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Amber Fort
Rajasthan is the land of palaces and forts. The Rajputs were famous warriors and they never lacked the initiative or the energy or the need to build these fortified defensive structures. The Amber Fort stands tall symbolizing their power.
Located about 11 km away from Jaipur the Amber Fort belonged to the Kachhwaha clan who ruled for seven centuries. The construction activity was not completed during the reign of a single ruler. Man Singh I started the construction activity in 1592 and it was completed by Sawai Jai Singh.
What strikes one foremost is that there is a stark contrast between its tough and intimidating exterior and its easy and solacing interior. Built of white marble and red sandstone, it is a unique combination of the Rajasthani and Mughal style of architecture.
A very interesting aspect of a visit to the Amber fort is that one can approach this fort by taking an elephant which is certainly very enjoyable even though a bit time consuming.
One enters the fort through the Singh Pol gateway. After entering the fort one can either enter the palace complex or the Shila Mata Complex. In the latter there is a large white marble temple dedicated to the goddess Kali. The story goes that Raja Man Singh brought the image of this goddess from Jessore in East Bengal (present Bangladesh).The gate of this temple has an image of Ganesha which is carved from a single piece of coral.
The Ganesh Pol gateway marks the entrance to the main complex of the Palace.
Here we find the Diwan-i-am or the Hall of Public audience which constitutes of latticed galleries and pillars and columns. Beautiful paintings depicting hunting scenes and carvings enhance the beauty of the walls. An ivory inlaid sandalwood door adorns the Sukh Niwas or Hall of Pleasure. The famous Sheesh Mahal glittering with all its brilliance because the walls are covered with mirrors is witnessed here.
The Maota Lake in front of the fort lends it an additional charm. This fort with its imposing exterior and aesthetically appealing interior should not be missed on any account.
Tourism of India provides detailed information about the Amber Fort in Jaipur and offers on-line booking for a package tour of the city of Jaipur wherein Amber Fort is included.
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