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Amer Fort also known as Amber Fort is a majestic historical monument located in the Pink City of Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. Built with red sandstone and marble, this architectural marvel represents the rich cultural heritage and regal grandeur of the Rajput era. Amer Fort history is widely popular in the adjacent regions of Rajasthan, echoing the heritage the fort holds. Let’s embark on a journey back in time and explore Amer Fort history, with some features, interesting facts and more.
Table of Contents
| Commissioned by | Raja Man Singh |
| Also Known as | Amber Fort or Amer Kila |
| Location | Jaipur, Rajasthan, India |
| Timings | 8 am to 7 pm; Everyday |
| Entry Fee for fort | ₹ 50 per person for Indians; ₹ 550 per person for Foreigners (Changes Applicable)₹ 10 per person for Indian students; ₹ 100 per person for Foreign Students (Changes Applicable) |
| Status | UNESCO World Heritage Site |
History of Amer Fort
The Amber settlement was established by the ruler Raja Alan Singh of the Chanda clan of Meenas in the year 967 CE. In the late 16th century, Raja Man Singh I, a trusted general of Emperor Akbar, further laid the foundation of Amer Fort from the remains.
- Under the patronage of the Kachwaha Rajput dynasty, the construction started in 1592 and took over a century to complete.
- The fort was originally known as “Amber Fort,” named after the goddess Amba, the patron deity of the Rajput clans.
- Amer Fort was completed by Raja Man Singh I in the late 16th century. Initially, it served as the residence of the ruling Rajput Maharajas and their families.
- The fort was later expanded and renovated by Raja Jai Singh I and Raja Jai Singh II, adding new palaces, temples and intricate artistry.
- With its strategic location atop the Aravalli hills, Amer Fort served as a fortified defence against invasions from rival kingdoms.
- The fort also acted as a ceremonial and administrative centre during the reign of the Kachwaha dynasty.
Also Read – Bhangarh Fort History: Features, Facts, Timings & More
Features of Amer Fort
Amer Fort showcases an exquisite blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. Constructed primarily with red sandstone and marble, this fortress spans four levels, each with distinct features and attractions. Some other features of the fort include –
| Features | Description |
| Suraj Pol (Sun Gate) | The main entrance to Amer Fort, Suraj Pol, greets visitors with its grandeur. |
| It is adorned with intricate frescoes and features double doorways to prevent war elephants from breaking through. | |
| Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) | This grand hall for public meetings |
| The walls are studded with intricate glasswork, depicting floral motifs, mythological scenes and intricate designs, reflecting even the tiniest ray of light. | |
| Diwan-E-Khas (The Hall of Private Audience) | This grand hall was for the meetings of the ruling Maharajas. |
| The hall is adorned with beautifully painted frescoes, depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and the royal court. | |
| Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) | The walls are studded with intricate glasswork, depicting floral motifs, mythological scene and intricate designs, reflecting even the tiniest ray of light. |
| This chamber was the private space of the royal family, offering a celestial experience. | |
| Ganesh Pol (The Gate of Ganesha) | The Ganesh Pol, a beautifully decorated gate, the entry gate to the private chambers of the royal women, known as the Zanana Dyodi (Ladies’ apartments) |
| The gate features delicate floral patterns. The gate symbolizes the importance of Ganesha as the remover of obstacles and is considered auspicious. | |
| Sukh Niwas (The Hall of Pleasure) | Sukh Niwas is a well-ventilated hall designed to provide a cool breeze during the scorching summers in Rajasthan. |
| It has a unique water cooling system known as the “Khuskhas,” which keeps the temperature inside considerably lower. |
Some other attractions inside Amer Fort are – Jaleb Chowk, Yash Mandir, Suhag Mandir, Shila Devi Temple, Baradari, Jai Mandir and a Bhool Bhulaiya (Maze).
Also Read – Golconda Fort History: Feature, Timings, Facts & More
7 Fun Facts About Amer Fort
- Amer fort was strategically built on a hilltop to offer a commanding view and its grandeur is reflected in the Maota Lake.
- It is a belief that the fort has a Stone (Lingam) that will mark the end of the Amer settlement.
- The fort is connected to Jaigarh Fort through an underground passage of 2 km, providing an escape route during times of siege.
- There are four main sections of the fort which include their own courtyards.
- With only one candle the whole of Sheesh Mahal can be illuminated and is witnessed in many Bollywood films.
- An Elephant ride up to the fort entrance adds to the sense of adventure and excitement for visitors.
- Amer Fort was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013.
Timings and Entry Fee of Amer Fort
Another attraction is the accredited light and sound show near the Kesar Kyari on Maota Lake, shown at the foothills of the fort. The timings for visiting the Monument and watching the mesmerising light and sound shows are –
| Purpose | Timings |
| Entry | 8 am to 7 pm |
| Week Entry | Everyday |
| Light and Sound Show | For Hindi Shows – 8.30 PM (changes applicable) |
| For English Shows – 7:30 PM (changes applicable) | |
| Duration of the Show | 50 minutes (twice a day) |
Entry Fee
| Citizens | Fee |
| Indian Citizens | INR 50 per person (changes applicable) |
| Indian Students | INR 10 per person (changes applicable) |
| Foreigners | INR 550 per person (changes applicable) |
| Foreign Students | INR 100 per person (changes applicable) |
| Video and Still Cameras are allowed | |
Other Attractions near Amer Fort
| Panna Meena ka Kund (1.3 km) | Jal Mahal (3.8 km) |
| Jagat Shiromani Temple (1.7 km) | Jaigarh Fort (6.9 km) |
| Nahargarh Fort (10.6 km) | Albert Hall |
| City Palace of Jaipur | Hawa Mahal |
| Jantar Mantar | Moti Dungri Temple |
| Vidhyadhar Garden | Birla Mandir |
| Turban Museum | Govind Dev ji Temple |
Many Bollywood films like Mughal-e-Azam, Jodhaa-Akbar, Bajirao Mastani, etc were filmed in the fort displaying its magnificent and majestic architecture. Each corner of this majestic fort has a story to tell, offering a glimpse into the glorious past of Rajasthan.
Relevant Blogs
That’s all about Amer Fort history! If you want to know more about topics like this, then visit our general knowledge page! Alternatively, you can also read our blog on general knowledge for competitive exams!