Top 5 Famous Historical Hill Forts of Rajasthan

The land of Rajasthan tells the chivalric tale of the glorious Rajputana rule when many royal forts were constructed all around. To know more about the major forts of Rajasthan, read on...

Rajasthan, the royal State of India, abounds in Forts and Palaces, a legacy of the princely rulers of the various kingdoms in this region. If you want to experience what it must have been like centuries ago when people lived inside forts in order to stay protected against marauding invaders, you can visit some of the forts on your trip to Rajasthan. The landscape is dotted with forts from East to West and North to South but going to the biggest and the largest gives you an idea of the grandeur of those times.

1- Chittorgarh Fort, Chittorgarh

Chittorgarh Fort at Night

Chittorgarh fort epitomizes the bravery of Maharana Pratap and the valiant resistance of Rajput rulers of Rajasthan against muslim invaders. Located near Udaipur, Chittorgarh is India’s largest fort and picturesque, surrounded by 22 water bodies as it sits majestically atop a hillock. Said to be built by Chitrangad, a Rajput ruler sometime in the 5th Century, the Fort was subsequently expanded by various rulers. Some believe the fort is even more ancient. The fort is a World Heritage Site and covers an area of about 700 acres. It encompasses a collection of wonderful palaces, temples and towers, visiting which will take you almost a day or more. A mute testimony to the bravery of the Rajputs, the fort was the scene of mass suicides or Jauhar committed by the wives and children of the Rajputs when they lost against the invaders. The walls are about 4.5 km in length and have seven gateways for access.  Inside the fort you will find a bridge across the Gambhiri River. You will also find 4 palace complexes, memorials and 19 temples. The notable structures are the Vijay Stambh or tower. Of course, the most impressive structure is the Rana Kumbha Mahal home to the Rana and to Mira Bai. Just next to it is the Rana Fateh Palace, a more modern structure. The Padmini Palace is a beautiful structure in white, about 3 storeys in height and home to Maharani Padmini, wife of Maharana Rattan Singh.

2- Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer fort at Night

Though not as large as Chittorgarh, the Jaisalmer Fort in Jaisalmer is impressive. It was built in 1156 AD by Rao Jaisal from local yellow stones due to which it is known as Sonar Qila or golden fort. Another World Heritage Site you will come upon on your trip to Rajasthan’s forts, the fort is a massive structure and encompases royal palace and a large number of havelis with intricately carved stone jharokhas or windows and a number of Jain temples. The fort is in the centre of the city and is a bustling hub of activity unlike other forts that are outside the city and isolated.

3- Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur

Mehrangarh Fort at Night

Mehrangarh can also be counted as one of the largest forts in India. it overlooks the city of Jodhpur from atop a hill and the massive fort walls are embellished with canons. There are seven gates set in the walls and the fort itself encompasses Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesha Mahal and Sileh Kahana. There is also a museum showcasing palanquins and royal cradles among other royal artifacts.

4- Amer or Amber Fort, Jaipur

Amber Fort, Jaipur at Night

Raja Man Singh I started construction of this fort in 1592 and Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh completed it. Located about 11 km from Jaipur, the Amber or Amer Fort sits on a  rock overlooking the city. The outside is rocky walls but inside you will find exquisitely carved stone walls and paintings as well as mirror work. Inside you will find various buildings such as the Diwan-e-Aaam or the Durbar hall and the Dewan-e-khas for priate audiences. Also of interest are the Sheesh Mahal Palace, Sukh Nivas and the Jai Mandir. The courtyard has some beautiful gardens and the whole scene is just breathtaking, a throwback to what must have been a magnificent past.

5- Ranthambore Fort, Sawai Madhopur

Ranthambore Fort

The fort was built by the Chauhans in the 8th Century but has even more ancient roots. It is on top of a hill in the middle of the Ranthambore National Park and approach is through a steep flight of stairs. You will see the Sameton ki Haveli, a 32 pillared Chatri, the Toran dwar and the Ganesh Temple, which are the main attractions.