Early Mornings For An Elephant Ride At Amber Fort

Located 11kms away from the hubbub city of Jaipur on the Aravalli hilltop lies the UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of Hill Forts of Rajasthan – Amber Fort. As regal as can be, Jaipur’s magnificent Amber Fort rightly personifies the state’s rich culture.

But there is something enchanting and delighting when you are in Jaipur and to be more precise – at Amber Fort. Elephants – beautifully painted and richly ornamented are the most adored creatures in Rajasthan. These elephants are used in providing rides to the tourists to make there journey pleasant and amusing. These rides tend to transform you into a regal era of Maharajas when they used to commute with pride on these adorned elephant backs.

With the increased influx of tourists in Jaipur, the timings of elephant ride at Amer Fort will now be open a little early, between 7.00 am to 11.30 am in the mornings.

So now you can take an elephant ride up the cobbled path on the fort and truly feel like you deserve all the royal treatment that is being bestowed upon you.

The Amphitheatre At Nahargarh To Get Renovated

The heritage sites, forts and museums have attracted number of tourists to the pink city. Keeping in mind this increase in the number, the tourism department started a new concept of light and sound show at the Amber Fort and Jantar Mantar. Not only this, the pink city witnesses the success of night tourism as people get to enjoy the glimpse of such historic places with the downfall of the sun.

Image Credit : www.thrillophilia.com

Similarly, the amphitheatre at Nahargarh Fort is all set and ready to get some renovations. The famous amphitheatre which is also seen in some movies like Rang De Basanti will have some cultural activities and soon will be the third in the list of heritage structure to conduct light and sound show and various other activities. It will also host water walks to increase the number of tourists, thus compelling the tourists to visit again 🙂

 

Experience Different Aspects Of Rajasthan With The Desert Circuit

With the increasing number of tourists visiting the colorful state of Rajasthan, the IRCTC has introduced a royal train to the state, specially designed to cater to the middle class.

Image via Goggle

The Desert Circuit is a semi – luxurious train which offers a package of 4 nights and 5 days. The train departs s from New Delhi on a five day odyssey with an array of deluxe facilities. The ‘Desert Circuit covers Rajasthan’s famed cities of sprawling deserts Jaisalmer and the eclectic heritage of the Pink City – Jaipur.

This special train which runs on the lines of the royal Palace on Wheels has its first halt at Jaisalmer for 2 days where tourists can enjoy the camel safari, sunset and visit the Sonar Haveli, Patwa Ki Haveli, Gadisar Lake and many others. The next halt is in the Pink City, where the tourists get to visit the City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal and other tourist spots.

Re- living 64 Years Of Rajasthan On Rajasthan Diwas Today

As Rajasthan celebrates its 65^th Rajasthan Diwas this year on 30thMarch 2015, we tell you the magnificent journey of 64 years. What makes Rajasthan so unique is its colorful culture, rich heritage and one of the tourist hubs. The state dazzles in its beauty and every glimpse is captures with due importance.

1. FAIRS AND FESTIVALS

Rajasthan is a state which is known for the richness of traditions, and diverse culture. All the festivals are celebrated with joy, enthusiasm, zeal and zest. Some major fairs and festivals are Pushkar Fair, Jaisalmer Desert Fair, Gangaur, Teej, Marwar Festival, Holi and the list goes on.

2. CUISINES

One cannot leave Rajasthan without tasting its food which is known for it spiciness and rich flavor. Rajasthani cuisine is mainly vegetarian but can be put together in a variety of mouthwatering dishes. A sweet is a must which is complemented with every meal. Some relishing dishes are dal bati churma which is a well known delicacy all around the world. Every region in Rajasthan has its own speciality and taste.

3. FORTS, MONUMENTS & PALACES

Rajasthan is well known for its historically rich ‘Forts and Palaces’. The forts of Rajasthan tell stories about the kings and queens and their journey during their period of reign. Each and every fort and fortress has a unique and unparalleled story behind it. Some monuments of Rajasthan are well recognized due to recognition by UNESCO, namely – Jantar Mantar (Jaipur), Kumbhalgarh fort, etc.

4. FOLK MUSIC AND DANCES

The folk music and dance are important part of our culture and thus performed at every occasion, may it be a birth of a new born, anniversary or a welcome to the new season. The famous dance form of Rajasthan is Kalbelia, Terahtaali, Ghoomar, Chari, etc. Though dance is not the only art, music is considered important in the state of Rajasthan.

5. WILDLIFE

Rajasthan is an abode to a number of species. It is known for diverse flora and fauna. Rajasthan lying in a desert region and having a varied topography is a home to various species. The Ranthambore National Park and Sariska Tiger Reserve are well known wildlife sanctuaries in this dry- arid region.

6. HAND BLOCK PRINTING & BLUE POTTERY

Rajasthan is famous for its art and craft. Hand block printing, especially Bagru pint with floral and leaf motifs are seen and worn by a large number. Another recognized traditional art is of blue pottery, which has its origins from Rajasthan in India. In it the color blue and its shades are kept as the base color. Lehariya is also a style which originated from the land of Rajasthan.

7. MUSEUMS

Museums are built to showcase the in-depth history of a place and to know about its culture. The museums of Rajasthan throw limelight to its rich heritage and varied, and diversified culture. Rajasthan is known worldwide for 1^st silver museum in the world, situated in Udaipur. Not to forget the oldest museum of the state- Albert Hall, Jaipur is known for its rare articles. The other museums include- Government Museum in Jodhpur & Ajmer, Maharaja Sawai Mansingh Museum in Jaipur, etc.

Glimpses of Amer By Night

The amazing news of night tourism being inaugurated intrigued us to go and enjoy the glory of Amer during night. It was a mesmerizing sight to behold when we first saw the magnificent Amer Fort all illuminated in the glory of night!

The fascinating beauty of Amer Fort for night tourism added a new dimension to tourism in the city. With beautiful placement of lights to enhance the visual display of the monument and its places, was quite an experience not only for foreigners but also domestic tourists who came to see the Amer Fort at night. Amer By Night was definitely an attraction.

Here’s a glance at ‘Amer by night’ which illuminates vibrant hues at Jaleb Chowk, Diwan-e-Aam, Mansingh Mahal , Baradhari , Sattais kacheri and Sheesh Mahal.

Jaleb Chowk

Sattais Kacheri

Diwan-e-Aam

Diwan-e-Aam

Sheesh Mahal

Baradhari

For the night tourism, Amer Fort opens at 07.00 pm to 10.00 pm every evening.

Night Tourism at Amber Fort inaugurated

The magical epitome of grandeur Amber Fort under the sun light during day is a must visit place for tourists in Jaipur. The fort would now turn even more fascinating and enticing with the launch of night tourism officially beginning from today i.e. February 21, 2015.  After placing the lights and fixtures in the fort, the department of tourism would finally launch “Amber by night,” from Tonight.

 

The monument that regularly shuts at 5:30 pm would now remain open for night tourism at extended time i.e. from 7pm till 10 pm. This can be also extended depending on the response it will get from the public and tourists. For the night tourism, the Jaleb Chowk, Diwan-e-Aam, Mansingh Mahal and Sheesh Mahal have been illuminated with glorious colourful lights.

The introductory ticket price for the same would be Rs 100 for both domestic as well as foreign tourist. Enjoy the magnificence of Amber fort amid the glory of night!

Increased Elephant Rides to Amer Fort Jaipur

There is something enchanting and delighting about elephant rides in Rajasthan that transform you into a regal era of Maharajas when they used to commute with pride on these adorned elephant backs.  Have you ever wondered how overwhelming riding on a huge elephant back is? It really makes us feel like a king of some dynasty or a Royal!!

The Elephant Safari at Amer Fort Jaipur offers this fabulous experience to the tourists in Jaipur. And now there is good news too…

With the increased influx of tourists in Jaipur the elephant rides at Amer fort will be increased to 5 rounds from  October 05, 2014 and the rides will take place between 7.00 am to 11.30 am and 3.30 pm to 5 pm in the evening.

Now, enjoy the elephant rides up to the Amer Fort for as much time you want!!

Amer Fort – The Saga of Magnificent Architecture and Culture

When we talk about Jaipur then it is not possible that we could ignore the Amer fort. It is undoubtedly the most beautiful fort and the pride of Jaipur!!  Amber fort, also known as Amber Palace boasts of an artistic grandeur and structural expertise. It is a reminiscent of the bravery and courage of the mighty Rajputs, who had played a remarkable role in the history of medieval India.

Crowning the crest of a hill, Amber Fort offers a panoramic view of Maota Lake and the historic old town at the base of the hill, which was the early seat of the Amber kings before they made the fort their capital.

The main entrance to the historic Amber Fort is through the imposing Suraj Pol, so called because it faces the direction of the rising sun, the Kachhawaha family emblem. The gate leads into a huge courtyard, Jaleb Chowk, lined on three sides with souvenir and refreshment shops. A flight of steps leads to the Shila Devi Temple, which has silver doors; silver oil lamps, grand pillars carved to look like banana trees, and contain the Kachhawaha family deity, a stone image of the goddess Kali. The next courtyard is the Diwan-i-Aam, the space for public audience. Near it is the Sattais Katcheri, a colonnade of 27 pillars, where scribes once sat to record revenue petitions.

The magnificent Ganesh Pol is the gateway to three pleasure palaces, each with special features, built around a Mughal-style garden, Aram Bagh. Maota Lake, which provided water to the fort, is surrounded by two exquisite gardens. The Kesar Kyari Bagh has start-shaped flower beds once planted with saffron, flowers, while Dilaram Bagh, built in 1568 as a resting place for Akbar on his way to Ajmer, is a clever pun on the name of its architect, Dilaram. A small archeological Museum is located nearby. The farthest and oldest end of the fort was converted into the zenana, with screens and covered balconies for the seclusion of the royal ladies in purdah. Faint traces of frescoes are still visible on the walls. In the centre of the courtyard is a pavilion with 12 pillars, the Baradari.

This rambling Palace depicts the true lifestyle of the gutsy Rajputs who are better known for their radical, audacious, volatile and decadent behavior. One among the best hill top palaces, amber palace presents a curious blend of Muslim and Hindu architectural design. An aide memoir of the yester years, this palace is a redolent of creativeness of the artisans of ancient time.

Recently, two major developments have taken place at Amber fort. A very old tunnel to connect Amber Fort and adjoining Jaigarh Fort is now opened for public along with the electric cab facility for the tourists. Besides, Elephant rides to fort, sound & light shows and cultural evenings have always been a favorite among the visitors.

Certainly, Amber Fort, is one of the few places in India where the entry fee is worth it with never ending, consisting of a maze of rooms, tiny and grand!!  Spectacularly set within surrounding rugged hills and dotted with majestic architecture, Amber Mahal is one of the best places to visit on your trip to Jaipur.

Tunnel between Amber Fort and Jaigarh Fort opened!

An eighteenth century tunnel connecting Amber Palace and Jaigarh Fort, two major attractions in Rajasthan’s capital city, was inaugurated bi Tourism Minister Bina kak and Princess Diya Kumari on Sunday and thrown open for tourists.  The path along the tunnel has been made motor-able. To facilitate the tourists to reach Jaigarh, battery operated golf carts will be operated.

Photo Courtesy Bina Kak

The tunnel was believed to have been constructed as a defence mechanism. In case of an attack on Amber Palace, the royal family, noblemen and others could be evacuated undetected from the palace to the fort which was well defended by the army. This 325 metre-long tunnel was discovered during excavation a year ago.

The tunnel would give a royal feel of the era while going through the tunnel and it would be an adventurous  trip for the tourists, this season!!

Five Rajasthan monuments recommended for World Heritage status

Five monuments from Rajasthan have been recommended to UNESCO for the world heritage status. These five monuments are Ranthambore Fort, Gagrone Fort Jhalawar fort, Chittorgarh Fort, Amber Fort and Kumbhalgarh Fort.

Kumbhalgarh Fort

Amber Fort

Gagron Fort

Chittorgarh-Fort

Ranthambore Fort

The final decision for the approval of these sites will be taken up at the World Heritage Session to be held at Saint Petersburgfrom June 24 to July 7, 2012.

All the five monuments have unique features. The Kumbhalgarh Fort in Rajsamand has the second-longest continuous wall after the Great Wall of China, Gagron Fort in Jhalawar is the only fort which is surrounded by water on four sides. Amber Fort in Jaipur is known for a distinct architectural style which has both Mughal and Rajput influence. Chittorgarh Fort is famous for its historicity. And Sawai Madhopur Fort in Ranthambhore is totally surrounded by forests.

We anticipate that all the magnificent sites get their world heritage status.