Jaigarh Fort, Jaipur

Also known as the ‘Victory Fort’, The Jaigarh Fort is a majestic fort nestled on the ‘Cheel ka Teela’ (Hill of Eagles) on the Aravalli range. The history of the structure dates back to the year 1726 when it was built by Jai Singh II (the Maharaja after whom the fort is named).

The fort was built to protect the Amber Fort and also the palace housed inside it. It holds similarity in design and structure with that of the Amber Fort. Both of them are connected by a steep hill track which if climbed from Amber fort will take you to Jaigarh fort’s Awami gate.

The massive fort has thick walls made out of red sandstone. Since, it stands above the Amber Fort, it is still intact and there is no visible damage to the property. There is an alluring garden inside the fort named as the Charbagh garden. The exemplary walkways in the garden area will give you solace.

There are palaces within the fort which have several courtrooms and screened windows. There is a watch tower which is housed on a raised ground. An unparallel view of the surrounding is seen from the top of this tower.

The Aram Mandir is a must-visit place inside the fort. The garden in the complex is worth a watch. The Awami gate which is connected to the hill track coming from the Amber Fort is an entrance to this Mandir. There is an artificial lake called the Sagar Lake which is seen from this gate. There are three other similar complexes inside the fort namely, Lalit Mandir, Vilas Mandir, and Laxmi Vilas. Two temples perched inside the monument are Ram Harihar temple and the Kal Bhairav temple.

To the left of the Awami gate is a museum that exhibits royal photographs of Jaipur and several other artifacts. You can spot a wide variety of stamps, hand-drawn architectural plans of palaces, a pack of cards and a vintage spittoon that belongs to the 15^th century.

Your visit to the fort is incomplete without going through the armory. It is a capacious chamber that displays various weapons, arms and ammunitions that were used in ancient times. You will also find photographs of the Maharajas of Jaipur.

The most striking part of the Jaigarh fort is the foundry where the Jaivana Cannon was manufactured. This cannon in its time was the largest in the world. You will be awestruck by looking at the cannon on wheels and it is undoubtedly a breathtaking sight.

There is much more to explore in the fort and you also get a golden opportunity to capture this historical wonder. A magnificent view of the place is seen from the edges of the fort. Visit the spectacular fort and experience India’s glory all by yourself.