Rajasthan is one of the most colourful states in India. The state is a treasure of history, heritage and also known for its vibrant culture along with its historical monuments. There are many palaces and forts in Rajasthan built by the different ruler. Even today these historical monuments speak the glorious past of Rajasthan and leaving standards of ancient Kings.
Further, the architectural style of all these forts is truly magnificent that soothes your eyes. By exploring all these tourist sites in Rajasthan, it feels like you are in another world or a different century. Rajasthan is the largest state in India and divided into the variable region, which was ruled by the various ruler. Each of the rulers built forts and palaces in Rajasthan during their time to protect the city and to leave a luxury life. Most of the Forts & Palaces now converted into a heritage hotel. Now check below-mention some famous hill forts in Rajasthan and explore the true glory of this beautiful state.
1- Amber Fort, Jaipur
Located at a distance of 11 km from the main city of Jaipur, Amber or Amer Fort is among one of the best forts in Rajasthan. Situated on a hillock by overlooking the Maota Lake, the fort is very famous for its architecture intelligence and surrounding natural beauty. The fort originally built by Raja Man Singh in the 16th century and later expanded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II.
Made up of red sandstone and marble, it is a perfect blend of Rajput and Mughal style of architecture. Some of the famous key attraction here like Diwan-I-Am, Diwan-I-Khas, Sukh Niwas, Sheesh Mahal and Kesar Kyari. Further, it is also recognised as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Not only in Jaipur, but Amer Fort is also one of the best tourist places to visit in Rajasthan.
Entry Fees & Visiting Hours – Rs.100 for Indians & Rs.500 for Foreigners (8 AM to 6 PM Everyday)
2- Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer Fort is one of the largest and oldest forts in Rajasthan, which is built around 1156 AD by King Rawal Jaisal. Located on the Trikuta Hill, it offers the stunning view of sand dunes of Thar Desert. Built up with yellow sandstone it appears to be complimenting the golden stretches of sands in the Thar Desert, so also known as the Sonar Quila or Golden Fort.
The Fort wall is 3 tiered and has 99 bastions along with two large cannon points. Further, the fort also listed as World Heritage Site by UNESCO due to its historical significance. Inside the Fort Premises, Raj Mahal, Royal Palace, Lakshminath Temple, Jain Temple and Fort Palace Museum are some major tourist attraction that you have to visit. Moreover, one can also take the stunning view of Jaisalmer City from the top point of the Fort. Apart From these things, it is an ideal destination to capture Sunset view that is truly admirable. So the place must be added to the list of palaces & hill forts to visit in Rajasthan.
Entry Fees & Visiting Hours – No entry Fees -Rs.50 for Camera & Rs.100 for Video (9 AM to 6 PM Everyday)
3- Chittorgarh Fort, Chittorgarh
Constructed around 7th century AD by the Mauryan rulers, the Chittorgarh Fort still tell us the stories of valour, courage and sacrifice. Spread an area of 695 acres, it is considered as one of the largest forts in India. There is much ancient courage story related to this place when the ruler of this fort sacrifice their life in spite of facing dishonour and surrendering themselves.
Further, it is also known as Water Fort as there were 84 water bodies in the ancient time, but now 22 water bodies still in existence. These beautiful water bodies give it a glorious look and make the surrounding more pleasant and scenic. Some of the major highlight or key attraction here are Kirti Stambha, Vijay Stambha, Padmini’s Palace, Gaumukh Reservoir, Fateh Prakash Palace, Rana Kumbha Palace and Meera Temple. So if you want to reminiscent of the rich culture of Rajasthan, then it will be a perfect choice for you and must be on the list of hill forts in Rajasthan.
Entry Fees & Visiting Hours – Rs.10 for Indians & Rs.100 for Foreigners (9:30 AM to 5:30 PM)
4- Jaigarh Fort, Jaipur
Also known as ‘Victory Fort of Rajasthan’, Jaigarh Fort is another major forts in Rajasthan that has high historical significance. Located on a hilltop Cheel Ka Teela, the fort was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II with a motive to guard the city of Amer. There are four courtyards inside the fort complex namely Laxmi Vilas, Lalit Mandir, Vilas Mandir and Aram Mandir. Further, the world largest cannon on wheels known as the Jaivana Cannon also found here, which is the prime tourist attraction to visit in Jaigarh Fort. There is also a museum that has a collection of rare artefacts and paintings of royal families of the Rajput ruler. Moreover, one can also take the breathtaking view of Jaipur city from the fort premises.
Entry Fees & Visiting Hours – Rs.70 for Indians & Rs.150 Foreigners (9 AM to 4:30 PM)
5- Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur
Founded by Rathore Ruler, Rao Jodha in 1459 AD, Mehrangarh Fort is still remaining one of the best heritage sites to visit in Jodhpur. The fort was famous for its architectural intelligence as it was designed in such a way that protects the army and kings from the attack. Located at an altitude of 400 feet above sea level, the fort was covered by thick walls and you can also find different palaces and courtyards in the fort complex.
Further, the magnificent fort also featured in many movies like The Dark Knight Rises and Awarapan. Some of the famous palaces inside this fort are Moti Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Phool Mahal, Daulat Khana and Sileh Khana. Apart from that, the fort also houses a museum that has a vast collection of weaponry, palanquins, cradles, musical instruments, furniture, paintings and costumes belongs to Rathore and Mughal rulers.
Entry Fees & Visiting Hours – Rs.100 for Indians & Rs.600 for Foreigners (9 AM to 5 PM)
6- Jal Mahal Palace, Jaipur
Located in the mid of beautiful Man Sagar Lake, Jal Mahal Palace is the finest example of Rajput and Mughal style of architecture. Built by Maharaja Jai Singh II around 1750 AD as a summer retreat. It is a five-storied palace made up of red sandstone and out of which four remains underwater when the lake is full. Surrounded by the lush greenery and tropical forest, it is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. The picturesque palace is an ideal spot for the picnic and to enjoy sightseeing in Jaipur. Further, one can also spot rare species of migratory birds here during the winter season. So no doubt Jal Mahal is one of the best places to visit in Rajasthan and should not to be avoided.
Entry Fees & Visiting Hours – Not entry fees (6 AM to 10 PM Everyday)
7- Lake Palace, Udaipur
Lake Palace is a true jewel of Udaipur city and among one of the top palaces to visit in Rajasthan. Built during 1743-1746 by Maharana Jagat Singh II as a summer retreat, the palace originally known as Jagniwas. Located in the Lake Pichola, the palace spread an area of four acres. In 1971, the palace was taken over by the Taj Group of Hotels, Palaces and Resorts. They converted into a luxury resort with all modern facility that gives a very comfortable stay to its guest. At present, there are around 83 well-designed rooms that offer luxurious accommodation to its all guest.
8- Deeg Palace, Bharatpur
Built by a Jat ruler, Deeg Palace was a luxurious summer resort used by the different ruler of Bharatpur dynasty. The palace is a perfect blend of a typically Mughal style of architecture. Further, the design and layout of Deeg Palace garden inspired by the Mughal Charbagh. Undoubtedly, Deeg Palace is also one of the best palaces to visit in Rajasthan that you can’t miss at any instant. So overall a worth visiting tourist spots in Bharatpur and one of the famous palace & Monuments in Rajasthan.
So these are some heritage palaces and hill forts in Rajasthan that shows the rich past and culture of this beautiful state. As you all know Rajasthan is a land of forts, palaces, havelis and museum. So without exploring these historical forts and palaces in Rajasthan, it feels like you did not do anything on your Rajasthan holiday trip.
