Steeped in history, with stories of rulers and kings, stand the magnificent forts of Rajasthan. These glorious forts depict the glorious past with eclectic architecture and grand palatial grounds. If the walls of these forts would speak they would speak of stories of bravery, sacrifice pride, and romance and though the great rulers of these forts have been long gone their legacy still lives on. The famous forts of Rajasthan retain their old glory and exquisite architecture and transport you back to the bygone eras. A visit to these exquisite forts will be an experience of a lifetime.
Here is a list of forts that you must visit on your trip to Rajasthan.
Amer Fort, Jaipur
Located on the Aravali highlands and offering its visitors magnificent views of the Maota Lake is Amer Fort. Built back in the 16th century by Raja Man Singh the fort displays the Mughal style of architecture created using the red sandstone and marble doubles giving it a grand look and also making it one of the best forts in Rajasthan. The architectural marvel of the palace can be observed by looking at its four-level layout, Diwan-i-Khas, Diwan-i-Aam, Sheesh Mahal, and Sukh Niwas, with each of them having a courtyard. Amber Fort arrests the mind of millions of travellers from all over the world and the major tourist attraction remains the light and sound show that is held at Kesar Kyari inside Amber Fort every evening.
Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer
This majestic fort located on top of the Trikuta Hill is the second oldest fort in Rajasthan. Perched on a hill this exquisite fort reflects the golden hues of the city making it one of the most popular forts in the city. Constructed back in 1156 AD by King Rawal Jaisal, the fort is also one of the largest forts in the country. On your visit to Jaisalmer, make sure to step out in the evening the golden lights that deck up the fort is a remarkable sight. This fort is aptly named Sonar Quilla.
Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur
Nestled in the Blue City of Jodhpur, Mehrangarh is a must-visit fort in Rajasthan. Commissioned by Rao Jodha back in 1460, the fort comes with very extensive highlights from the history books, including its movie affiliations. Movies such as Awarapan and The Dark Knight Rises have both had sequences shot here. One of the important historical sites in India which has witnessed several battles against the Jaipur and Bikaner armies this fort continues to stand strong and sparks wonder from all its visitors.
Ranthambore Fort, Ranthambore National Park
Cuddled by the warmth of the wilderness, the Ranthambore Fort is easily one of the popular forts in Rajasthan. Built-in the 10th century by Nagil Jats who were the oldest royals of Rajasthan, this magnificent fort is in perfect shape to this day. This fort has been subjected to many attacks from Mughals and Britishers but none of them managed to destroy or conquer it. Ranthambore Fort is a part of the Ranthambore National Park, which is home to several endangered animals and birds including the Royal Bengal Tiger. Carry your cameras to capture the best shots of the national park from a bird’s eye view.
Chittorgarh Fort, Chittorgarh
Sprawled across 700 acres with impressive architecture is the Chittorgarh Fort. Built in the 7th century this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to many romantic tales of Rajasthan. The fort has been attacked and even destroyed thrice during the reign of Allauddin Khilji, Maharana Udai Singh, and Bahadur Shah as rulers. The largest fort in India, Chittorgarh Fort is popular for its architecture, ramparts, and ramifications that represent the quintessence of rulers and their patriotism, courage, and chivalry. The structure has been one of the pivotal backdrops of several painters, writers, and poets who have drawn imagination through the series of activities that the fort had seen over time.
Taragarh Fort, Bundi
Also known as the Star Fort of India, this impressive structure is known for its stunning architecture. Located in Ajmer, Taragarh Fort comes with some intriguing history as it served as a center for military activities back in the Mughal era. The impressive gateways of its fort were known for housing the crisscrossing tunnels on the hillside which are now an adventure area for history lovers and travellers. The fort comprises huge water reservoirs, a small palace with some marvellous murals and stained glass, and a tomb that is known as “Miran Saheb Ki Dargah”.
Junagarh Fort, Bikaner
With the eclectic Rajasthani architecture that can be witnessed throughout the property, this heritage fort does bring a sense of culture and tradition to itself. Many rulers have apparently lost their hearts to the beauty of the Junagarh Fort. This palace is the pride of Bikaner and is the main tourist attraction of the city and the city has been built around this palace. Junagarh Fort is lauded all over the country for its marvellous architecture. The fort resonates with an aura of royalty that can be felt by its visitors. It is the perfect place to visit if one wants to experience the culture of Bikaner.
Kumbhalgarh Fort, Udaipur
The birthplace of Indian hero, Maharana Pratap, Kumbhalgarh is the Fort known for being one of the most important Rajasthan Palaces and Forts after the Fort of Chittorgarh. Constructed by Maharana Kumbha back in the 15th century, the fort in Rajasthan is also named after the ruler. It has the second-longest wall in the world following the Great Wall of China and covers an area of 36 km sq. Open to the public, the fort is known for its beautiful light show which is lit for a while every evening. What adds to this fort’s beauty are the dunes of the Thar desert.
There are various breathtaking forts in Rajasthan that you must visit. They all provide picturesque views and make a stunning backdrop for some memorable pictures. So take a trip and enjoy the bygone eras of the glorious city of Rajasthan and take in its culture and heritage which indeed make a remarkable journey that will be etched in your mind for years to come.
Also Read: 15 Most Stunning And Majestic Forts In India
