AMER FORT: THE LIVING STORY OF JAIPUR'S GLORIOUS PAST

Amer Fort (also spelled Amber Fort) stands proudly 11 kilometers from Jaipur, offering a striking example of the blend between Rajput and Mughal architecture.

- TDG NETWORK

Built in the 16th century, this magnificent structure is more than just stone and marble — it tells the story of Rajasthan's royal past, filled with tales of love, bravery, art, and intrigue.

One of the most popular tourist destinations in India, Amer Fort is also a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site listing under the “Hill Forts of Rajasthan.” Its grand gateways, sprawling courtyards, and intricate details preserve the legacy of centuries gone by. Behind its ornate facades lie fascinating chapters of history — stories of kings and queens, war and peace, and timeless architectural brilliance

ORIGINS: FROM MEENAS TO THE KACHHWAHAS

The history of Amer dates back to the 10th century when it was ruled by the Meenas, an ancient tribal community of Rajasthan. The name “Amber” is believed to be derived from “Ambikeshwar,” another name for Lord Shiva, to whom the original temple on the site was dedicated.

However, the fort as we see today began to take shape in 1592 under the reign of Raja Man Singh I, a trusted general in Mughal Emperor Akbar’s army and a prominent figure in Indian history. He chose Amer as his capital and began the construction of the fort with the vision of blending strength with artistic elegance.

Later rulers, especially Mirza Raja Jai Singh I and Sawai Jai Singh II, continued to expand and beautify the fort, adding courtyards, halls, and palatial structures. Amer remained the capital of the Kachhwaha Rajputs until 1727, when Sawai Jai Singh II shifted it to the newly built city of Jaipur.

ARCHITECTURE: A ROYAL FUSION