In geographical terms, Rajasthan is the biggest state in India set amidst the arid Thar Desert. This state snuggles some of the most spellbinding architectural marvels that includes magnificent temples, forts and palaces. Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, is the capital of Rajasthan. The astronomical observatory Jantar Mantar, charming palace on the lake Jal Mahal and the pipe organ shaped Palace of Winds or Hawa Mahal are Jaipur’s pride.
About 11 kilometres from Jaipur rests Amber, formerly a city of Rajasthan which is now a part of Jaipur City. Amber nestles one of the most enchanting attractions in Rajasthan, the historical citadel of Kachchawa Clan who were the former rulers of Amber. This formidable fortress is known as the Amber Fort, and it straddles a green capped low hill that towers the serene Maotha Lake.
Amber Fort is an old palace complex surrounded by a fort. It was built atop a former structure that was constructed by the Meenas, a ruling tribe of a bygone era. The fortress you see today was built in the 16th century by the great Raja Man Singh I, a ruler of Kachchawa Clan. Amber Fort was later revamped by Raja Jai Singh I in the 17th century.
Mughal and Hindu architectural concepts blended in harmony, defining the design of Amber Fort. This fort is built with white marble and red sandstones, which giving its exterior an imposing appearance. Conversely the structures within the fort are teeming with ornate decorations and motifs running from the base to walls and to the tip of the roofs.
The lofty columns in the Hall of Audience display exquisite carvings up to their corbel brackets. Ganesh Pol marking the entrance to the palace complex is entirely covered in vibrant motifs and completed with an image of Lord Ganesh. As you explore further you will come across charming arched columns in the Queen’s area besides some weatherworn belfries soaring towards the heavens.
Some of the rooms within the palace of Amber Fort are meticulously embellished with tiny mirrors that are immersed in a sea of vivid patterns. The palace complex also nestles temples and courtyards where you will encounter the giant silver lions. Amber Fort is like a comprehensive gallery of art for it even presents refined bass-relief designs within one of its temples.
A tour in Amber Fort is akin to rediscovering history whilst admiring rich artistry and architecture of Rajasthan. If you are touring in Udaipur, Rajasthan it will take you only around ten hours to reach Jaipur, where Amber Fort sits only minutes away from Jaipur. Reserve a room at one of the finest Udaipur hotels such as The Leela Palace Kempinski Udaipur (http://www.theleela.com/hotel-udaipur.html), set in the scenic backdrop of Lake Pichola. You can also get quick links to Udaipur city centre as it rests only four kilometres from here.
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