Amer Fort – A Palace Perched on a Hill in Jaipur

Amer Fort or Amber Fort (as the guidebooks name it) literally sits atop a hill in Jaipur. I’d say that Amer Fort looks more marvelous that the Red Forts in Agra and New Delhi. You’ll find every courtyard, palace and room interesting to discover. Though there were some renovations going on when I went there, the fort never failed to amaze me. Its colossal structure should be explored in details and with curiosity. In most cases, you’ll be in for a surprise in every corner you’d go in.

Amer Fort is one destination in Jaipur you shouldn’t miss.

Amer got its name from Amba Mata, the goddess of earth and fertility.

And some locals say that Amber Fort is the most romantic of all forts in India. I have no idea why. It might have something to do with its location.

It is known for its artistic Hindu-style elements that are evident around palaces.

The fort is perched on a hill, overlooking Maota lake that supplies water to the palace.

It looks like a tedious hike up there but it really is not.

And, please, don’t use the elephants unless you’re really physically challenged.

There are many rooms and palaces inside the fort.

But of all these palaces, Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) is the most famous and beautiful of all. And perhaps, the most photographed, too.

From the windows of the Sun Gate, you’ll see the biggest courtyard in Amer Fort. And from these windows, you’re facing the morning sun – that’s how the gate got its name.

Behind Amer Fort, you’ll find Kadimi Mahal (Ancient Palace), the “Oldest Surviving Palace” in India.

The second floor of the Palace has a panoramic view of the town of Amer.

It also has a perfect view of the floating garden below. Well, it’s not literally floating but it’s just mostly surrounded with water.

Amber Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2013.

If you’re not afraid of the dark, you can take the tunnel that leads to Jaigarh Fort.

Amber or Amer Fort receives around 5,000 visitors everyday. It is crowded at certain times of the day.

Go there early morning and be one of the few who’d experience the fort in its utmost silence. And on your way back to Jaipur, don’t forget to drop by Jal Mahal, the Water Palace.