Jaigarh Fort

Jaigarh Fort facts

• Location- Aravali range, Amber fort, Rajasthan

• Built- Sawai Jai Singh II

• Constructed- 1796

• Controlled by- Government of Rajasthan

• Best time to visit- October to March

• Timings- 9.00 am to 4.45 pm

• Entry fee-Rs 10 for students

Rs 15 for others

Out of the forts in Jaipur the Jaigarh fort is certainly the most interesting of the lot. It is certainly not the prettiest in the clan. With his hardcore exteriors the fort was once the bastion of security for both the Jaipur and Ajmer. Noted as the fort of victory the ramparts of the strong rock haven monument are visible from almost every side of the beautiful city of Jaipur. The monument has been an inspiration for poets and writers and tourist are also in awe of the mysteries that surrounds the fort. These mysteries and rumors surrounding grew louder that the fort was sealed for seven long years following rumors that an enormous treasure was buried under the vault under deep reservoirs.

Needless to say the rumors surrounding to a certain extent can be backed by history. Mansingh the II and his successors are said to have hoarded gold jewels and other booty in the Jaigarh. To fortify their loot they hired the local Minas who fiercely guarded and protected the area. Each new Kachhawaha king was allowed only once to enter the place and pick up a single piece of the pile. The Indian Government too tried the retrieve the treasure. However there were thoroughly unsuccessful despite having dug the three water tanks. While there are some who argue that everything was used there are other who say the treasure is still hidden in the fort.

True to the dictum of the Holy Scripture, that is the Puranas the fort is indeed the strength of the king. The Jaigarh fort was monumental remained as beacon of the Rajput era.

Main attractions of the Fort

• Jaivana (Large cannon) - A major attraction of the Jaigarh fort is the Jaivana. The world’s largest cannon in wheels. Jaivana was constructed in Jaigarh’s foundry in 1720.The barrel of this cannon weighs a staggering 50 tons. According to popular belief the Jaivana has been fired only once but according to and that too the ball fell about 35km away. The impact of the fire was so harsh the place where the cannon fell formed into a lake. Actual inspection states that indeed the cannon was used a couple of times. This remarkable defence mechanism had the propensity to kill and harm. This was a portent weapon that warded off the prying enemy eyes. There is even a notice here that proudly reads “because of strong defence system, management and foresightedness of the rulers. The enemies did not dare to set foot in the area.

• Vijay Garh- The most important part of the fort is Vijaygarh or the armory of the fort. The armory has huge collection of swords and weapons and small arms including time bombs. The interesting artifacts of this armory include five keys big wine and oil jars. There is also an outline map of the kingdom of Amber in 1681.

• Jaigarh Cannon Foundry- This cannon foundry built by Bhagwan Das in the 16^th century is one of the oldest surviving medival foundries in the world. Complete with furnace, lathe tools and a rare collection of cannons that are preserved even to this day. It is said that Bhagwan son Mansingh the first learnt the secret of making gun powder. He later served as the commander in chief of Akbar’s army. It was at this time that cannons were made in Jaigarh to which the Mughals strongly objected. They wanted the secret to themselves. Especially considering the fact that these weapons have caused the downfall of the Rajputs.

• Diya Burj- the seven stored Diya Burj is the highest point. From this one can get a panoramic view of the entire. The highlight of the monument is the water supply and the storage system that illustrates a marvel of town planning. The scarcity of water has been a problem that has long been faced by individuals living in this region. There are also several temples in the fort.

• Museum- The museum houses some of the distinctive artifacts of these forts. These artifacts include an interesting collection of paintings, photographs and coins belonging to the royal era.

• The Palace Complex- The palace complex was built by various kings during the course of two centuries. The usual structures inside the palace complex include Diwani-i- Aam (hall of public audience) where the ruler is said to have his public audience with the people of the region. An room is the Khilbat Niwas (Commanders Meeting Hall) where the commanders and defence officer of the rulers armed forces used to have their discussion and meetings. There is also Diwani- i-Khas where in king is said to have private audience with a few of his elect. There is laos the opened pillared hall called Subha Niwas. he luxury suites are very much there – the breezy Aram Mandir (Rest House) and the 16th century Vilas Mandir (Pleasure House). The former has a lovely garden attached to it. It was in the charming courtyard of the latter that the royal ladies had their little parties, janani majlis. The pavilions surrounding the courtyard, with a maze of passages, offer excellent views of Amber. 

• Laxmi Vilas Palace- The Laxmi Vilas Palace is beautiful experience with some lovely frescos blue frescos and remains of lovely and old Mughal gardens. It also has a little theatre where the kings used to have their entertainment. The puppet show is an attractive feature of the mall. The old tradition of puppetry is kept alive by the artisans. The puppetry show is a must visit for tourists.