Rajasthan Forts and Palaces: A Symbol of India's Enormity and Glory

This article is continuation of our first one (Mesmerizing the grandeur of Rajasthan with its forts and palaces). Here get some brief information about more forts and places of Rajasthan and give yourself one more interesting reason to cherish holidays in Rajasthan.

Junagarh Fort

An impressive fort dating of 15th century, Junagarh Fort is a nice-break among Rajasthan’s hilltop fortresses. Situated in Bikaner, the fort basically lies in the dry part of Thar Desert. It covers an area of around 5.28 hectares and is designed in rectangular shape. Its huge and thick walls contain various beautiful temples and palaces, made of marble and red sandstone reflecting the many faces of Indian architectural panorama, especially the traditional Rajasthani decorative style. There are two entry points, Karan Pol and Suraj Pol among its total seven gates. This historical monument of Rajasthan is one among those few ancient forts that remain unconquered till date. Thanks to its massive 37 bastions that make Jungarh Fort a well-fortified citadel. For travelers, there is a museum too located within the precincts of the fort, and exhibits fine collection of miniature paintings, Persian and Sanskrit manuscripts, and royal items like clothes, jewels and portraits. It will take around 5 hours to reach Junagarh Fort from the state capital city.

City Palace Jaipur

A fascinating sight enriching the cultural heritage of the country, City Palace is a wonderful fusionic epitome of European, Mughal and Rajput styles. An initial creation of Sawai Jai Singh II, the palace later on got some major additions by successive kings up till 20th century. City Palace Jaipur is basically a complex of several magnificent palaces, temples, gardens and gates, among which the most notable and striking ones are Mubarak Mahal, Chandra Niwas, Diwan-i-Aam, Maharani Palace (now converted into a museum) and Govind Dev Ji temple. Along with these, visitors can also enrich their knowledge about ancient Indian carts at Baggi Khana. City Palace is located in the northeast area of Jaipur’s central region and has an opening time schedule along with entry fee charges.

Hawa Mahal

This impressive structure of Rajasthan doesn’t need any formal introduction. Considered as one of the most iconic faces of the state, Hawa Mahal or the “Palace of Winds”, adorns the city with its five-storey structure comprising of 953 mini windows (jharokhas) in facade. Though the palace is mainly designed for clear vision of royal women group without being seen but is dedicated to Lord Krishna and resembles like his crown. This pink and red sandstone structure stands proudly in the heart of Jaipur’s bustling centre and is a part of the City Palace complex. It is good to view the palace in the early phase of the day when golden rays transforms it into a striking style icon.

City Palace Udaipur

It is needless to say why one should visit Udaipur? Picturesque setting, bright clear lakes, grand architectural wonders and of course the world-class hospitality all together make this former capital of Mewar a most sought location for holidays in Rajasthan. Among the city’s marvels, one that is most stunning is the City Palace, a fusion of regional and Mughal architectural patterns. Maharana Udai Singh laid its first stone in 1559 and for the next 300 years this grand structure got embellishments by following successors. Situated on a ridge on the eastern shore of Lake Pichola, City Palace offers fine glimpse of intricate and delicate mirror and marble work, wall paintings, marble carvings and murals enriching its 11 interlinked palaces. Various other notable attractions of Udaipur lie close to this grand royal complex.

Ranthambore Fort

It will take around 4 and a half hour to reach Ranthambore Fort from Chittorgarh Fort. The former one is a part of the famous Ranthambore National Park and is a World Heritage Site. Sitting atop a hill, the fort provides stunning views of the park and is also said a good site to spot big wild cat and also for bird watching. Visitors can also access it from Bundi located around 261 km away.

Summary—

Though there are several places to visit in Rajasthan but the magnificence attached with its forts and palaces is unparallel. From Jaisalmer to Jodhpur, these former rulers’ seats not only hold the historical treasure of India but are also regarded as great architectural marvels. So, come and explore the different colours of Rajasthan with its history’s bystanders.

The author is a travel fanatic, she loves to share her travel experience through her articles.