Jaigarh Fort is an imposing fortress located on the outskirts of Jaipur in Rajasthan. Perched atop the hill known as “Cheel Ka Teela“, this majestic fort is a must-visit attraction to explore the history and architecture of the Pink City. In this article, we provide all the details one needs to know before visiting the magnificent Jaigarh Fort of Jaipur.
History of Jaigarh Fort Jaipur
Jaigarh Fort was built in the 15th century under the patronage of Raja Jai Singh II. It took around 3 centuries to fully complete its construction. As the name suggests, Jaigarh Fort was connected to the Amber Palace Fort and served as its strong protective structure. The fort housed the artillery, weapons, and ammunition factories of the Kachwaha rulers. Underground passages provided secure connectivity between Jaigarh and Amber forts. Over the centuries, Jaigarh Fort served as a powerful defensive stronghold given its hilltop location.
Architecture of Jaigarh Fort
Jaigarh Fort sprawls across 3 km in length and 1 km in width atop the Aravalli hills. It has thick protective walls made of red sandstone that run along the entire perimeter.
The architecture shows a seamless blend of Rajput and Mughal styles. Jaigarh Fort has intricately designed Mughal-style gardens, temples, palaces, granaries, water tanks, and other structures.
The lattice windows, called jharokhas, offer stunning views of the landscape below. But the jali screen design prevents anyone from looking inside, thus ensuring privacy. The fort interiors showcase opulent decor, mirror-work, carvings, and wall paintings.
Also Read: Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Jaipur at Night
Key Attractions at Jaigarh Fort
Massive Protective Walls of Jaigarh Fort
One of the most striking aspects visible from afar is the gigantic red sandstone walls enclosing Jaigarh Fort. The perimeter runs over 3 km in length along the hills. Though the walls appear endless, they provide formidable protection supplemented by watchtowers. The inner side has a walkway to patrol the huge expanse. Staircases are strategically located for ingress and egress.
World’s Largest Cannon – Jaivana
The most famous attraction at the Jaigarh Fort is the Jaivana Cannon, the largest wheeled cannon in the world when manufactured in 1720 AD. This fifty-tonne iron cannon has an enormous barrel measuring about 6 meters in height and 50 cm in diameter.
To enable swivel movement, Jaivana rests on four wheels instead of two. This allows firing the formidable cannon in all four directions as required. However, Jaivana was fired only once since its creation.
Underground Water Storage System
Jaigarh Fort has an ingenious underground water supply system comprising three covered tanks. These helped supply water self-sufficiently during long battles and sieges.
The biggest tank is Sagar Talav with a mammoth sixty lakh gallon storage capacity. It collected rainwater channeled from the roof and fortresses. Two smaller tanks were also integral parts of this rainwater harvesting system that proved critical for the fort.
Legends of Hidden Treasures
Jaigarh Fort also has intriguing legends surrounding possible treasure buried below it. As per folklore, the fort contained abundant wealth acquired from military campaigns.
Some accounts mention Indira Gandhi ordering excavations within Jaigarh in the 1970s after getting hold of clues but nothing surfaced. The tales of concealed treasures continue to fuel curiosity about the secrets that lie buried in Jaigarh Fort.
Strategic Location
Jaigarh Fort’s hilltop location provided a key strategic advantage for the royals to install artillery and monitor the surroundings. This helped them defend against any potential sieges and attacks.
The connectivity to Amer Fort using underground passages also enabled secure movement and facilitation of supplies. The abundant water tanks and vantage points added to the fort’s impregnability.
What to See and Do at the Jaigarh Fort?
Jaigarh Fort retains its old-world charm as the ‘Victory Fort‘ with its sprawling complex housing splendid palaces, temples, granaries, reservoirs, gardens, and bastions. It offers captivating panoramic views of Jaipur city and the scenic Sagar Lake nestled within its premises.
Armory at Jaigarh Fort
Jaigarh Fort has an extensive armory that provides insights into the weapons and war essentials utilized by Rajput warriors. Visitors can see an array of original swords, guns, shields, muskets, and other ancient weaponry at the armory museum. It also displays remarkable collections of cannonballs, swords, shields, guns, and bombs dating back to the 18th century. The armory highlights the valor and military might of Jaipur’s rulers.
Insightful Museum at the Fort
The well-maintained museum within Jaigarh Fort offers a peek into the lifestyle of royals and warriors. It has a rich collection of artifacts including portraits of Jaipur rulers, unique puppets, ancient coins, paintings, stamps, and gold-silver ornaments of royal families. One can also spot intriguing items like a 15th-century spittoon and circular playing cards. The museum provides glimpses into Jaipur’s history through the fort’s blueprint and palace images.
Temples to Explore
Jaigarh Fort houses multiple historic temples like the 10th century Ram Harihar Temple and the 12th century Kal Bhairav Temple. The temple architecture and idols provide a spiritual experience amidst the fort’s majestic setting. These ancient shrines are a must-visit.
Scenic Views from Diya Burj
Diya Burj offers splendid panoramas of Jaipur’s landscape with the flag of the state fluttering high. The tower along with the various watchtowers provide unforgettable views of Aravalli hills, Amber Fort, and the region’s natural beauty.
Subhat Niwas to Marvel Royal History
Subhat Niwas, also called Diwan-e-Aam, is where the king held crucial military meetings. The hall has attractions like giant war drums, elephant seats, and sedan chairs that offer glimpses into the fort’s history.
Khilbhat Nivas
Khilbhat Nivas or Diwan-e-Khas served as the confidential meeting point for the ruler within Jaigarh Fort. The hall provides insights into the administrative affairs during the fort’s active days.
Royal Charm of Laxmi Vilas
Laxmi Vilas chamber stands out with pleasant wall paintings and ornate designs. They draw visitors with mattresses and seating envisioning important discussions and relaxation.
Lalit Mandir Palace
Lalit Mandir palace shows glimpses of the lavish summer palace and royal bedrooms on its higher floors, giving a window into the ruler’s living quarters.
Vilas Mandir’s Elegance
Vilas Mandir palace served as an exclusive area for royal women with fine jali work and Araish designs. The hall provides a peek into the lives of female royals.
Puppet Shows at the Theatre
The Jaigarh Fort Theatre serves as an entertainment zone with folk art shows. The most popular puppet show provides a cultural glimpse and memorable souvenirs.
Best Time to Visit Jaigarh Fort
The most ideal time to visit Jaigarh Fort Jaipur is between October to March. The weather during winter months is cool and pleasant, allowing comfortable exploration of the vast fort complex.
Summers can get very hot and dry. Monsoons bring high humidity levels along with the risk of sudden rainfall. Avoid summertime heat and monsoon moisture for the best experience at Jaigarh Fort.
Jaigarh Fort Visiting Hours
Jaigarh Fort is open for visitors from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. It takes a minimum of 2-3 hours to see the main attractions. Reaching early in the day is advisable to avoid rushing and explore the various structures at leisure.
Jaigarh Fort Entry Fees
The entry tickets to Jaigarh Fort have the following charges:
- For Indians – Rs 50 per person
- For Foreign Tourists – Rs 150 per person
- Children below 8 years – Free entry
There are additional charges for cameras and guides:
- Still Camera – Rs 200
- Video Camera – Rs 500
- Hindi Speaking Guide – Rs 200
- English Speaking Guide – Rs 300
How to Reach Jaigarh Fort
Jaigarh Fort is located 14 km from Jaipur city. It is connected to the Amber Palace Fort near Jal Mahal by road. One can hire an auto, Ola/Uber, or take the local buses plying at regular intervals to reach Jaigarh Fort.
By Air – Jaipur Airport is the nearest airport located around 13 km away
By Rail – Jaipur Railway Junction is 22 km away
By Road – Easily accessible by road via NH11 and well connected to major areas in Jaipur.
With its colossal size, rich history, and majestic architecture, Jaigarh Fort Jaipur stands tall as an iconic fortress. Visiting this Victory Fort provides a glimpse into Rajasthan’s glorious past.