The Humongous Forts of Jaipur.

Jaipur- the pink city or the royal city is a place one should visit to experience the feeling of being a royal. The awe striking level of detailed architecture and the flawless beauty of each and every part of these former homes of Rajput rulers prove how grand their lives were.

Jaipur city has 3 prominent forts: Amer or Amber fort, Nargarh fort and Jaigarh fort; each equally astonishing and pleasant to the eyes.

Amer Fort:

While you are in Jaipur, hire a personal vehicle or get a bus to reach. Amer fort is situated in the small place known as Amer, few kilometres away from main Jaipur city. The way to this fort is gorgeous in itself, one is left anxious how much more beauty is coming their way. The standard of luxurious lifestyle is well at display with this fort constructed by Raja Man Singh. It is built on a high hill and to reach the inside of the fort one has to cross a beautiful garden which has a splendid view of Moata Lake and then climb numerous stairs. On your way up you will encounter sweets sellers, locals offering “pagdi” for photographs and puppet shows.

The fort has a sacred temple situated at the front door, of Goddess Sil devi in its front courtyard. This temple is renowned and devotees from all over the state come here to pray.

This second part of the fort leads to seesh mahal (the mirror palace). Mirror palace is a building studded with small mirrors all over the ceiling and walls, the artistry is breath taking. It also has a Mughal style designed garden in the middle of the second courtyard.

The other two parts are the private corners where Raja and his Rani or mistresses used to reside. This part of the fort is quite alluring and thrilling as well. As you pass the intricate corners of the palace, you can feel a vibe or two of the times and lives of the Royal family.

Jaigarh Fort:

Located on the Aravelli hills as well this Fort was built by Jai Singh in 1726. The construction of this fort is in a way that is protected Amer Fort in the past. This place runs in North- South direction has the best view of Amer fort to offer.

A small forest is built behind the middle open space of the fort which was a shooting place for the Rajputs. The whole complex has been built to offer the best shot possible at animals strolling around in the forest. If you look in the direction of the villages nearby, they all present a unique picturesque from the high ends of the Jaigarh Fort.

The central attraction of this site is world’s largest canon (at the time it was built); Jaivana canyon. It is said that this artillery was used only once and the place it exploded is still barren and the off springs of the natives are born handicapped (according to the locals).

Nahargarh Fort:

If you want a complete and magnificient view of the city of Jaipur, look down from the corners of Nahargarh Fort which is built at the boundary of the Aravelli hills. This fort was basically a place where the Royals came for some peace and calm. It is divided into four parts and 2 storeys. Every wall and corner of the fort is a work of detail Jaipuri art.

One of the three forts situated in the Jaipur city, it spells royality, beauty and luxury altogether. It was built by Maharaja Sawai Man Jai Singh. However, later it was expanded by Sawai Ram Singh in 1868. The roof terrace of the fort provides an alluring view of the entire compound. This fort built with effects from Indian and British architecture along with the temple is situated at the front gate of the fort which is dedicated to Nahar singh whose spirit is known to haunt the place before the temple was built.

Things to take care when you visit the forts:

1. Try to visit Amer Fort first and have time on your hand because each and every fort has a lot to offer. If you are less on time, it would be a complete waste to visit these magnificent places.

2. Both the Jaigarh and Nargarh Forts are nearby and must be visited simultaneously, one after another.

3. When you enter Jaigarh Fort, there is a small charge of INR 50 for taking pictures of the Canon and surroundings, so don't hesitate to pay.

4. While you travel to Jaigarh/Nargarh Fort, take time to stop in between and click some pictures on the way as the scenery is quite beautiful.

5. There is a museum in the Jaigarh Fort, try visiting it.

6. Try to book a personal vehicle, so that you can have freedom to enjoy all you want, rather than doing everything in a hurried manner by booking a tourist bus.

7. Book a guide and try to negotiate on the price, they tell a lot of things which Google will never tell you.( Or maybe talk to the guards at these forts, they also tell the same stuff at lower price)

8. Click Pictures, A lot.

9. Enjoy every moment while you are there.

These three forts used to protect Jaipur city once and since the royal reign has ended, they have been a heritage of the city representing its rich royal traditions. So visit and enjoy you trip.