Monday, July 9, 2007

The Legendary Existence

Rajasthan, popularly known as the ‘Land of King’ is a land of amazing variety. Amidst its desert-breast, Rajasthan holds a number of natural and man-made wonders. Bestowed with Great Indian Thar Desert, Forts, Palaces, Monuments and many more famous establishments, Rajasthan draws tourists from India and worldwide.

By the way, have you ever dreamt of gorgeous palaces? Have you ever seen massive palaces and forts having lofty walls, decorated ceilings, delicate art and eminent sculptures? If you have such dream in your mind, then don’t wait, just visit the city of Jaipur, where Amber fort waits for you to fulfill your dream.

Set 11 kms away from Jaipur, Amber fort tells the tales of the glorious past of the Rajput Maharajas. In the year 1592, a Rajput ruler, Raja Man Singh, commenced the construction of the fort, later additions were made until the Kachwaha ruler, Sawai Jai Singh II transferred the capital to Jaipur.

Entirely built of red sandstone and white marble, the Amber Fort presents a excellent blending of Mughal and Hindu architectural essence. With its beautifully decorated gateways, well-managed gardens, huge halls, stairways, pillared pavilions, temples and palaces Amber Fort offers a hearty welcome to you. Some of the highlights of the fort include the Diwan-E-Aam, Diwan-E-Khas, Sheesh Mahal, Jai Mandir, Sukh Niwas, Shila Mata Temple, Kali temple and a well laid out garden, the Kesar Kyari.

Just at the entrance of the fort, the Dil-E-Aaram Garden, a traditional Mughal style garden, greets you. Next, see the Diwan-E-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) which has marvellous latticed galleries and double row of columns, having a capital in the shape of elephants on each top. A few steps in the right you will come across the Kali Temple, which has lofty silver doors. Further, the Shila Mata Temple is situated, where the Mother Goddess Kali was worshiped once.

Proceed next to Diwan-E-Khas, (Hall of Private Audience), Jai Mandir (Hall of Victory), known for its delicate ornamentation and Sheesh Mahal (Hall of Victory), famous for its unique craftsmanship in mirrors. Sukh Niwas (Hall of Pleasure), located very close to the Jai Mandir has the beautiful sandalwood doors. Famous scenes from Verses from Krishna Purana related to Krishan Leela are inscribed on the walls of the Zenana (Women) apartments. Kesar Kyari, a floral garden having a celestial view, is located in the center of Maotha lake, while the Dil-E-Aaram Bagh at its north end provide a panoramic view of the fort.

Moreover, at every nook and corner of the fort, you will feel the presence of Rajput royalty. Hence, why are you thinking a lot? Don’t waster your time? Come Jaipur by air, rail or road, visit Amber fort to have the smack of bygone Rajput grandeur.