Forts and Palaces of Rajasthan

Rajasthan Is Home To Some Of The Most Stunning Forts And Palaces Across India. Ranging From Majestic To Rugged To Awesome, The Forts And Palaces Of Imperial Rajasthan Leave Everybody Speechless.

The architecture of the forts and palaces of Rajasthan is inspired by both the Rajput and Mughal styles of building. Incorporating the best of each, the monuments of Rajasthan are not just a reminder of a bygone era; most of them are also poetry in stone. Their interiors have been done up with the most luxurious of objects, sourced from across the world by well traveled Maharajas and Noblemen.

The Rajputs were prolific builders and built some very imposing forts and palaces. Many of these forts and palaces have now been turned into luxury hotels. They tell the story of a rich past. Nearly each city of Rajasthan has a fort or a palace or even both to boast of.

Who does not want to feel like a king or a queen? Even if it is during a short holiday, a stay in a fort or palace in Rajasthan can make these dreams come true. Some of the famous forts and palaces are:

Amber Fort, Jaipur

Located 11 kms from Jaipur, it served as the capital of the Kachhwaha dynasty. The buildings inside the fort were constructed by various rulers like Raja Man Singh, Raja Jai Singh I and Raja Jai Singh II. Amber Fort combines Mughal and Hindu architectural styles.

Chittorgarh Fort, Chittorgarh

The magnificent Chittorgarh Fort stands on a hill of the Aravalli Ranges. It has seven gates, namely, Padan Pol, Bhairon Pol, Hanuman Pol, Ganesh Pol, Jorla Pol, Lakshman Pol and Ram Pol. Inside the Chittorgarh Fort are the Vijay Stambh (Tower of Victory), Kirti Stambh (Tower of Fame) and Rana Kumbha Palace.

Junagarh Fort, Bikaner

The Junagadh Fort was built by Raja Rai Singh, one of the Akbar's generals. Built from pink sandstone, the fort’s many columns, arches, screens and minarets attract hordes of tourists. The Fort has several beautiful palaces inside its complex, like the Anup Mahal, Karan Mahal and Chandra Mahal.

Kumbhalgarh Fort, Udaipur

The Kumbhalgarh Fort was built by Rana Kumbha in the 15th century AD and was the second most important Fort of Mewar after Chittorgarh. The fort also houses many palaces.

Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur

The Mehrangarh Fort was constructed by Rao Jodha in 1459 AD. It is a large fort with many palaces within its ramparts e.g. the Moti Mahal, Chandan Mahal and Sheesh Mahal. The Phool Mahal or Palace of Flowers inside the fort was built as a hall of private audience and is remarkable for the rich architecture.

Sonar Fort, Jaisalmer

The foundation of the Sonar Fort or the Golden Fort in Jaisalmer was laid by the Bhatti chief Jaisal in 1156. It has four gates, Ganesh Pol, Akshya Pol, Suraj Pol and Hawa Pol. There are other magnificent buildings too within the fort like the Rang Mahal, Gaj Vilas and Moti Mahal.