Top Forts to visit in Rajasthan

Most Unique Forts to visit in Rajasthan 

Rajasthan is a land of forts, with its rich cultural heritage and long history of warfare, it's no surprise that this state is dotted with forts and fortresses that date back several centuries. These forts in Rajasthan served as strongholds and played a significant role in the defense of the region from marauding invaders. The state has several iconic forts that are a testament to the architectural brilliance and engineering skills of the rulers of the bygone era. From the majestic Amer Fort in Jaipur to the imposing Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, each fort in Rajasthan has its unique charm and story to tell.

Fort Khejarla was constructed in early 1611 A.D. for Maharajah Gopal Das Ji, who was granted ‘Jagirs’ (fiefdoms) of Khejarla and nearby villages for his great achievement in war against the Mughals, in honour of his service to the Maharaja of Jodhpur. The Mughal army rolled in to attack the Fort three times. Each time the Fort was destroyed, it was rebuilt. 

The Amer Fort, also known as Amber Fort, is one of the most visited forts in Rajasthan. Built-in the 16th century by Raja Man Singh, the fort is located on a hilltop overlooking the Maota Lake. The fort's architectural style is a blend of Hindu and Mughal influences, and its intricate carvings and paintings are a sight to behold. The fort also has a unique feature - a secret passage that connects it to the Jaigarh Fort, which was used by the rulers in times of war.

Another iconic fort in Rajasthan is the Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur. Built-in the 15th century by Rao Jodha, the fort is perched on a rocky hilltop and offers stunning views of the city. The fort has several palaces and temples within its walls, including the Sheesh Mahal, Phool Mahal, and the Chamunda Mataji Temple. The fort's walls are massive, and the complex is so vast that it takes hours to explore its various sections.

The Jaisalmer Fort, also known as the Sonar Quila, is a magnificent fort in Rajasthan built-in the 12th century. The fort's walls are made of yellow sandstone and seem to glow in the sunlight, earning it the nickname "Golden Fort." The fort is located in the heart of Jaisalmer city and is home to several ornate palaces, temples, and havelis. The fort's architecture is a unique blend of Rajput and Islamic styles and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture.

The Chittorgarh Fort is another significant fort in Rajasthan that dates back to the 7th century. The fort is located on a hilltop overlooking the city of Chittorgarh and covers an area of over 700 acres. The fort has several temples and palaces, including the Kirti Stambh, Vijay Stambh, and the Rana Kumbha Palace. The fort is also famous for its tragic history - it was besieged several times by invaders, and its women committed mass suicide rather than submit to the enemy.

The Kumbhalgarh Fort, located in the Aravalli hills, is a massive fort in Rajasthan that is known for its impressive walls. The fort's walls are over 36 kilometers long and are believed to be the second-longest continuous wall after the Great Wall of China. The fort has several temples and palaces within its walls, including the Kumbha Palace and the Badal Mahal. The fort's walls also have several gateways, including the Hanuman Pol, Nimboo Pol, and the Aret Pol.

The Junagarh Fort in Bikaner is another iconic fort in Rajasthan that is known for its impressive architecture. Built-in the 16th century by Raja Rai Singh, the fort is home to several palaces, temples, and courtyards. The fort's walls are made of red sandstone and are adorned with intricate carvings and paintings. The fort's palaces include the Anup Mahal, Chandra Mahal, and Phool Mahal, each with its unique charm and grandeur. The fort also has a museum that houses an impressive collection of artifacts, including weapons, costumes, and manuscripts.

The Ranthambore Fort is a historic fort in Rajasthan that is located within the Ranthambore National Park. Built-in the 10th century by the Chauhan dynasty, the fort played a significant role in the region's history. The fort's walls are over 7 kilometers long and encircle several palaces and temples, including the Hammir Court, Badal Mahal, and the Jain Temple. The fort also offers panoramic views of the national park and is a popular spot for wildlife enthusiasts.

The Gagron Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the few forts in Rajasthan that is surrounded by water. Built-in the 14th century by the Chauhan dynasty, the fort is located on an island at the confluence of the Ahu and Kali Sindh rivers. The fort's walls are made of stone and are adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. The fort's palaces include the Rani Mahal, Phool Mahal, and the Jagdish Temple, each with its unique architecture and design.

In conclusion, the forts in Rajasthan are a testament to the state's rich cultural heritage and history of warfare. Each fort has its unique charm and tells a story of the region's rulers and their struggles to defend their land. The forts are a testament to the architectural brilliance and engineering skills of the bygone era and are a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture. From the majestic Amer Fort to the imposing Mehrangarh Fort, the forts in Rajasthan are a treasure trove of history and culture that continue to fascinate and intrigue visitors from all over the world.