In
spite of the presence of a huge desert, it would be like undermining the
beauty and charm of the place if Rajasthan is merely called a land of
desert. Infact, it is a golden desert, a land of superlatives wherein
everything is simply beautiful and fascinating. Rajasthan is packed with a
history that dates back to many thousand years. And the best examples of
Rajasthan's great historical past are the magnificent forts and palaces
dotting the landscape of the state. Some of them are legacies of the brave
Rajputs while others tell of the luxurious lifestyle of rulers of princely
states.
The Forts of Rajasthan
Mehrangarh Fort : The Mehrangarh Fort of Jodhpur is one of the most
formidable structures seen in the whole of Rajasthan. This is a 5 km long
fort standing on a 125 metre high elevated land. Within the fort complex are
some beautiful palaces with intricately carved panels, latticed windows and
evocative names. The fort has been built in such a way that it is virtually
invincible from outside.
Junagarh Fort : The Junagarh Fort of Bikaner was built by Rai Singh
during the period 1588-1593. This is a huge fort with a 986 metre long wall
having 37 bastions, a moat and two entrances. Unlike the other forts of
Rajasthan that have been built on high grounds, this fort has been built in
the plains. The major attractions within the fort complex are Anup Mahal,
Diwan-e-Khas, Hawa Mahal, Badal Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Phool Mahal, Rang
Mahal, Dungar Mahal and Ganga Mahal.
Jaigarh Fort : Built by Sawai Jai Singh in the year 1726, Jaigarh
Fort of Jaipur is a fantastic example of military structure of medieval
India. The chief attraction of this fort is 'Jai Ban', the largest cannon in
Asia. There is also a museum within the fort displaying a wide collection of
weapons and cannons used by the Rajput rulers.
Nahargarh Fort : On the outskirts of Jaipur city, Nahargarh Fort
stands on the rugged Aravali Hills. Nahargarh literally means abode of the
tigers and was built by Jai Singh II in 1734. From the very top of the fort,
a wonderful view of Mansagar lake and the Jal Mahal Palace are available.
Amber Fort : The Amber Fort of Jaipur was built by Raja Man Singh in
1600 AD. But the construction could not be completed and was continued by
Raja Jai Singh. Finally, it was completed in its present form by Sawai Jai
Singh in the eighteenth century. The best part of the fort is the fusion of
Hindu and Muslim styles in its architecture. The fort has been built using
red sandstone and white marble.
Jaisalmer Fort : The Jaisalmer Fort is a massive structure that
stands about 100 metres away from the city. The fort houses a citadel within
its massive ramparts. Several entrances called Pols guard the Megh Durbar
and Jawahar Mahal of the fort. They include Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol, Bhoota
Pol and the Hava Pol. The main market place called the Manek Chowk is
situated just outside the fort complex. The fort of Jaisalmer is also
popularly known as Golden Fort.
The Palaces of Rajasthan
Lalgarh Palace : Located in Bikaner, the magnificent palace was
built by Maharaja Ganga Singh in the memory of his father. The palace is
regarded as an architectural splendour in red sandstone. The best part of
the palace are its beautiful latticework and filigree work in sandstone. The
well laid out gardens of the palace are full of blooming bougainvillea
flowers.
Hawa
Mahal : The Hawa Mahal literally meaning palace on the winds is one of
the most famous buildings in Jaipur. The mahal was built by Sawai Pratap
Singh to enable the ladies of the royal household to watch the everyday life
and royal processions on the streets from safe and comfortable heights.
The City Palace : Occupying full one seventh of the walled city of
Jaipur is the mammoth City Palace. The palace is a fascinating blend of
Rajput and Mughal forms of architecture. The palace houses a museum having
an impressive collection of the costumes and armoury of Rajputs and the
Mughals. The palace looks extremely beautiful from a distance.
Jal Mahal : Jal Mahal is a unique palace dotting the Jaipur
landscape. This picturesque palace is encircled by the clear blue water Man
Sagar lake. The palace was built for hosting royal duck shooting parties by
Sawai Pratap Singh in the year 1799 A.D. Another feature is the presence of
a large number of migratory birds during winter in the lake. The palace has
been built in red sandstone and the colour contrast with blue waters are a
real treat to the eye.
Umaid Bhawan Palace : One of the most modern palaces dotting the
Rajasthan landscape is the Umaid Bhawan Palace built in the early part of
20th century. It is interesting to note that such a lavish palace was built
with the purpose of giving employment to the famine struck population of the
place at that time. The palace took 16 years for completion. The brilliant
monument has been built using sandstone of different colours. The
meticulously done designs on the ceilings, floors and walls of the palace
are great to watch.The palace is located in Jodhpur.
Udaipur Palace : The Palace of Udaipur is the largest palace of
Rajasthan and also one of the most beautiful. Overlooking Lake Pichola, the
scenic beauty of the surroundings can be enjoyed standing on its magnificent
lawns. Made of marble and granite, the palace houses three mahals - Baari,
Dilkush and Moti. The floor mosaics of the palace giving shape of peacocks
is most impressive. There is also a museum in the palace complex displaying
the collections of Rana Pratap.
The Lake Palace : The architecture and dimensions of Lake Palace are
such that it gives the impression of the palace floating on Lake Pichola.
Entirely a marble structure, this palace can only be accessed by boat. The
palace is located in Udaipur.
