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Discovering Amber Fort: The Pride of Jaipur

Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is a city steeped in tales of courage, valor, and the legacy of Rajput rulers. Also known as the Pink City, Jaipur is a perfect blend of history and modernity, with contemporary schools and houses sitting side by side with centuries-old palaces and forts.

One of its crown jewels is the majestic Amber Fort (also spelled Amer Fort), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a prime example of Rajasthan’s rich architectural and historical heritage. This guide covers the fort’s history, architectural wonders, ticket details, and everything you need to know before your visit.

A Glimpse Into Jaipur’s History

Jaipur was founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II and was named after him. The city was India’s first planned city, laid out according to the ancient architectural manual known as the Shilpa Shastra. The design was crafted by Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, a Bengali architect, and followed traditional Rajput styles. Like much of Jaipur, Amber Fort was built using locally sourced sandstone, giving it a signature warm hue.

Nestled among hills on three sides, Jaipur was an ideal location for the Rajput capital. The Kachhwaha Rajputs, who ruled the region, had formed an alliance with the Mughals—united in opposition to the Sisodia Rajputs.

The History of Amber Fort

Amber Fort began construction in 1558 under Raja Bharmal and Raja Man Singh I and was completed around 1727 under Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. Before Amber became the royal residence, Jaigarh Fort served this purpose. The two forts are connected by a secret passage, often seen as part of a single defensive complex. While Amber Fort was the main palace, Jaigarh Fort served as a secure refuge during wartime.

Amber was originally known as Dhundar and ruled by the Meena tribe before being taken over by the Kachhwahas in the 1600s. Folklore tells of Dhola Rae, a young prince adopted by Raja Alan Singh. On a Diwali night, he launched a surprise attack on the Meenas, securing the fort for the Kachhwahas.

The name “Amber” is believed to come either from “Ambikeshwar” (a name of Lord Shiva), “Ambavati” (a goddess in Jain texts), or “Amba” (a form of the universal mother goddess).

Amber Fort Ticket Prices

Visitor TypePriceIndian Citizen₹25Indian Student₹10Foreign Tourist₹550Foreign Student₹100Light Show (English)₹100Couple Elephant Ride₹200

Amber Fort Timings

The fort is open every day of the week:

8:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Things to Do at Amber Fort

Amber Fort offers both day and night experiences. During the day, you can enjoy an elephant ride up to the main gate, just like the royals did. At night, the fort lights up in golden hues, creating a magical view worth the higher night tour price.

Guided tours are available and bring the fort’s rich history to life through fascinating stories and architectural insights. Visitors can either walk up or ride an elephant to the entrance.

Architectural Highlights

Amber Fort combines Hindu and Mughal architectural influences, built with red sandstone and white marble. Many of its carvings depict scenes from the Ramayana and the life of Lord Krishna, alongside intricate Mughal floral patterns.

The fort has four main courtyards, each serving a distinct purpose:

1. First Courtyard

  • Suraj Pol (Sun Gate): Faces east to capture the sunrise.

  • Jaleb Chowk: A parade ground for returning soldiers.

  • Sila Devi Temple: Houses a goddess idol gifted to Raja Man Singh after a Bengal victory. It was once the site of Navratri animal sacrifices, now banned.

  • Suhag Mandir: A prayer space for royal women.

2. Second Courtyard

  • Diwan-e-Am (Hall of Public Audience): Where rulers heard public grievances.

  • Diwan-e-Khas (Hall of Private Audience): For state matters like taxation and military strategy.

  • Jai Mandir: Decorated with glass mosaics and Mughal-style detailing.

3. Third Courtyard

  • Ganesh Pol: A gateway to royal residences, adorned with beautiful mosaics.

  • Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace): A hall of mirrors where even a few candles can illuminate the space.

  • Sukh Mahal: Features a sandalwood door and built-in cooling water channels from Maotha Lake.

  • Magic Flower Panel: An optical illusion only visible when part of the carving is hidden.

  • Raja Man Singh I’s Palace: The oldest structure in the fort, built between 1574 and 1599.

4. Fourth Courtyard

  • Tripolia Gate & Zanana Dyodhi: Private quarters for the royal women. Designed for privacy, no one could tell whom the king visited.

The fort showcases chhatris (domed pavilions), jharokhas (overhanging balconies), jalis (lattice screens), and gardens in the Chahar Bagh style, all symbolizing power, leisure, and artistry.

Amer Fort’s Strategic Design

Built with intelligence and foresight, Amer Fort is classified as a Giri Durg (hill fort) under the Prather Giri Durg type — the most secure kind of hilltop fort.

Key Defensive and Architectural Features:

  • Moats and Lakes: Maotha and Sagar Lakes served as both water sources and deterrents to invaders.

  • Fortified Walls: Offered shelter and protection during attacks.

  • Escape Routes: Secret passages led to Jaigarh Fort, ensuring royal safety.

  • Leisure Structures: Chhatris, jalis, and terraces provided stunning views and relaxation for royalty.

Light and Sound Show

A special attraction in the evening is the Light & Sound Show, which takes place in a designated viewing area with a full view of the fort. The show blends narration, lighting, and music to tell local legends, myths, and historical events. Stories of brave kings, fierce battles, and Rajput pride come alive under the stars.

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