Ever seen a kid experiencing something what he dreamt of? The excitement and gleaming eyes say it all that yes I finally made it!!! Same were my feelings when I got a chance to visit the magnificent Amer Fort in Jaipur.
I know for many it’s not a big deal but for a person like me, who is a big Bollywood ka keeda (Bollywood Fan) and desires to explore all those exotic location and huge set portrayed in period drama’s marvelously helmed by directors such as Sanjay Leela Bhansali or Ashutosh Gowarikar, it was like a dream come true.
Okay, enough blabbering about my dreams as this is not the agenda. Yeah, my aim is to inspire you all to visit this lovely place at least once and trust me I am not getting any royalty from the Jaipur Tourism
Its charisma left me overwhelmed right from the beginning. Yup, the moment I saw a glimpse of it, from my cab, I was like “OMG!!! It’s so huge and beautiful”. The lake flowing beside it, and the pigeons flying in heap made it look even more magical.
However, for a moment I was in a state of shock looking its height thinking, “do I have a walk till there?” but soon I was relieved listening to the kind words of the cabby, who said he will drop me close to the fort and from there I would have to walk less. Aaah, what a relief! I wonder how did the king and his people managed???
Soon after I reached near the huge entrance of the fort, I felt like some sort of festivity was going on. No, really. Lots of vendors there were selling the souvenirs of the magical land and tourists were going gaga over the handicraft showcased by them. And I got to mention the melodious Ikatara (single string instrument) sound which I can still remember. Musicians playing it really loved their art, as none demanded any money in return but it was your wish if you liked the soulful melody played by them you can reward them.
Now coming back to the grandeur of the quila (fort), which reflected a perfect blend of Rajputana and Mughal architecture! And I must admit it, that the walls look still lively and have not become ancient ruins.
Built in the 16th century by Raja Maan Singh, the fort has four separate entrances. The main entry of the fort is through, Suraj Pol or the Sun Gate (probably because it faced the east).
To recall you all the glimpse of the grand quila, let me take the name of a movie which will draw before you all the clear picture of the majestic fort- Jodha Akbar. Yeah, maybe now I can convince you in terming it one of the most attractive monuments.
Made up of pale yellow and pink sandstones and marbles, the fort has four courtyards namely Diwan-e-Aam, Diwan-e-Khas, Jaleb Chowk (this is the main chowk, where you will reach soon you enter the fort) and the Jai Mandir (the hall of victory).
Once you are done, walking through the courtyards don’t forget to take a glimpse of the Siladevi Temple and yes, from Jaleb Chowk, you will see staircases which will lead you to the main palace.
Though, expressing the beauty and grandeur of the palace in words is a big deal but still I tried. The other attractions there is the elephant ride, which can make you feel like a royal if you try it and the 1135 AD restaurant in the Fort, where you can enjoy food in regal ambiance.
Hmmm, am again lost in the magic of its beauty!!! I can bet you’ll love to be there and would also thank me for suggesting a place like it, so give it a shot.
