Jaipur Forts and Palaces

Jaipur, “the Pink City Of India”, is an ideal reservoir of architectural wonders of yesteryears. Embracing the rich legacy of Rajputana empire, Jaipur boasts some of the most outstanding monuments within its territory.

Thanks to these architectural treasures of the city, Jaipur is counted among one of the most popular tourist destinations of India. These remnants of bygone era beckons large number of tourists every year. Jaipur has endless arrays of forts and palaces which are created by some of the avant-garde and extravagant rulers of the Rajputana dynasty. Globetrotters from various corners of the world comes here to behold the artistic skill of these unmatched monuments.

Some of the famous monuments of Jaipur are as follows:
Monuments Within Jaipur:
City Palace Complex: City palace is a complex of courtyards, gardens and buildings. Located at the centre of old city, City Palace complex is a striking landmark of Jaipur. The

outer wall of this beautiful monument was  built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh during his reign but within it the palace has been enlarged and adapted by the succeeding rulers over the centuries. It includes Mubarak Mahal, Rajendra Pol, Diwan-i-khas, Diwan-i-aam, the Armoury, Pitam Niwas, Chandra Mahal, and Govind Devji Temple etc.

Hawa Mahal: Hawa Mahal or 'Palace of Winds' is another important tourist spot of Jaipur city. This honey-combed structure palace was built by Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799 A.D to enable the ladies of royal court to view the colorful processions of the old city. Hawa Mahal is positioned nearby to City Palace Complex and provides a panoramic glimpse of the entire city.

Jantar Mantar: Jantar Mantar is a huge astronomical observatory, which was created by Maharajah Sawai Jai Singh, an avant-garde ruler of Rajputana dynasty. It is counted as a world's largest stone observatory and houses some massive astronomical devices which are used in measuring the positions of the stars, altitude, and azimuth and calculating eclipses.

Jal Mahal: It is an 18th century pleasure palace, built amidst Mansagar Lake in Jaipur. This palace is well known for its unique designs and grand architecture. The first four floors of this building is under water, only the top floor remains outside. During the bygone royal era, this palace was used as royal duck shooting parties. The lake also serves as feeding ground for numerous migratory and residential birds.

Statue Circle: Statue Circle is another major landmark of the city. It is located on a busy crossing and got its name from the statue of Maharajah Sawai Jai Singh, the founder of Jaipur city.

Monuments Nearby To Jaipur:
Amber Fort: Situated just 11 km from Jaipur, Amber Fort is one of the formidable forts of Rajasthan state. Amber fort serves as the power seat of Kachhwaha clan, till Jaipur was established as official capital in 1727. All built in white marble and red sand-stone, Amber Fort is a stunning fort. Azure water of Maotha Lake makes the foreground of Amber Fort.

Jaigarh Fort: Jaigarh Fort or Victory Fort is located on the top of the hill, Cheel ka Teela (Hill of Eagles), at a distance of 15 km from Jaipur. Considered as one of the spectacular forts in India, Jaigarh Fort is another important excursion site near Jaipur.

Nahargarh Fort:  Stands atop a rugged point of the Aravallis mountain ranges, Nahargarh Fort is the first of three forts built by Maharajah Jai Singh of Jaipur. Due to its positions, Nahargarh Fort was used to support the security of Amer.

Gaitore: Gaitore is a royal cremation site of Rajputana rulers of Jaipur. This site is located on the Jaipur-Amber Road, about 15 km from the city. This place has cenotaph for each Maharaja which are created to honor them. These are commonly known as 'Chhatris'.