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Jaigarh Fort is a monumental fort located on the Aravalli Ranges of Rajasthan, towering at an impressive height of 500m above sea level. The fort was constructed in 1726 by the famous Raja Jai Singh II as a means to fortify the Amer Fort.
In fact, you can see an unobstructed view of Amer Fort and its complex from the Jaigarh Fort and also witness a breath-taking view of the green hills and lakes that surround the fort. It is one of the most distinctive historical monuments in the Jaipur area and has many unique features that make it unique.
The largest canon in the world, which is called the Jaivana Cannon, can be found inside the premises. The canon was built inside the Jaigarh Fort itself and is said to have participated in many famous Rajput battles and wars. Other attractions inside the fort include the Vilas Mandir, the Aram Mandir, Laxmi Vilas and the Lalit Mandir.
Jaigarh Fort in Jaipur is a testament to Rajputana's bravery. Built-in 1726 by Maharaja Jai Singh II, it offers breathtaking views of Amer Fort and its lush surroundings. It is also home to Jaivana, the world's largest cannon. Featuring sprawling gardens and grand palaces, it is a fine example of Rajasthan's rich history and architectural brilliance.
Jaigarh Fort sits high on the Aravalli Hills in Rajasthan and serves as a testament to the grandeur of the state's royal past. Built in 1726 by Maharaja Jai Singh II, this impressive fortress overlooks the splendid Amer Fort, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The fort stands as a symbol of strength and architecture, made evident by its vast walls and strategic location.
Jaigarh Fort is renowned for housing the world's largest cannon on wheels, the Jaivana Cannon, showcasing the military brilliance of the Rajputs. Its extensive premises include beautiful palaces, lush gardens, and a meticulously designed water harvesting system, reflecting the advanced engineering of the era. The fort's architecture, with its red sandstone walls, intricately designed lattice windows, and majestic gateways, speaks volumes of the craftsmanship of the time.
A visit to Jaigarh Fort is not just a journey through its imposing battlements but also a peek into the rich history and culture of Amer. The fort has stood the test of time, never having been captured by invaders. Today, it serves as a significant reminder of Rajasthan's glorious past. It invites travelers from around the world to explore its grandeur, making it a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the essence of Rajput's bravery and architectural brilliance.
Highlights
• Discover the grandeur of Jaigarh Fort, perched atop the Aravalli Ranges, offering stunning views of Jaipur's cityscape.
• Marvel at the world's largest cannon on wheels, the Jaivana Cannon, a testament to Rajput engineering.
• Wander through the lush Persian gardens, divided into four parts, offering peace and serenity.
• Gaze out from the lattice-work windows, offering a unique view of the surrounding landscapes.
• Explore the armory and museum, showcasing a rich collection of medieval weapons and artifacts.
How To Reach
By Car: Start from the city center heading towards Amer Road. From Jaipur city centre, Jaigarh Fort is approximately 13.8 kilometres away. Follow the road to Amer Fort, which is a landmark before Jaigarh Fort. From Amer Fort, a steep road leads directly to Jaigarh Fort. The drive from the city centre takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
By Bus: Rajasthan State Transport Corporation (RSTC) buses run regularly from the Narayan Singh Circle stop in the city centre to the Amer Fort bus stand. It is located 7.1 kilometres from Jaigarh Fort. From here, you can hire an auto-rickshaw to the fort, which takes 10 to 15 minutes.
Best Time To Visit
Jaigarh Fort is a year-round destination. It offers unique experiences every season.
Best Season: Plan your visit during the cooler months of November to February. The pleasant weather during this time enhances your fort exploration experience.
Best Day: Opt for a weekday, when you plan to visit the fort. This will help you avoid the crowds and get a more relaxed look at the fort's wonders.
Best Time of the Day: Aim for a morning visit to Jaigarh Fort, ideally when it opens for visitors at around 09:00 a.m.. This timing allows for a detailed tour of the fort without the rush of visitors. You can also capture views of the fort and its surrounding landscapes in the best light in the morning.
Other Essential Information
Facts about Jaigarh Fort:
Jaigarh Fort is one of the oldest forts in Jaipur with a rich history. Here are a few interesting facts you should know about the structure:
-Jaigarh Fort is made entirely of red sandstone that is composed of dressed stone that has been held together with lime mortar.
-Even though it is famous in history as a store-house for battle paraphernalia, it started as a royal residence for the Rajas and Maharajas of Amer.
-The area around the fort was full of ore mines which resulted in Emperor Shah Jahan using it as one of his main cannon foundries.
-In fact, the Jaivana Cannon, which was then the largest cannon in the world and is now the largest moveable cannon in Asia can still be found on the premises of the Jaigarh Fort.
-The cannon weighs over 50 tonnes with a barrel that is 20.19 feet long and a diameter of 11 inches. It has been fired only once since its construction.
-One of the most attractive features of the fort is the central watchtower which was used by rules to keep an eye out for incoming invaders or attacks. It now serves as one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the Amer area, from where you can get an unparalleled view of the mountainside.
-The fort received a lot of media attention in 1977 when it was rumoured that a treasure left by the Kachwaha rulers still existed within the premises of the fort. The then Prime Minister of the country, India Gandhi, launched a treasure hunt when the Fort was closed for three days and officers from the Income Tax Department searched the Jaigarh Fort for the Kachwada treasure, but ultimately no treasure was found.
-It was later concluded that the treasure must have been utilized by Raja Jai Singh II built the city of Jaipur.
About Jai Vana:
The Jaivana cannon was built on the premises of the Jaigarh Fort in 1720 by Jai Singh II. It was then the largest cannon in the whole world, with a total weight of 50 tonnes (50,000kg) and a length of 20.19 feet. Unlike traditional cannons which are mounted on two wheels, the Jaivana is mounted on 4 wheels.
This cannon can rotate 360 degrees and was originally made for intense warfare. However, because Shah Jahan (during whose time it was built) and the Rajputs were on friendly terms with each other, the cannon has only been fired once during its lifetime. It can still be found inside the Jaigarh Fort and is considered one of its primary attractions.
Tips for visiting Jaigarh Fort:
- Wear comfortable clothing like cotton or linen to stay cool in Rajasthan's heat.
- Wear climbing shoes for exploring the rough terrain around Jaigarh Fort.
- Hire a guide to navigate the fort's complex layout and learn more about its history.
- Carry water bottles to stay hydrated in the hot climate.
- Be cautious near the fort's edges and windows to ensure safety.
Discover the Might of Jaivana Cannon
Jaigarh Fort is home to the Jaivana Cannon, the world's largest cannon on wheels. This engineering marvel was cast in 1720 and stands as a testament to the advanced warfare technology of the Rajputs. Witnessing this colossal cannon, you will be intrigued by its size and the craftsmanship involved. The cannon, which has a barrel length of over 20 feet and a diameter of 11 inches, was fired only once. The story of its test firing, which covered a distance of about 35 kilometres, adds a fascinating layer to its history. Standing next to it, you can't help but marvel at the power it represents and the brilliance of those who created it.
Soak in Panoramic City Views from the Fort
From the watchtower of Jaigarh Fort, you can soak in the breathtaking views of the Aravalli Ranges and the scenic landscape below. The panoramic vista includes the charming Amer Fort, Nahargarh Fort and the serene Maota Lake, creating a picturesque setting. The watchtower was strategically placed for surveillance in ancient times. Now, it offers a peaceful spot for visitors to capture stunning photographs. Gazing out over the terrain connects you to the fort's historical essence, much like the guards of the past. It also provides a serene moment to appreciate nature's beauty.
Discover the Architectural Grandeur
Strolling through Jaigarh Fort, you will encounter architectural marvels that showcase the Rajput's mastery of construction. The fort's walls, built from red sandstone, encase beautiful palaces, gardens, and courtyards, each telling its own story. The intricate lattice windows and majestic gateways are particularly striking. They offer a glimpse into the past where elegance and strength coexisted. During your exploration, note the fort's strategic design, which includes the world's largest cannon on wheels, Jaivana. This highlights its crucial role in defence and showcases innovation in ancient warfare.
Delve into the Museum's Treasures
Jaigarh Fort houses a museum that presents a rich tapestry of Rajput culture and history. The museum’s collections include photographs of the royal family, ancient artefacts, and a detailed plan of the fort. One of the highlights is the 15th-century spittoon (container used for spitting), showcasing the lavish lifestyle of the era. You can also discover exhibits containing warfare from the Rajput era, including shields, helmets, axes, rifles, swords, and daggers. As you wander through the museum, each exhibit connects you deeper with the legacy of the Rajput rulers, their artistic skills, and their brave spirits.
Walk Through the Persian Gardens
The fort’s Persian-style gardens, divided into four sections, are a haven of tranquillity. These well-preserved gardens, with their symmetrical layout, offer a peaceful retreat away from the fort’s military might. Walking through the garden paths, you are surrounded by the soothing greenery, with the sound of birds and the gentle rustle of leaves. This serene experience contrasts with the fort's rugged exterior. It provides you with a moment of reflection on the blend of beauty and strength that defines Jaigarh Fort.
Tourism Board Alliances
Jaigarh Fort FAQs
How do you get to Jaigarh Fort?
By flight: The nearest airport is at Jaipur if you want to travel to Jaigarh Fort. You can hire buses, taxis and even auto-rickshaws to take you to the fort from the airport. The airport is accessible from all parts of the country with frequent flights.
By train: The station closest to Jaigarh Fort is the Jaipur Junction, in Jaipur. Trains stop at this junction from all parts of the country at frequent intervals, and after alighting from the train, one can easily get a taxi or a bus from the station itself to take you to the fort.
By road: The easiest way to get to Jaigarh Fort is by road. It is well-connected to several major highways. Cars, buses, taxis and even rickshaws can be seen travelling on these roads so reaching the fort by road is no trouble at all.
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