"Amber Fort – Echoes of Royalty and Valor"

 Amber Palace aka Amber Fort was constructed in 1592 AD by Raja Man Singh, the Rajput commander of Akbar's army. Later it was expanded and renovated by Raja Jai Sigh I. Situated at a distance of 11 km from the city, it carries the pride of Jaipur.

Set amidst the hills and overlooking the Maota Lake, Amer Palace is the finest example of Indo-Islamic architecture. Within the vicinity of the Amber fort there are 4 courtyards. There are various other buildings within these courtyards i.e., Palace of Man Singh I, Garden, Tripolia gate, Lion gate, Diwan-I-Aam, Sheesh Mahal, Sukh Mahal, etc. Jaipur trip is incomplete without visiting the light show at this grand fort.

History of Amber Fort

Amber Fort, also spelled Amer Fort, is one of the most magnificent forts in India and a shining jewel of Rajput architecture. Located about 11 kilometers from Jaipur in Rajasthan, the fort sits majestically atop a hill, overlooking the Maota Lake. Its history is deeply entwined with the legacy of the Kachhwaha Rajput rulers, who made Amber their capital long before Jaipur was founded.

The history of Amber Fort dates back to the late 16th century, although the original structure existed even earlier. The fort we see today was primarily built by Raja Man Singh I, one of Emperor Akbar’s most trusted generals, around 1592 AD. Raja Man Singh chose this location strategically for its natural defense advantages and its proximity to trade routes. He laid the foundation of a fort that would not only serve as a military stronghold but also as a lavish royal residence.

After Raja Man Singh, successive rulers continued to enhance and expand the fort. Notably, Raja Jai Singh I and Mirza Raja Jai Singh II made significant additions, incorporating elements of Mughal architecture to match the grandeur of the imperial courts. The blend of Hindu and Mughal styles is evident in the fort's ornate gateways, intricately carved pillars, mirrored halls, and sprawling courtyards.

One of the most famous structures within the fort is the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), an exquisite hall covered with thousands of tiny mirror tiles. According to legend, even a single ray of light could illuminate the entire hall due to the reflective design. Another highlight is the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) and Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience) where the rulers would meet their subjects and dignitaries.

The fort complex also includes the Ganesh Pol, an ornate gate with beautiful frescoes, and the Sukh Niwas, which was designed to stay cool during Rajasthan's harsh summers using water channels and wind flow techniques — an early example of climate-responsive architecture.

Amber remained the capital of the Kachhwaha Rajputs until 1727, when Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II founded the new capital city of Jaipur. Even after the shift of political power, Amber Fort continued to hold immense cultural and historical significance.

Amber fort by car and drive:

Amber Fort (also spelled Amer Fort) is located about 11 kilometers (approximately 7 miles) from the center of Jaipur, Rajasthan. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area, and getting there by car is easy and convenient.