If you are visiting Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, then you should not miss the opportunity to see the Amber Palace, also known as the Amer Fort. It is a magnificent fort and palace complex that was built by the Rajput rulers of Amer in the 16th century. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Jaipur and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit during Jaipur Local Sightseeing and one day trip From Delhi.
Amber Palace is located in Amer, a town about 11 km from Jaipur. It is situated on a hill overlooking the Maota Lake, which is the main source of water for the palace. The palace is built with red sandstone and white marble and has a blend of Hindu and Mughal architectural styles. It consists of four main sections, each with its own courtyard. It has many beautiful and intricate features such as the Diwan-e-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), the Diwan-e-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), and the Sukh Niwas (Pleasure Palace).
Amber Palace was the residence of the Rajput Maharajas and their families until they moved to Jaipur in 1727. It also has a temple dedicated to Shila Devi, a goddess of the Chaitanya cult, who was worshipped by Raja Man Singh I after he conquered Bengal in 1604. The palace also has a secret passage that connects it to the Jaigarh Fort, which was used as an escape route in times of war.
Here are some details about Amber Palace that will help you plan your visit.
Location of Amber Palace:
Amber Palace is located in Amer, about 11 km from Jaipur. It is easily accessible by road, rail, or air.
Timing/Entry Fees Amber Palace:
Amber Palace is open from 8 AM to 5:30 PM for day visits and from 6:30 PM to 9:15 PM for night visits. There is an entry fee of INR 200 per person for Indian citizens and INR 500 per person for foreign citizens for day visits and INR 100 per person for Indian citizens and INR 200 per person for foreign citizens for night visits. There is also a fee of INR 100 for camera and INR 200 for video camera.
How to reach Amber Palace:
The nearest airport to Jaipur is Jaipur International Airport, which is about 20 km from Amber Palace. You can take a taxi or a bus from the airport to Amber Palace. The nearest railway station to Jaipur is Jaipur Junction, which is about 13 km from Amber Palace. You can take an auto-rickshaw or a cycle-rickshaw from the station to Amber Palace. Alternatively, you can also drive your own vehicle or hire a car from Jaipur or other nearby cities.
Things to do/Must see Amber Palace:
There are many things to do and see at Amber Palace. Some of them are:
- Explore the palace and admire its architecture and design. The palace has many halls, chambers, gardens, pavilions, and terraces that showcase the royal lifestyle and culture of the Rajput rulers. You can also see the paintings, carvings, mirrors, mosaics, and frescoes that adorn the walls and ceilings of the palace.
- Enjoy the light and sound show that narrates the history and legends of Amber Palace. The show is held every evening in Hindi and English languages at different timings. The show lasts for about 50 minutes and costs INR 200 per person for Indian citizens and INR 300 per person for foreign citizens.
- Visit the Shila Devi Temple that is located near the Ganesh Pol (Gate) of the palace. The temple has a black stone idol of Shila Devi that is believed to have miraculous powers. The temple also has silver doors that depict scenes from Hindu mythology.
- Witness the elephant ride that takes you from the foot of the hill to the main entrance of the palace. The ride costs INR 1100 per elephant for two persons and lasts for about 20 minutes. You can also see the elephant painting and feeding activities at the elephant village near Amber Palace.
- Visit the nearby attractions such as Jaigarh Fort, which is a massive fort that houses the world’s largest cannon on wheels; Nahargarh Fort, which is a hilltop fort that offers panoramic views of Jaipur; Jal Mahal, which is a palace floating on Man Sagar Lake; and Hawa Mahal, which is a palace with hundreds of windows that allow breeze to enter.
Significance of Amber Palace:
Amber Palace is not only a tourist attraction but also a place of great religious and historical significance. Some of the reasons why this place is important are:
- It is associated with Maharaja Jai Singh II, who was a visionary ruler and a patron of arts and sciences. He was famous for his justice and wisdom and his stories are part of Indian folklore.
- It is one of the five observatories built by Maharaja Jai Singh II that showcase his scientific achievements and contributions to astronomy. These observatories are considered as architectural marvels and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- It is a place where many historical events took place such as battles, treaties, alliances, marriages, festivals, etc. It also witnessed many cultural exchanges between Rajputs and Mughals.
FAQ’s:
Q: When is the best time to visit Amber Palace?
A: The best time to visit Amber Palace is during the months of October to March when the weather is pleasant and comfortable.
Q: What are some tips for visiting Amber Palace?
A: Some tips for visiting Amber Palace are:
Avoid carrying valuables or expensive items as there may be crowds or pickpockets.
Follow the rules and regulations of the palace authorities such as maintaining cleanliness or not littering.
Be careful while exploring the palace as there may be steep stairs or slippery surfaces.
Respect the sentiments and beliefs of other visitors and do not disturb them.
Conclusion:
Amber Palace in Jaipur is a majestic fort and palace complex that showcases the royal splendor and glory of Rajasthan. It is a place where you can learn about the history and culture of Rajput rulers who ruled over Amer for centuries. It is also a place where you can witness some amazing architectural features such as halls, chambers, gardens, pavilions, terraces, paintings, carvings, mirrors, mosaics, frescoes etc. If you are looking for a fascinating and memorable trip you should definitely visit Amber Palace in Jaipur.
