rana Ratan Singh, husband of Padmini , his desire to behold the legendary beauty of the queen which the Rana couldn’t refuse out of politeness.

When the Sultan actually witnessed the unrivalled beauty of Padmini he lusted to take her into his harem. When Ratan Singh went to farewell the Sultan to gate he was deceitfully captured and the queen was delivered the message that Ratan Singh will only be realeased if she submits to his authority.

Queen had her own plans and she sent Rajput warriors in veils under the pretense of her train and had the Rana released. But the Rana and his entourage were chased and killed before they could enter the fort. It led to a war between the Muslim forces and Rana Ratan Singh's army, in which major parts of the Chittorgarh Fort were destroyed and many lives were lost.

Finally when the defeat was all but certain, the Rajput warriors donned their saffron robe and rode out to their death whereas the ladies led by Rani Padmini preferred to perform Jauhar (self immolation in pyre) rather than being physically abused by the lustful invaders.

Some Interesting facts about Chittorgarh Fort

• Chittorgarh Fort happens to be the largest fort in India.

• Chittorgarh Fort complex has a total of 65 medieval structures which includes4 palace complexes, 19 temples, 4 war memorials or the stambhs and 22 water bodies.

• Once upon a time this fort had 84 water bodies which could provide 50,000 soldiers with water supply for 4 years out of which only 22 remains till date.

• Chittorgarh Fort extends across 700 and is built above a hillock 300 feet in height.

• Entrance to this massive hill fort is through seven colossal gates, which are named Bhairon Pol, Lakshman Pol, Padan Pol, Hanuman Pol, Jorla Pol, Ganesh Pol and the formidable final gate named Ram Pol.

• Each of these gates have been built as massive stone structures and have sheltered ramparts for defense.

• You could see a cenotaph or "Chattri" near Bhairon Pol which was erected to honor the chivalry of Jaimal and his cousin Kala. 

• As per the legends when Jaimal got seriously injured Kala carried him into battle on his shoulders where both died fighting valiantly against the Mughal army of Akbar.

• Yet another war memorial is located at Rampol which was erected to commemorate the exemplary courage of Phatta.

•  Phatta of Kelwa was only 15 years old and had just lost his father in battle. He was sent into the battle by his mother who herself picked up a sword and died fighting against the enemy  to free her son from any affection  towards home 

• Some of the major attractions inside Chittorgarh fort include the two towers known as the 'Kirti Stambh' (Tower of Fame) and the 'Vijay Stambh' (Tower of Victory).

• Other things to do inside Chittorgarh Fort are visiting several temples, water reservoirs, and palaces which were constructed between the 9th and 17th centuries.

• Vijay Stambh or the Victory Tower was erected during the reign of Rana Kumbha to memorialize his victory over Mahmud Shah I, the ruler of Malwa, in 1440.

• Vijay Stambh rises to the height of 37.2 meters (122 ft) over a 47 square feet (4.4 m2) base spanning across 9 stories.

• You could get panoramic view of the city of Chittor by climbing up to the 8th floor of Vijay Stambh which could be accessed through circular staircase numbering 157 in total.

• Kirti Stambh or the Tower of Fame is yet another massive structure rising up to a height of 22 meter and spans over 6 storey which could be climbed up through 57 steps. 

• Built in the style of Solanki architecture by Bagherwal Jain merchant Jijaji Rathod, Kirti Stambh is dedicated to the first tirthankar Adinath.

• The sculpture of Adinath, the first Jain tirthankar is located on the second floor of the Kirti Stambh. 

• Chittorgarh Fort has witnessed 3 sieges and 2 acts of jauhars by the ladies of the Sisodia Rajput court.

• The first one to attack the then considered impregnable hill fort of Chittorgarh was Allaudin Khilji.
• Alaudin Khilji, the Sultan of Delhi sacked Chittorgarh in 1303 which legends tell us was due to his passionate desire to possess Rani Padmini. 

• Chittorgarh Fort was sacked second time by Bahadur Shah in 1535 and later by Akbar in 1567. 

• Jauhar or the self immolation in fire was first performed by Rani Padmini in 1433 AD when Alaudin Khilji defeted the forces of Rana Ratan Singh.

• It was performed yet again by Rani Karnavati in 1535 AD and it is said that 13,000 Rajput ladies participated in the act even as 3000 Rajput warriors rode out to their certain death .

• Chittor is adjacent to the ancient city of Madhyamika. The Jain inscriptions at Mathura from the Kushana period (1-3rd cent) mention a "Majjhimilla" branch of the "Kottiya" gana, indicating that it was a major Jain center.

• The famous Acharya Haribhadra Suri (6th cent) was born in Chittor and wrote "Dhurtopakhyana" there.

• The Padmini palace, residence of legendary beauty Rani Padmini is another major attraction inside Chittorgarh Fort. 

• Yet another interesting place to visit inside Chittorgarh Fort is Meerabai Temple associated with the renowned mystical poet and saint Mirabai.

• Gaumukh Pool which is fed by the spring from the mouth of a carved cow is another major place to visit in the fort. It used to be the main source of water for the fort’s resident during military seizes.

• Teej is one of the major festivals in Chittorgarh which is celebrated with great enthusiasm and in the month of July or August.

• Gangaur festival is celebrated in the month of March or April each year and is another renowned festival in the city. Married women and young girls take part in the festival.

• The fort and the city of Chittorgarh host the biggest Rajput festival called the "Jauhar Mela" ( February - March)which takes place every year on the anniversary of one of the Rani Padmini’s jauhar.

Jhansi Fort Uttar Pradesh India Tourist attraction

 

Jhansi Fort - A True Symbol of Bravery and Honor

Situated between the rivers Pahunj and Betwa in Uttar Pradesh, the city of Jhansi holds a significant place in the pages of history. Being ruled by the Marathas in the past, Jhansi has always worn the cap of courage and bravery. Once a princely state, the archaeology of Jhansi has been the notifying aspect of the place.

With numerous forts, museums and temples in its list of attractions, Jhansi has always been wandered for its enriching historical background. One such attraction is the Jhansi Fort which was built on a large hilltop called Bangira. Also known as Jhansi ka Kila, the fortress served as a stronghold of the Chandela kings in the 17th century.

Jhansi Fort, Uttar Pradesh - One of the Historical Places of India

History 

With various ups and downs, the history of the magnificent Jhansi fort revolves around the seventeenth century. It was the time when India was at its zenith of archaeology under the Mughal rule of Jahangir. The region of Jhansi under Raja Bir Singh Deo held much prominence during that time. In the year 1613, he built the Jhansi fort in order to serve as an army stronghold and garrison. The ruler of Jhansi was in the good books of the emperor Jahangir. As a consequence, when Raja Bir Singh died, the fort came under the control of Jahangir.

Later conquests in the region of Jhansi culminated in the defeat of the Mughal army by the Maharaja of Panna. The brave ruler of Panna was helped by the legendary Peshwa Baji Rao (I) in his annihilation. He then offered Jhansi to the Maratha warrior as a mark of gratitude. In the following tenure of Subedar Naroshanker in Jhansi, the boundary of the fort was extended and construction of other buildings also took place in the region.

By the time of 1840, the princely state of Jhansi was put under the control of Raja Gangadhar Rao. The Jhansi fort again came into the spotlight during this time. After the death of Gangadhar Rao, the historic fort was used by his wife Rani Lakshmi Bai as her residence. The Rani got defeated in the revolt of 1857 and the Jhansi Fort was brought into the hands of the imperial British control.

Jhansi Fort Structure

The historic Jhansi fort extends to a vast perimeter of 15 acres and with a mammoth strengthening wall on the sides, it proved as a tough intrusion for the enemies in the past. Based on North Indian style of construction, the granite walls of the Fort are kept between 16 and 20 feet thick. Construction of the fort is supported by twenty two bastions having a dimension near to 312 m in length and 225 m in width. For the entry into the sprawling lawns of the fort, there are 10 entry gates.

Once inside the Jhansi fort, one is expected to come across the two famous temples-Shiva temple and Ganesh temple. Besides the temples, the fort also houses the Panch Mahal and Kadak Bijli canon which was highly used in the freedom struggle of 1857.

Other important tourist attractions of the fort include Baradari, Shahar Darwaza, Grave of Gulam Gaus Khan, Execution tower and Kal Kothari. There is also a memorial board present, which reminds the death defying jump of Rani Lakshmibai on her horseback in an attempt to flee the British army after a heroic fight.  

Jhansi Fort - Timings and entry fee

Good for history buffs, the Jhansi fort is open for all days of the week between the hours of the morning 6 to evening 6.  The entry fee is kept very basic at Rs 5 per person for Indians, while the foreigners have to pay Rs 200 for the same.

How to Reach Jhansi

Jhansi city is well within the reach by Air, rail and road. The nearest airport is at Gwalior, a town hundred kilometers from Jhansi. Rail route is also viable as Jhansi junction is well connected to the rest of India. Besides, one can even take a road trip via the local and state transport bus services.

Gwalior Fort, Madhya Pradesh tourist guide

 

Gwalior Fort, Madhya Pradesh: A Travel Guide

One of the best places to visit in Madhya Pradesh, Gwalior Fort is one of the oldest and resplendent fortresses in India. The fort came into prominence around 8th century under the rule of Rajput Tomar kings. This sprawling hill fort houses several structures of note that include 2 palaces, several temples and water tanks.

The fort's rule changed several hands that include Rajputs, Mamluks, Suris, Mughals, Marathas and British. To get a peek into the turbulent history and legends associated with Gwalior Fort, do attend the Son et Lumiere which is held every night at the open air amphitheater inside the fort complex.

Gwalior Fort, Madhya Pradesh, India

Gwalior Fort, Travel Facts:

Location: Seated at the hilltop, around 100 meters above the city level, the fort  is around 7 km from the Gwalior railway station.

Built by: The fort is believed to have been built by Raja Man Singh Tomar, however, in the course of five hundred years the fort went from one ruler to another.

Built in: Gwalior Fort was built in the 8th-century.

Highlights: The fort consists of three temples, six palaces and numerous water tanks. It is 35 feet high and is about 2 miles in length.

How to reach: One can easily get to the fort from the city by bus, taxi, auto, rickshaw or even by walking if there is time.

Best time to visit: November- January.

Entry fee: INR 75 per head (adult); INR 40 per head (children); INR 250 per head (foreign tourist)

Standing on a steep mass of sandstone, Gwalior fort gives a clear view of the east of Gwalior. The fort comprises of two main palaces: Man Mandir and Gujari Mahal. Besides the main two palaces there are other recommended places like the Man Singh Palace, Jauhar Kund, Jahangir Mahal, Sahahjahan Mahal and more. The temples and the monuments are of different religion mostly Hindu and Jain.

The fort’s dramatic entrance named the Hathi pul (elephant gate) is on the eastern side. A steep road winds upwards to the Fort, and along the way there are Jain sculptures cut into the rock which is well worth the climb.

History and Anecdotes: 

Gwalior's history is traced back to a legend. In 8 A.D, a chieftain called Suraj Sen was stricken by leprosy. Hermit saint, Gwalipa, cured him and in gratitude the chieftain founded the city which he named after the saint who had given him the gift of new life.

Over the centuries the city has been captured by many dynasties when slowly it became popular. The different rulers in the city brought about diversity and a new taste each time, which is evident in the architecture and designs till today.

The earliest record of the fort is  525 AD where it is mentioned in an inscription in the temple of the Hun. The fort was made to serve as a prison by the Mughals.  

It is believed that the Gujari Mahal is a momento of Raja Mansingh Tomar’s love for his Gujar Queen, Mrignayani. The palace is made beautifully and so is the other palace, Man Mandir with its outer walls are distinctively decorated with blue mosaic tiles and rows of yellow ducks.

The fort is a prominent landmark of the city as it stands upright and broad, it has served the purpose well during the times of battles, imprisonments and jauhars.

Some Interesting Facts about the Gwalior Fort:

• The Fort is one of the biggest forts in India.

• It covers an area of 3 square kilometers and is 35 feet high. 

• There are eleven temples of Gautama Buddha and Tirthankars of Jainism.There are also a number of palaces (mahal).

• There are two gates, one on the northeast side with a long access ramp and other on the southwest. The main entrance is the Elephant gate and the other is the Badalgarh Gate.

• The water tanks or the reservoirs of the Fort could provide water to a 15000 strong garrison, they were required to secure the fort.

• One of the palaces of the fort, Gujari Mahal has been converted into an archeological museum.

• Every evening a light and sound show is presented in the Fort’s open amphitheater.

• On the same hill is the famous boarding school, which is exclusive for the sons of princes and nobles, Scindia School. It was founded by Madho Rao Scindia in 1897.

• There are many festivals and fairs that take place in Gwalior during the winter seasons: Gwalior Annual Trade Fair is famous to experience the native culture and for shopping.

• Tansen Music Festival, is held in honor of Tansen who was from the city.This festival ensures you a journey of Indian classical music.

• Gwalior Carnival, which started recently by the tourism department of the city is an event that includes various activities like dance, music, food, spiritual camps and sports.

Daulatabad Fort Aurangabad Maharashtra : A Travel Guide

 

Daulatabad Fort: A Travel Guide

The fort city, Daulatabad, in Maharashtra is located at a distance of 16 km northwest of Aurangabad. Daulatabad was earlier called Devgiri. 

Daulatabad province is situated 13 kilometers away from Aurangabad. Literally meaning the city of fortune, Daulatabad is home to the resplendent 12th century fortress perched on the lush hillock. This impregnable fort complex features a 5 kilometer fortified wall and massive ramparts.

We have earlier featured Daulatabad Fort as one of the best forts in India.

In 1327, the city was the capital of Muhammad bin Tughlaq (r. 1325-1351), Tughlaq dynasty. He forcibly shifted the population of Delhi to Daulatabad and also altered the name. But, after two years, the city was abandoned due to scarcity of water.

Daulatabad is a 14th-century fort city in Maharashtra, India, about 16 kilometers northwest of Aurangabad

• Location: Daulatabad, about 16 km northwest of Aurangabad, Maharashtra.
• Built By: Raja Bhillamraj (Yadava General) on the Deogiri Hill.
• Built In: 12th Century.
• Highlights: Hathi Haud, Bharat Mata Temple, Chand Minar, Andheri, Baradari.
• How to Reach: Along the Aurangabad-Ellora Road (NH 211). Aurangabad is well-connected with various railways, airways and roadways.
• Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year.
• Entry Fee: Indians - INR 5; Foreigners - $2 or INR 100.

Fort of Deogire
The hill-fortress of Deogire/Devagiri/Daulatabad stands on a conical hill, at an altitude of 200 m. The fort signifies exemplary strength. The fort could be accessed by a narrow bridge. The fort features a long gallery, which has been excavated in the rock and most of the regions on the gallery have a gradual upward slope.

In the mid of this gallery, there are steep stairs that lead to the place where the garrison placed the fire during the time of war.

Moving ahead, one could find the massive old cannon, facing towards the countryside. The fort also features a cave entrance that was constructed to confuse the enemies.

History
The fort was occupied about 100 BCE, and today is regarded as the remains of Buddhist caves like those caves of Ajanta and Ellora. The city of Daulatabad is said to be established by Bhillama V in c. 1187. Prince Bhillama V is said to be dedicated to the Chalukyas and founder of the powerful Yadava Dynasty in the west.

In the year 1294, the fortress was occupied by Ala-ud-din Khilji. Later, the fortress was again captured in 1307 and 1310 by the Muslims under Malik Kafur.

The site also became an important base of the Delhi Sultanate for its conquering operations made towards the south. Muhammad bin Tughluq, in the year 1327 made Devagiri as his capital and changed its name to Daulatabad.

Some Interesting Facts

• The circumference of the outer wall of the fort is 2.75 miles (4.43 km).
• There are three lines of defenses between the upper fort and the base.
• Hathi Haud is a great attracting feature in Daulatabad. It measures 47.75 m in length, 46.75 m in width and 6.61 m in depth.
• Bharat Mata Temple has two openings, one towards the east and another to the north. The temple measures 87.14 m East-West and 72.80 m North-South.
• Chand Minar was built in AD 1447 by Sultan Alau-ud-din-Bahmani (Sultan Ahmed Shah 2). It measures 70 m in height and 21 m in circumference at the base.
• Andheri is a serpentine dark passage. This was constructed as a defense mechanism and was never occupied.
• Baradari was constructed in A.D 1636 for the visit of Shah Jahan (A.D 1627-1658). This structure consisted of 13 halls.
• Chini Mahal, or China Palace, is the remains of a building which was once recognized for great beauty. Here, the last of the Qutb Shahi kings of Golconda, Abul Hasan Tana Shah, was incarcerated in 1687 by Aurangzeb.

Jaisalmer Fort, Rajasthan india A Travel Guide

 

Jaisalmer Fort, Rajasthan: A Travel Guide

Jaisalmer Fort, constructed in the 12th century, is one of the lively monuments providing shelter for the population of the city.

The use of yellow sandstone in the construction of the Jaisalmer Fort of Rajasthan provides an amazing look of a ship. Visitors from far could relate the fort as a ship sailing on sea of golden sand.

Jaisalmer Fort in Rajasthan is renowned for its distinct golden appearance and also referred to as Sonar Qila

The fort in Jaisalmer is also popular as Ship Fort. We have previously features Jaisalmer Fort as one of the top 10 forts in India.

Jaisalmer fort amazes the visitors with its magnificent look. Apart from this, the characteristic of change in the color of the walls and pavements of the fort according to the daylight has also attracted tourists to spend quality time exploring the fort.

Jaisalmer fort is lively throughout the day as one could find women walking with pots of milk and children running down the streets.

Dussehra Chowk is the main courtyard of the Jaisalmer fort. One could find small shops, hotels, eateries, and people in colorful traditional dresses.

As you explore the architectural brilliance of the fort, it is easy to get lost in this sprawling fort complex. To ensure the best of the exploration experience, you could hire travel guides at the entrance Gopa Chowk of the Jaisalmer Fort.

Insider tip: Do not settle for more than INR 400 as guide fee.

• Location: Jaisalmer (Rajasthan, India)
• Area: 5.1 sq km
• Altitude: 255 meters
• Built By: Bhati Rajput Ruler Rao Jaisal
• Built In: 1156 AD
• Highlights: Raj Mahal (Royal Palace), Laxminath Temple, Jain Temples, Merchant Havelis, 4 Massive Gateways, etc.
• How to Reach: Through a rickshaw or an auto-rickshaw or a taxi from the Jaisalmer Airport/Railway Station.
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Entry Fee: Indians - INR 30; Foreigners - INR 70.

The Jaisalmer Fort
The Jaisalmer Fort, standing 250 feet off the ground is popular amidst the travelers from all round the globe due to its architectural brilliance and historic significance.

Jaisalmer fort is different from other historic forts in Rajasthan as this fort provides shelter to the population of Jaisalmer. Along with residences, you could spot restaurants, guesthouses, shops, etc. One could also spot large, round stones around the streets. These were once hurled down narrow paths against the invaders coming from Jodhpur.

History
Jaisalmer City played a very crucial role in trade with Arabia, Africa, Persia, and Egypt, during the medieval era. The fort consists of wall of three layers. The lower or say the outer layer of the fort is made up of solid stone blocks.

The middle or the second layer of the fort wall snakes all over the fort, and the third or innermost layer of the wall was were the Rajput Warriors used to throw boiling water or oil on the enemies.

The warriors also used to throw massive rocks to block their way. The fort included 99 bastions in total. Out of these, 92 bastions were built between 1633-47 A.D.

In the 13th century, the fort was attacked and captured by Ala-ud-din Khilji. He managed to hold his rule on the fort for almost 9 years. In 1541, the second battle was fought and Mughal emperor Humayun attacked the Jaisalmer fort city.

Some Interesting Facts:

• Sonar Kila is an alternate name of Jaisalmer Fort. The fort is adorned with golden hues during the dusk and dawn.
• The Jaisalmer fort is built on an 80 feet sandstone hillock and is 250 feet high.
• The fort provides shelter to almost 4,000 people.
• The Jaisalmer Fort is the 2nd oldest fort of Rajasthan.
• There are 3-layer protective fort walls that helped in keeping the enemies at bay.
• The 93 of the 99 bastions were constructed during 1633-47 A.D.
• The fort has 99 bastions as of today and a 93 of them were built between 1633-47 A.D.
• The Rajput women committed jauhar when the fort was attacked by Ala-ud-din Khilji.
• The depiction of the fort has been made in the detective novel written by Satyajit Ray. Later, a movie was made and titled as “Sonar Kella”.
• The fort also played a crucial role during the medieval times in the trade route. The introduction of sea trade route of the British led to the downfall of the fort as a trade route.

Amber Fort - JAIPUR Tourist Places in India

 

Amber Fort - Tourist Places in India Amber Fort: Attraction in India

Amber Fort, also known as Amer ka Qila, is located in the periphery of the pink city Jaipur, Rajasthan. Forts are one of the reason Rajasthan is visited by tourists from around the world. It was built by Raja Man Singh in 1592 and known for its artistic style which is a seamless fusion of both Islamic and Rajput architecture.

Traditionally dressed women entering the Palace Complex inside Amber Fort. Notice the exquisite carvins and stucco work and floral paintings

Amber Fort is the largest fort in Jaipur and the most visited forts in India.  Millions of tourists from India and overseas arrive in Jaipur to visit Amber Fort every year. It also featured on the itinerary of India’s royal luxury trains including Maharajas Express, Palace on Wheels and Royal Rajasthan on Wheels.

Amber Fort History:  

Amer was known in the medieval period as and ruled by the Kachwahas from the 11th century till it was moved to City Palace, Jaipur in 1727 AD. Current fort as it stands today was constructed over the ruins of a small palace built by the Meenas. Meenas worshipped Amba as their patron goddess also worshipped as ‘Gatta Rani. 

The foundation of Amer ka Qila was laid in 1592 during the reign of Raja Man Singh. Man Sing was an important ally of Akbar in this region and became a part of the ‘navratnas’, the inner circle of nine courtiers, He also went on to become the commander of Mughal Army during Akbar’s reign. The fort was fully expanded and several palaces were built during the reign of Jai Singh I, after which the city of Jaipur has been named.

Architecture

Amber fort was built on the bank of a lake over a hillock and it could be reached through flight up stairs or on Elephants too. There are massive walls sprawling in all directions which could remind you of the Great Wall of China. The fort built in pretty pastel yellow color and divided into four main sections each with its own entry gate and courtyard. The material used for building of palace complex is red stone and marbles.

Attractions in Amber Fort:

If you are taking the ceremonial way (the way maharajas used to travel) riding an elephant up the paved causeway, the gate opens into several havelis, large courtyards and a temple located flight up stairs. This is where the maharajas where welcomed after returning from battles of state visit and this is where queens prayed for the well being of kings after they took the blessing of Shila Devi, the parton goddess of Kachwahas Clan. The magnificent Shila Devi temple has an ornately carved silver door.

After your entrance inside the main complex, do visit the Sheesh Mahal or chamber of mirrors which is exquisitely designed and used to be the pleasure palace of the maharajas of Jaipur, Jas Mandir with its floral ceilings and latticed windows is an awesome sight too. Other attractions inside the fort complex are Diwan-e-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), Diwan-e-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), and the Sukh Niwas.

Front Facade of the magnificent Amber Fort , one of the largest and most visited forts in India

How to Reach in Amber Fort: 

The Amber fort is about 12 km distance from Jaipur Railway Station. Buses, taxis and Jeeps are very convenient and comfortable transports to reach in Amber fort. And there is also 10 minutes climbing distance between roads to the fort.

Entry Fee in Amber Fort

Entry Fee - Indian - Rs 10 and with professional photography camera Fee- for Still- Rs 50 and For Video – Rs 100

Foreigner - Rs 50 and with professional camera Fee – for Still- Rs 70 and for Video – Rs 150

Child - Rs 10

Best Time to Visit in Amber Fort

Best Time October to February is the best time to visit in Amber Fort. And the fort opens every day 9.00 am to 4.30 PM.

 

Red Fort, New Delhi: A Travel Guide

Red Fort is one of the most popular tourist destinations of Delhi. The Red sandstone fortifications of the enormous Red Fort which rises 33-m above the shouts and screams of Old Delhi, acts as a reminder of the glorious power and spectacle of the Mughal emperors, and thus it attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world, every year. It is also the largest monument in Old Delhi.

Red Fort, Delhi 

Location:Red Fort is located at Netaji Subhash Marg in Chandni Chowk, which is a very popular site of Old Delhi.

Built by: Shah Jahan, the Mughal Emperor.

Built in: During the 17th Century.

Highlights: Sound and light show depicting Mughal Empires, Indian war memorial Museum

How to Reach: From the capital city, local transport is easily available to the Red Fort. Besides the Delhi Metro Chandni Chowk station is the nearest metro station to the Red Fort from where reach the fort within 10 minutes by road. From the Delhi airport you can reach the fort within 30-35 minutes by road.

Best time to visit: Due to the scorching heat of New Delhi in summers, winters are the best season to visit the Red Fort.

Entry Fee: 10 INR for Indian Nationals and 250 INR for Foreign Nationals (25 INR extra for video)

Timings: Sunrise to Sunset (Closed on Monday)

Introduction

Built by the Mughals, in the 17th century, The Red Fort is one of the most remarkable structures present in modern day Delhi.

Lahore Gate, the main gate, is one of the symbolic and emotional focal point of the modern Indian nation. Huge crowd of public gathers around it, every year, on Independence Day.

Inside is a veritable treasure trove of buildings, including the Hall of Public Audiences, the white marble Hall of Private Audiences, Drum House, Royal Baths, Palace of Color  and the Pearl Mosque. The vaulted arcade of Chatta Chowk, a bazaar selling tourist trinkets, leads into the huge fort compound.

The sound and light show in the evening gives a dramatic representation of Mughal Empire and recreates the events connected with the fort.

History of the Red Fort

The Red Fort was constructed by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan in 17th century and it served as the residence of the Mughal Emperors and the palace for Shah Jahan's new capital, Shahjahanabad.

Shah Jahan ordered the construction of the Red Fort in 1638 when he shifted the capital of India from Agra to Delhi and Ustad Ahmad was chosen as the architect.

The construction was completed by 1648 and it was originally titled as "Qila-i-Mubarak". Shah Jahan's successor, Aurangzeb, built barbicans in front of the two main gates, thus making the entrance route to the fort more circuitous. He also added the Moti Masjid to emperor’s private quarters.

Aurangzeb’s dictatorial rule led to the downfall of Mughals rule and thus, there was a collapse of palace and inhabitants of Red Fort. After a span of 30 years, in 1712, Jahandar Shah took over the Red Fort and a year later he was murdered and replaced by Farukhsiyar.

By 1783, the throne of Red Fort kept changing hands between the Marathas and Mughals, after which the Sikh Misl Karorisinghia, led by Baghel Singh Dhaliwal, conquered Delhi and the Red Fort. Sikhs signed a deal with Mughals giving the throne of Red Fort to Shah Alam, only if they agree to protect and construct seven Gurudwaras in Delhi.

In 1803, the Britishers gained control over the administration of Mughal Empire. Bahadur Shah Zafar was the last Mughal emperor to occupy the fort.

Significant Structures at Red Fort

• Diwan-i-Aam

One of the most interesting sites of Red fort, Diwan-i-Aam or the all of Public Audiences acted as the Mughal emperor’s confession room. The Emperor would listen to the pleas and requests of the common public in this hall. It was also used for various state functions during the Mughal rule. There are many more interesting structures behind the Diwan-i-Aam in the courtyard.

• Hayat Bakhsh Bagh

The Mughals constructed the Hayat Bakhsh Bagh or “Life-bestowing Garden” at red Fort to symbolically represent paradise on Earth. The garden comprises of aesthetically carved structures and beautifully grown flowers and tress of various species that are a must-watch sight.

• Diwan-i-Khas

Diwan-I-Khas or the Hall of Private audiences was used by the Mughal emperors to hold their private meetings with courtiers and state guests.

Diwan-i-Khas by mike matthews, via Wikimedia Commons

• Delhi Gate

Delhi gate is the Southern public gate from which the tourists can enter the Red Fort.

• Moti Masjid

Moti masjid or the Pearl mosque was built by Aurangzeb, in 1659, which is a small mosque carved with white marble.To the west of the hammam is the Moti Masjid, the Pearl Mosque.

• Lahore Gate

This acts as the main gate of Red Fort and from the ramparts of Lahore Gate, the Prime Minister of the country gives his Independence Day speech.

• Zenana

Zenanas or the women’s quarters are the southernmost pavilions of the palace. The women of the palace used to reside in the Zenanas during the Mughal Empire.

Significance of Red Fort today

The aesthetics, planning and construction of the Red Fort symbolizes the pinnacle of Mughal creativity that was prevalent during the rule of Mughals in India.

After India gained independence The Red Fort continued to be under the control of Indian Army which they used as their cantonment till 22 December 2003. Now it is handed over for restoration and preservation to the Archaeological Survey of India.

Prime Minister of India hoists the National Flag at Red Fort every year on 15th August which is celebrated as India’s Independence Day, after which he gives his national speech.

Also, The Red Fort acts as a tourist site for the public which shows a light and sound show every evening depicting Mughal history. Today, a sound and light show describing Mughal history is a popular tourist attraction in the evenings.

Also, people can witness the archaeological and Indian war memorial museum which is filled with “blood paintings” that depict the story of young Indian martyrs. The retail mall at Lahore Gate is also a popular tourist attraction at Red Fort.

6 युवा वय के मुमुक्षु भाई एक साथ दीक्षा ग्रहण करेंगे

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