Amer Fort, which is roosted on a hill near Jaipur, is one of the most magnificent palaces in India. Commonly known as Amber Fort, this majestic building with maze-like paths and winding stairs is a significant architectural masterpiece in Indian history. Amer Fort timings are 8 AM to 7 PM.
Just 11 km from Jaipur, Amer Fort is covered with pink and yellow sandstone and is part of a vast complex. Amer Fort, built in 1592 by Maharaja Man Singh I, one of Akbar’s most loyal generals, served as the central place of the Rajput rulers.
Amer Fort Overview
Contents
- 1 Amer Fort Overview
- 1.1 Why is Fort Amer famous?
- 1.2 Is Amer Fort Worth Visiting?
- 1.3 Is it Amer Fort or Amber Fort?
- 1.4 When was Amer Fort built?
- 1.5 How many steps, Amber Fort?
- 1.6 How long does it take to climb Amer fort?
Amber Fort overlooks Lake Mawota in the town of Amer by its large ramparts, numerous gateways, and paved roads, which was the capital of the former princely state of Jaipur.
The castle is huge; it takes at least two to three hours to explore it in detail, and you can even choose audio guides to guide you through this majestic building, explaining the area’s history.
Reaching an elephant ride up the stairs to Amber Fort is also a popular tourist activity. The fort attracts around 5,000 visitors daily. To be exact, Amer Fort was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the “Rajasthan Hill Forts” region and five other forts.
What is the History of Amer Fort?
Amer was a small town before the Kachwaha’s rule, built by a small tribe called the ‘Minas.’ Amer Fort derives its name from Ambikeshwar, another name for Lord Shiva. However, locals believe the name had derived from Amba, another name for Goddess Durga.
Once known as Dhundar, the city was ruled by the Kachchavahas from the 11th century to the 16th century and eventually shifted to the capital, Jaipur.
The fort was built in AD 1592 by Raja Man Singh and his successors for the next 150 years, with efforts to expand and rebuild it.
The old palace ‘Kadimi Mahal’ is considered the oldest palace in the country. Raja Man Singh also dedicates a small temple to his patron deity ‘Sheila Mata.’ With many old buildings demolished and new ones brought in, Fort Amer stood enthusiastically against all odds.
Amber Fort Architecture
Amer Fort has a classic Hindu and Rajputana architectural style. It is aesthetically pleasing with marble and red sandstone, making it look rustic and creepy. There are intricate paintings of antique hunting styles and portraits of important Rajput rulers.
Amer Fortress had four sections, each with its entrance and courtyard. The main entrance to the fort is known as the ‘Suraj Pole’ or the Sun Gate, which leads to the main courtyard. The east-facing gate bears this name because of its position relative to the rising sun.
The stairs lead to the impressive courtyard called ‘Jaleb Chowk’ to the palace complex, while the stairs on the right lead to the Siladevi Temple.
Jaleb Chowk used the army to demonstrate their war exploitation, where women were only allowed to watch the activities through the windows.
Diwan-e-Am (Public Audience Hall) forms the second level of Amber Fort. It is a huge hall that opens on three sides. The elaborate mosaic glasswork supports the two pillars the elephants had mounted.
The third courtyard of Amber Fortress surrounds the Royal Quarters. Entry to this level is through Ganesh Poll. The ‘Sheesh Mahal’ is the most beautiful attraction in the complex and is left at the entrance.
There are beautiful flowers and glass paintings on the walls and ceilings. Sheesh, mahal gives beautiful illusions, and you can hear people discussing that if you light two candles inside the hall, the roofs feel like a thousand twinkling stars.
‘Sukh Mahal’ is another hall opposite the Sheesh Mahal, made of sandalwood and ivory. It has several channels through which cold water flows.
Another highlight of Amber Fort is the ‘Magic Flower’, a fresco carved in marble and a delicate carving of Ganesha from a piece of coral.
To the south of the complex are the oldest part and the main palace used by Man Singh I. The exit from the main palace leads directly to the city of Amer.
It had built the last level of Amer Fortress for the royal ladies. A courtyard surrounds it with several rooms. A hall called Jas Mandir was formerly used for private spectators.
Amer Fort Light and Sound Show
A fifty-minute-long light and sound show is held every evening at Amer Fort, showcasing the history of Jaipur and the fort.
It aims to revive the state’s rich history, tradition, and culture. The exhibition celebrates local legends, folklore, and folk music. Photography, video, or audio recordings of the performance are prohibited.
Light and Sound Show fee: INR 295
Duration: 52 minutes.
Timings:
October to Feb -6:30 PM (English) and 7:30 PM (Hindi)
March to April: 7:00 PM (English) and 8:00 PM (Hindi)
May to Sep – 7:30 PM (English) and 8:30 PM (Hindi)
Tips to Visit Amer Fort
- Hire a guide for in-depth knowledge of the fort’s past.
- You can also find some entertainers, singers, and snake ministers around the castle.
- It is advisable to arrive early to enjoy the best of the castle’s beauty.
Entry Fee
Foreigners – INR 550 per person
Foreign Students – INR 100 per person
Indians – INR 50 per person
Indian Students – INR 10 per person
Timings: 8 AM to 7 PM
The best time to visit
To enjoy the awe-inspiring Amer Fort, have at least 3 hours on hand. It is best to visit this fort at 4 PM, even if the sun is not directly overhead, when there is enough light to explore.
After exploring the castle, climb up for a breathtaking view of the beautiful sunset. You can bite to eat while waiting for the light and sound show to start.
Attractions near Amber Fort
- Panna Meena ka Kund ( 1.3 km)
- Jagat Shiromani Temple (1.7 km)
- Jal Mahal (3.8 km)
- Jaighar Fort (6.9 km)
- Nahargarh Fort (10.6 km)
How to Reach?
Nearest bus stop:
The nearest bus stop to Amer Fort is Amer Fort. It is only 1 km away.
Nearest railway station:
Jaipur Junction is the nearest railway head to Amber Fort. It is 12.2 km away.
Nearest airport:
Jaipur International Airport is the nearest airport to Amber Fort. It is 19.6 km away. The distance between Jaipur and Amer Fort is 12.9 km.
Address
Devisinghpura, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302001
FAQs:
Why is Fort Amer famous?
Amer Castle is famous for its artistic style elements. With its large ramparts and a series of gates and stone-built paths, the fort overlooks Lake Mawota, the main water source for Amer Palace.
Is Amer Fort Worth Visiting?
Yes, please note that this castle is only open until 5 PM. If you want to see the fort from the inside, you must arrive in advance and spend 2-3 hours seeing the whole place. It is steep above the fort.
Is it Amer Fort or Amber Fort?
It has two names, Amer Fort and Amber Fort.
When was Amer Fort built?
Rulers started the construction of Amber Fort in 1592. Several rulers modified it regularly, and the trend continued until late 1600.
How many steps, Amber Fort?
Amer Fort is at the foot, so there is no circuit drive. There is a good amount of parking. There are two stairs, and both have about 500+ stairs.
How long does it take to climb Amer fort?
It will take you more than 3 hours to explore this magnificent fort.