The Jaigarh fort is the most spectacular of the three-hilltop forts that overlook Jaipur. In Mughal times, the Jaipur region was a major weapon-producing centre for the Mughal and Rajput rulers. Also known as the fort of victory, Jaigarh Fort is a rugged structure built in 1726 by Sawai Jai Singh. It was the royal treasury for several years. The fort is perched on a cliff and is surrounded by huge battlements with inside walkways offering stunning views on all sides. The World's largest cannon on wheel, Jaivan, is to be found here. Also the water supply of this fort and its storage reservoirs are a marvel of engineering. The fort could withstand long sieges without too much difficulty thanks to the ingenious water supply arrangements. The museum of artefacts tells the story of the Jaigarh Fort and its vast well-protected treasury. There is an interesting collection of paintings, photographs and coins, and other things like a balance for measuring explosives and several containers including a 16th century coin container. Don't miss the royal kitchen and dining hall; after all food and hospitality were also very much a part of Rajput agenda.
Of the Jaipur's three forts, Jaigarh is perhaps the most motivating. It does not have those delicate structures or palaces like that of Amber but if you want a quick look at a hard-core fortress, this is it. It was built between the 15th and the 18th century, and stands 15 km from Jaipur, amidst rock-strewn, thorn-scrub covered hills, its forbidding stone ramparts are visible from the Jaipur town. A steep road goes up to the main gate, the Dungar Darwaza, from where the view is stupendous.the Jaigarh Fort include gardens, a granary, beautiful palace rooms for the royal family and temples for the fort's inhabitants Entrance fee to Jaigarh is Rs. 20 for foreign tourists and Rs 10 for Indian tourists. Jaigarh Fort can be reached either by motorable road leading to Nahargarh Fort or on foot from Amber Fort. |
