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Amber Fort, Jaipur

Amber Fort, also written Amer, rises on a hill above Maota lake about 11 km north of Jaipur's old city. It was the seat of the Kachhwaha rulers before they moved to Jaipur, and its sandstone and marble palaces are among the most visited sights in Rajasthan. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage listing of the Hill Forts of Rajasthan.

Amber Fort Jaipur
Timings
About 8 am–5:30 pm daily
Distance from airport
About 21 km
Distance from Jaipur Junction
About 12 km
UNESCO status
Part of the Hill Forts of Rajasthan

History

Raja Man Singh I began the present fort-palace in the late sixteenth century, and later rulers, especially Mirza Raja Jai Singh I, added to it over the following decades. The complex combines Rajput design with Mughal touches, reflecting the close ties between the Kachhwahas and the Mughal court.

What to see

The palace is laid out around four main courtyards. Highlights include the Diwan-i-Aam, the hall of public audience with its rows of columns; the Ganesh Pol, a painted gateway; and the Sheesh Mahal, whose walls and ceiling are inlaid with mirror work that glitters in lamplight. Gardens, private apartments and terraces give views over the lake and the surrounding hills.

In the evening, a sound and light show tells the story of the fort in English and Hindi. The English show typically starts around 6:30 pm in winter and later in summer, with the Hindi show after it; check the current schedule when you arrive.

Timings and tips

Gates open around 8 in the morning and close at about 5:30 in the evening, every day. Come early to beat the heat and the crowds. You can walk up the ramp and steps from the road, or take a jeep to the upper gate. Wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and consider hiring an approved guide or an audio guide; the fort makes much more sense with its stories. There is a restaurant inside the complex serving Rajasthani food.

How to reach

Jaipur International Airport is about 21 km away and Jaipur Junction railway station about 12 km. Taxis, autos and city buses run from central Jaipur to Amer. Many visitors combine the fort with Jaigarh Fort above it and a stop at the Jal Mahal on the way back.

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