15 Famous Forts of Rajasthan
Rajasthan is the land of Kings and royalty can be felt in every corner of the state. No one denies that the forts and palaces of Rajasthan remind us of the bygone era which sounds like a fairy tale and we can imagine those eras of these monuments. But as you go for a tour of Rajasthan, you will see the princely states of the state through forts, which are living examples of their majestic princely life. There are many forts in Rajasthan but do not forget to see the forts given below.
Most famous and historical forts of Rajasthan
Amer Fort, Jaipur
Amer Fort is one of the best hill forts in Rajasthan located in the capital city of Jaipur and was built by Raja Man Singh. The fort is also named as Amber Fort and is a unique example of Hindu artistry designs. This monumental architecture is built in red sandstone and marble. Some of the famous buildings include Sheesh Mahal, Diwan-i Aam, Diwan-i-Khas, Sukh Niwas and Jai Mandir.
Jalore Fort, Jalore
The Jalore Fort in Rajasthan was built between the 8th to the 10th century. It has four large gates but is accessible only from one side following a two-mile long snake-like slope. This fort is also situated on a vast hilly area and is known for its ancient heritage.
Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer Fort is also called Golden Fort and is one of the hill forts of Rajasthan. The fort itself is a complete settlement and one of the beautiful architectures of Indian history. The fort is built in the classic Indian style and the beauty of the fort must be seen at sunrise or sunset, when the sun’s rays fall on the yellow sandstone architecture, shining like melting gold.
Gagron Fort, Jhalawar
Gagron Fort is counted among the best hill forts in Rajasthan and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, surrounded by three rivers of Sindh, Kali and Ahu. The fort provides a serene backdrop and is one of the famous forts in Rajasthan.
Jaigarh Fort, Jaipur
Jaigarh Fort is considered to be one of the largest hill forts of Rajasthan. The fort was built by Sawai Jai Singh II in the early 18th century and the fort is situated amidst dry and rocky terrain, surrounded by hills. Tourists get a panoramic view of the entire city of Jaipur from this place.
Chittorgarh Fort
Chittorgarh Fort of Rajasthan is a symbol of bravery and courage of Rajput Kings of Sisodia and Mewar rulers. It is one of the most famous forts of Rajasthan. The fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was the capital of Mewar. The fort has palaces, temples, gates and towers which describe all the details of the place.
Junagadh Fort, Bikaner
Junagadh Fort is located in the beautiful city of Bikaner and was built by Raja Rai Singh in 1558 AD. He was one of the most distinguished generals in the court of the Mughal Emperor Akbar. The fort is built in red sandstone and is known for its splendid carvings. There are many palaces, courtyards, windows which are worthy of praise for their marble and stone carvings.
Ranthambore Fort, Sawai Madhopur
Ranthambore Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known as one of the hill forts of Rajasthan. The fort is located within the areas of Ranthambore National Park and happens to be the seat of the Chauhan dynasty. This fort was captured several times by Muslim kings and Chauhan rulers.
Khimsar Fort, Nagaur
The Khmer Fort is counted as one of the most beautiful forts in Rajasthan which was built by the Nag Kings in the 2nd century and that is why it is also named as Nagaur Fort. But in 1523 the fort was rebuilt and believed to be more than 500 years old. The Mughal king Aurangzeb used to stay here, but the fort is currently converted into a heritage hotel.
Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajsamand
Kumbhalgarh Fort is one of the great forts of Rajasthan and has historical importance. The fort was the birthplace of Maharana Pratap who was a prominent ruler of Mewar and is known for his bravery. The fort is located on top of a hill and is then revered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it is the largest wall after the Great Wall of China.
Lohgarh Fort, Bharatpur
The Lohgarh Fort as the name suggests was an iron fort and it actually survived many attacks by the British. The fort was eventually captured by Arthur Wellesley. The fort has some interesting attractions like Mahal Khas, Kothi Khas, Moti Mahal and Kishori Mahal.
Nahargarh Fort, Jaipur
Nahargarh Fort is the best sightseeing place in Jaipur and one of the major forts of Rajasthan. The fort is situated on the hill side of the mighty Aravalli mountains and the name of this fort means ‘home of tigers’. The fort was built in 1734 by Raja Jai Singh. Later in 1868 the fort was rebuilt to give it a larger size and present architecture.
Neemrana Fort, Alwar
Neemrana Fort was believed to be the home of Lord Krishna or the descendants of Yaduvanshis. But many battles were fought for this fort and one after the other, it was ruled by the Mughals and Jato from the Rajputs, and finally in the year 1775 it was conquered by the Rajputs. But at present this beautiful fort has been converted into a heritage hotel.
Taragarh Fort, Bundi
Taragarh Fort was one of the best and stunning forts of Rajasthan and was built in 1345. But as you enter the magnificent fort, you can see it as a great architectural building in the typical Rajput style with stone carvings on the walls and beautiful terraces and pavilions.
Bhatner Fort, Hanumangarh
Bhatner Fort is one of the oldest forts in India and one of the most iconic forts in Rajasthan. The specialty of this fort is that the Mughal king Akbar had mentioned this fort in Ain-i-Akbari. The fort was built by the son of the Raja of Jaisalmer named Bhupat. The fort is really strong and has temples and huge gates and is situated on the banks of river Ghengar.