મંગળવાર, 14 ફેબ્રુઆરી, 2012

Gwalior Fort

GWALIOR FORT



The Gwalior fort spreads out over an area of 3 square km, surrounded by concrete walls of sandstone. The Gwalior fort encloses three temples, six palaces and numerous water tanks. At a point of time Gwalior fort was regarded as North and Central India's most invincible fortress. The fort was built by Raja Man Singh Tomar in the 15th century. The fort of Gwalior has seen many ups and downs of history. In the course of almost five hundred years, the Gwalior fort went from one ruler to another. 

From the Tomars it passed to the Mughals, Marathas and the British. The Gwalior fort finally went to the Scindias from the British. The Teli-ka-Mandir is the most famous of all the temples of the Gwalior fort. This temple was built in the Dravidian style shrine and is notable for its generously sculpted exterior. The Saas-Bahu Temples (two pillared temples which stand next to each other, one larger than the other) are also fascinating.

The Man Singh Palace is one of the most amazing palaces of the Gwalior fort. It was built by Man Singh in the 15th century. It was in the same palace the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb imprisoned and later murdered his brother Murad. Then there is gruesome Jauhar Kund, where the women of the harem burnt themselves to death after the defeat of the king of Gwalior in 1232. Other significant palaces within the Gwalior Fort include the Karan Palace, the Jahangir Mahal, the Shah Jahan Mahal and the Gujri Mahal (built by Man Singh for his favorite queen, Mrignayani).



If there is one thing you can’t escape in Gwalior, it’s the fort. Perched high on a rocky massif, the imposing fort with its blue tiled palace is visible from each and every corner of the city of Gwalior. Regarded as North and Central India’s most impregnable fortress, the Gwalior Fort was built by Raja Man Singh Tomar in the 15th century. In the five hundred years since then, the Gwalior Fort has changed hands many times- it has been held by the Tomars, Mughals, Marathas and British, who finally handed it over to the Scindias. With a turbulent and pretty eventful past, the Gwalior Fort spreads out over an area of 3 square km and is built at a vantage height of 100 m above the city. The fort is bounded by solid walls of sandstone, which encloses three temples, six palaces and a number of water tanks. The southern path of the fort is bounded by rock faces with intricate carvings of the Jain tirthankars. As you enter the fort, you’ll see lots more to impress and interest you. Among the Gwalior Fort’s most prominent palaces is the amazingly ornate Man Singh Palace, built by Man Singh towards the end of the 15th century. This is an impressive structure that clings to the very edge of the fort, its façade embellished with blue ceramic tiles. The palace of Raja Man Singh forms the backdrop for an excellent ‘son-et-lumiere’ (sound and light) show held here every evening. It is amongst the best in the country and vividly recreates an era and brings to life the history of the Fort and the love story of Raja Man Singh and his Queen Mrignayani. Within the fort also lies the Scindia School, a famous residential school for boys established by the erstwhile Maharaja of Gwalior over one hundred years ago. The Gujari Mahal is a 15th century palace built by Raja Man Singh for his beloved Gujar (tribal) Queen, Mrignayani. It is now an archaeological museum with an impressive collection of exhibits some dating back to the 1st century AD. Of the temples in the Gwalior Fort, the most famous are theTeli-ka-Mandir- a 9th century shrine towering to a height of over 100 ft. It is built in a unique blend of South Indian architecture with North Indian decorative motifs and is notable for its profusely sculpted exterior On the eastern side of the fort are the twin Saas-Bahu Temples, commonly believed to be dedicated to mother-in-law and daughter-in-law but, in fact, dedicated to ‘Sahasrabahu’, ‘the thousand-armed’ Lord Vishnu. Both these temples made for a mother-in-law and daughter-in-law are richly embellished examples of 11th century temple architecture. The Chaturbhuj Mandir, a Vaishnavite shrine dating back to the 9th century also lies in the fort. Other palaces within the Gwalior Fort which are worth seeing include the Karan Palace, the Jahangir Mahal, and the Shahjahan Mahal. The Mughal emperor Babar referred to the Gwalior Fort as 'the pearl amongst fortresses in India' and although you may beg to differ, you will probably agree that this, the dominating feature of Gwalior’s skyline, is definitely a citadel worth seeing.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the place is from autumn of October to the spring at the end of March. The monsoon months can also be enjoyed as the environment becomes green and the air is fresh and cool.

Trivia

Th4e Man Singh Palace, despite its picture-pretty appearance, has a somewhat gory history. It is believed that Mughal emperor Aurangzeb imprisoned and later murdered his brother Murad here. Equally grisly is theJauhar Kund here, which marks the spot where the women of the harem burnt themselves to death after the defeat of the king of Gwalior in 1232.

Timing

The fort can be visited anytime between 9:30 A.M to 5:30 P.M. Entry fee- For Indian citizens the fee is Rs. 5 per head whereas for foreign tourist it is Rs. 100 per head. The entry for children below the age of 15 years of age is absolutely free.


સોમવાર, 13 ફેબ્રુઆરી, 2012

RED FORT OF DELHI

RED FORT OF DELHI






The famous red fort of Delhi is the land mark of historic monuments. The Facts and history of Red fort of Delhi still reminds you the ancient history of Delhi. Visit to Lal Qila of Delhi to see the master architecture of famous red fort monument of Delhi.



The Red Fort of Delhi is one of the most historical forts in India. This fort was constructed with many unique functions in mind. It also features a very large size and a notable appearance that makes it very distinguishable. In facts, the history about Red Fort of Delhi still holds some value to the people of India to this day.

The Red Fort or Lal Qila of Delhi was built in the seventeenth century over the course of nearly a decade. Shah Jahan, a Mughal emperor, ordered the construction of this fort in Delhi in 1638. The construction was completely finished in 1648. The fort was built in the northeastern part of Shahjahanabad, a city that soon became known as Old Delhi. A large moat was also built to surround the fort.

The red name of the fort comes from the materials used in its construction. The red sandstone used in the construction process helped to give it its unique appearance. The red is relatively muted in terms of its style but is still very easy to notice.

The size of the Red Fort of Delhi is very substantial. It has a perimeter of around 2.4 km with a height of 33 meters on its city size and 18 meters around the river. This makes the fort one of the largest spots in all of Delhi to visit.

There are a number of notable sections in the Red Fort. The Diwan-i-Aam, which is also known as the Hall of Public Audiences, is a spot where the emperor would hear from the common people in India. This area featured a series of gold columns with a large rail that separated the people from the emperor.


The Diwan-i-Khas, or Hall of Selective Audiences, is a spot that is made with marble and various stones. This area was used for private meetings between the emperor and others that the emperor wanted to talk with.

There are several other great points to see. The Hammams were a series of baths that were used by people in the royal family. The Shahi Burj was a spot where the emperor would work in private at. His office could be found in this specific space.


The Rang Mahal, which was referred to as the Palace of Colors, is an especially impressive spot in that it features a large pool area and a very detailed ceiling. The spot featured a large grouping of mirrors and gilded turrets at one point in time. This area was used as a spot where the emperor's wives would live in.

Naqqar Khana, which is also known as the Drum House, is the last spot to look at. This area was at the entrance point of the palace. It featured music that was played at specific times in the day alongside a large gate. People who visited the fort would get off of their elephants at this gate.

The information about Red Fort of Delhi is still in use to this day. It is mostly a tourist attraction that is open every day expect Monday. It is actually located right next to the Jama Masjid and the Raj Ghat, Memorial of Mahatma Gandhi.

The Indian Prime Minister uses the fort as the site of the annual Independence Day address. This address is held on 15 August of each year.


These features are what make the Red Fort of Delhi one of the most appealing sites for people to visit when in Delhi. This fort features a massive size and all sorts of unique sites where many things in the past took place. These are all points that make the fort one of the most impressive ones in all of Delhi.

Design & Structures of Red Fort
There are 15 distinct structures within the fort with the first being the Lahore Gate and the last one the Moti Masjid.

The Lahore Gate : The Lahore Gate of the palace is veiled by the Babar added by Aurangzeb, a Mughal emperor. The gate is from where the Prime Minister addresses the nation and unfurls the National Flag on August 15, Independence Day.

Chatta Chowk : The entrance of the Gate leads through a long covered bazaar called the Chatta Chowk. From Chatta Chowk follows the Naqqar Khana(Drum Room) also called Naubat Khana or the Welcome Room, which earlier formed part of a square enclosure with apartments for the umrah (Nobles) on duty. It was at this point that everyone other than the Emperor had to dismount from their elephants and walk towards the magnificent Diwan-e-Am(hall of public audience) where the Emperor used to listen to the grievances of the common man. 

Naqqar Khana : The Naqqar Khana is 49 feet high with an open arched hall at the top which served as a music gallery from where the strains of music filtered down to welcome the Emperor or to bid him a safe journey. The War Memorial Museum is housed on the first floor. The Diwan-e-Am is built of red sandstone and is set atop an impressive plinth. The southwest and northwest corners of the pavilion are articulated by small chhattris. 

Diwan-i-Am : The Fort also houses the Diwan-i-Am or "the Hall of Public Audiences", where the Emperor would sit and hear complaints of the common folk. His alcove in the wall was marble-paneled, and was set with precious stones, many of which were looted, after the Mutiny of 1857.


Diwan-i-Khas : The Diwan-i-Khas is "the Hall of Private Audiences", where the Emperor held private meetings. This hall is made of marble, and its center-piece used to be the "Peacock Throne", which was carried away to Iran by Nadir Shah in 1739. Today, the Diwan-i-Khas is only a pale shadow of its original glory, yet the famous Persian couplet inscribed on its wall reminds us of its former magnificence: "If on earth be an eden on bliss, it is this, it is this, none but this." 

Red Fort Agra

Red Fort Agra





Mughal palace architecture reached its peak with the construction of the Red Fort at Agra. Built over many centuries under different regimes, it is the product of many different architects who each worked on only a small portion of the whole. To our eyes, this gives the Red Fort a rather eclectic feel that is unified only by the ubiquitious red sandstone that gives the fortress its name.
The Red Fort began its life in the 10th century as a simple mud and brick fortress along the banks of the Yamuna river. Under Akbar (1564-1570s) of the Mughal dynasty it was rebuilt along the lines of its predecessor, which accounts for its irregular outer walls. Originally intended as a fortress, the site was partially converted into a palace during the reign of Shah Jahan, who lived in the fortress and died there - a prisoner of his own son.
The residential and defensive portions of the fortress can be described separately. The outer walls, built during Akbar's time, are penetrated by two gates, called the Amar Singh and the Delhi gate respectively. The Delhi gate, to the west, was originally the main entrance although the southern gate, the Amar Singh, is used today. Both gates are sheathed in red sandstone and consist of an enormous facade flanked by twin towers. Entry is on the diagonal, and to foil invaders, visitors were originally forced to negotiate several right-angled turns before reaching the gate.


The interior of the fortress is largely empty but for a row of residential dwellings facing the river. Built during Shah Jahan's time and after, these luxurious structures drew the resources of an entire empire and were worked on by craftsman of many different nationalities. The earliest of these dwellings, the Jahangiri Mahal, was built by Akbar as a women's quarters. It is predominantly Hindu in character and was probably inspired by the Gwalior Man Mandir, a palace built earlier in the century.
The Jehangir palace was also built by Akbar, for his favorite son.



રવિવાર, 12 ફેબ્રુઆરી, 2012

TAJ MAHAL


TAJ MAHAL


HISTORY OF TAJ MAHAL


The Taj Mahal of Agra is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, for reasons more than just looking magnificent. It's the history of Taj Mahal that adds a soul to its magnificence: a soul that is filled with love, loss, remorse, and love again. Because if it was not for love, the world would have been robbed of a fine example upon which people base their relationships. An example of how deeply a man loved his wife, that even after she remained but a memory, he made sure that this memory would never fade away. This man was the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, who was head-over-heels in love with Mumtaz Mahal, his dear wife. She was a Muslim Persian princess (her name Arjumand Banu Begum before marriage) and he was the son of the Mughal Emperor Jehangir and grandson of Akbar the Great. It was at the age of 14 that he met Mumtaz and fell in love with her. Five years later in the year 1612, they got married.

Mumtaz Mahal, an inseparable companion of Shah Jahan, died in 1631, while giving birth to their 14th child. It was in the memory of his beloved wife that Shah Jahan built a magnificent monument as a tribute to her, which we today know as the "Taj Mahal". The construction of Taj Mahal started in the year 1631. Masons, stonecutters, inlayers, carvers, painters, calligraphers, dome-builders and other artisans were requisitioned from the whole of the empire and also from Central Asia and Iran, and it took approximately 22 years to build what we see today. An epitome of love, it made use of the services of 22,000 laborers and 1,000 elephants. The monument was built entirely out of white marble, which was brought in from all over India and central Asia. After an expenditure of approximately 32 million rupees (approx US $68000), Taj Mahal was finally completed in the year 1653.

It was soon after the completion of Taj Mahal that Shah Jahan was deposed by his own son Aurangzeb and was put under house arrest at nearby Agra Fort. Shah Jahan, himself also, lies entombed in this mausoleum along with his wife. Moving further down the history, it was at the end of the 19th century that British Viceroy Lord Curzon ordered a sweeping restoration project, which was completed in 1908, as a measure to restore what was lost during the Indian rebellion of 1857: Taj being blemished by British soldiers and government officials who also deprived the monument of its immaculate beauty by chiseling out precious stones and lapis lazuli from its walls. Also, the British style lawns that we see today adding on to the beauty of Taj were remodeled around the same time. Despite prevailing controversies, past and present threats from Indo-Pak war and environmental pollution, this epitome of love continuous to shine and attract people from all over the world.


Bandhavgarh Fort


Bandhavgarh Fort



Bandhavgarh fort is considered as one of the oldest forts in India, which dates back to as long as 2500Bc. You need to go trekking for at least one hour up to the fort but is well worth. One the way to the fort, you discover the monuments that have remained unfazed and unexplored so far. It is advisable to take a guide as many monuments or statues lie away from the main path.
Three small temples that are from the 12th century are also worth visiting besides watching the avatars. Although the temples are deserted, but the fort is still used for worshipping. One of the greatest saints of the 16th century, Kabir once lived and meditated here. The natural ramparts lend a breathtaking view of the scenery around the fort. You can also see vulture around the cliff that also draw blue rock thrushes and carg martins.
You need permission from the Maharaja of Rewa to visit the fort as it still belongs to him. The permission can be obtained locally and a trip to the fort makes the visit to Bandhavgarh complete. The resort staff carries your lunch while trekking up to the fort but it is chargeable.
Bandhavgarh park may be a new one but it is a very strange land with an ancient history. It has remained a center of human activity since early 2000 years. You can find references to this fort from ancient history books like Narad-Panch Ratra as well as the Shiv Purana. According to the legend, Rama stayed at the Bandhavgarh fort on his way back home after defeating Ravana. 
Bandhavgarh fort is believed to be engineered by two monkey architects who built the bridge between the island of Lanka and the main Indian land. He later handed over the fort to his brother Lakshman who became to be known as the “Bandhavdhish” or the “Lord of the Fort”. He is till date regularly worshipped as god at the temple in the Fort.


NEEMRANA FORT PALACE

NEEMRANA FORT PALACE





Fort Palace - Built since 1464 AD, Neemrana Fort-Palace is India's oldest heritage resort. It is also Rajasthan's closest palace from New Delhi, situated at 122 kms. on the Delhi-Jaipur highway - only 100 kms from Delhi's international airport. Sited on a majestic plateau, concealed in a horseshoe formation of the billion year old Aravalli ranges, Neemrana became the third capital of the descendants of Prithviraj Chauhan III, who was killed in battle by Mohammad Ghori in 1192 AD. This picturesque site was chosen by Raja Rajdeo and Neemrana derived its name from a brave local chieftain Nimola Meo, who when defeated by the Chauhans, pleaded that his name be given to his lost kingdom.
The property covers 25 acres/10 hectares and the stepped palaces of this architectural jewel cut into the hillside to sprawl over 3 acres/1.2 hectares and rises to 10 levels commanding the most splendid views. From 1986, the ruins of this Fort-Palace have been sensitively restored and reconstructed. The rooms are furnished with an eclectic mix of traditional Indian and colonial furniture, antiques and object d'art. Most rooms have private balconies or terraces and the loos are designed to have views!

Meherangarh Fort

Meherangarh Fort






The Meherangarh Fort, situated on a 125 m high hill, is the most impressive and formidable fort in Rajasthan. The construction of the fort was begun by Maharaja Rao Jodha in 1459 and was completed by Maharaja Jaswant Singh (1638-78). 

The fort originally had seven gates (pols). There is a first gate with spikes to prevent attack from elephants. The other gates include the Jayapol, built by Maharaja Man Singh in 1806, following his victory over the armies of Jaipur and Bikaner. The Fatehpol or victory gate was erected by Maharaja Ajit Singh in 1907 to commemorate his victory over the Mughals. The last gate is the Lohapol or iron gate beside which there are 15 handprints, the “sati” marks of widows of Maharaja Man Singh who threw themselves upon his funeral pyre in 1843. 

The fort is still run by the Maharaja of Jodhpur. Inside the fort there are a series of courtyards and palaces. Some of these house a collection of folk music instruments, elephant howdahs, miniature paintings, furniture and costumes. At the end of the fort is the Chamunda temple, dedicated to a form of Goddess Durga. 







Jodhpur Mehrangarh Fort History is related to Rao Jodha. He became the fifteenth Rathore ruler in 1458. One year after his accession, Jodha was advised to move his capital to a safer place. The one thousand years old Mandore fort was slowly and gradually deteriorating. This led to the foundation of Mehrangarh Fort.

Past of Mehrangarh fort in Rajasthan, India has no mention of any seizure. The invincible fortifications are six meters thick. Some of the walls still bear cannon marks they had once withstood. Today this magnificent Jodhpur fort is a living testimony that recounts the chronicles and legends of Jodhpur's rich past.


Chittorgarh Fort, Chittorgarh

Chittorgarh Fort, Chittorgarh


ocated at the hilltop of the in Chittorgarh in Rajasthan, Chittorgarh Fort is one the biggest fort in Asia. It was built by Mauryans in the 7th century A.D. The exquisite fort stands 180mtrs high hill and covers an area of 700 acres. The magnificent fort has many palaces of interest that are exquisitely designed, carved and depicts the rich Rajput architecture. The fort is not only significant for Rajasthan but is for the entire region of North India. The magnificent fort has so many places of interest with in its precincts. Some of the most highlighted ones are Rana Kumbh Palace, Fateh Prakash Palace, Padmini Palace and the tower of Victory. Within the premises of the fort there is temples, big complex and Jain temples. The temples is dedicated to Meera one of the great devotee of Lord Krishna. The saga of Chittorgarh is ever green and is known to every one. Chittorgarh was attacked three times and the brave Rajput sacrifices their life to evict the enemies. Till date the glorious past of Chittorgarh in depicted by the marvelous forts and palace so the city. 

A tour to Chittorgarh allows one to explore the history. The interesting places there like Chitorgarh Fort and etc. reveal a lot of secrets hidden in the history of Rajasthan. Chittorgarh is pride & glory of Rajasthan, Chittaur echoes with the tales of romance and valour unique to the Rajput tradition. Chittorgarh ruinsA ruined citadel, where the royal past lives in its imposing forts, graceful palaces and spectacular chatris.This fortified settlement has been ravaged thrice and each time the outcome was ‘ Jauhar’ – when women and children immolated themselves on a huge funeral pyre while men donned in saffron robes of matyrdom rode out of the fort towards certain death. Alauddin Khilji was first to sack Chitaur in 1303 A.D. overpowered by a passionate desire to posses the regal beauty, queen padmini. Legend has it he saw her face in the reflection of a mirror and was struck by her mesemering beauty. But the noble queen preffered death to dishonour and committed ‘Jauhar’.
Prime Tourist Places in and around Chittorgarh
Chittorgarh Fort : chittorgarh fortIt is situated 631kms away from Delhi in the state of Rajasthan. The fort of Chittor thrills one’s heart with the reminiscence of the heroic deeds. The fort plainly known as Chittor was the capital of Mewar , it is spread over a rocky hill of about 152kms,constructed in around 7th century by Chitrang maurya.
The fort has seven gates and are named as Padan Pol, Bhairon Pol, Hanuman Pol, Ganesh Pol, Jodla Pol, Laxman Pol and the main entry gate of Lord Ramas that is Ram Pol Within the fort, a circular road provides access to all gates and monument located within the fort walls. All the gateways to the fort have been built as massive stone structures. The main gate of the fort is called the surajpol meaning the Gate of Sun. The doors of the gates with pointed arches are reinforced to fend off canon shots and elephants. The fort once boasted of 84 water bodies, but unfortunately is left with only 22 now. These water bodies are in the form of ponds, wells and step wells.
Rana Kumbha’s PalaceRana Kumbha PalaceThe fort was the brain-child of Rana Kumbha, hence his palace is understandably the oldest structures here. Enter the palace through the Suraj Pol, to the saqbha or council chamber bordered by a Ganesha Temple and the Zenana. The palace complex also houses smaller chambers, which might have been used by the nobles in the king’s court. The central courtyard is the site where Rani Padmini committed jauhar, along with the other women of Chittorgarh, to save them from falling in the hands of the enemy. The palace has intricately carved canopied balconies and a stable-like structure, which must have housed horses and elephants, but is today in ruins.
Fateh Prakash PalaceFateh Prakash PalaceLocated near Rana Kumbha’s Palace, this was home to Maharana Fateh Singh. One part of this palace has been converted to museum and houses interesting articles including swords, utensils and royal garments for public viewing. Open from: 10.00 am-4.00 pm (Friday closed)
Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary: Located in the Bassi Village, almost 25 kms from Chittorgarh, you would view a profusion of panthers, wild boars, antelopes, mongooses and several migratory birds. If you intimate in advance, you could also enjoy a wildlife tour on horseback.
Victory Tower VijayStambha chittorgarhThe victory tower or vijay Stambha is the symbol of Chittor and a particularly bold expression triumph, was established by Rana Khumba between 1458 and 1468 to commemorate his victory over Mohammed Shah I Khilji, the Sultan of Malwa, in 1440 AD. It is approximately 122ft long and has a narrow circular staircase of about 157 steps, consists of 8 floors. The dome which was added later to the building got damaged because of the lightning and was repaired around in 19th century.
Bhainsrorgarh Fortbhainsrorgarh fort chittorgarhThis is credited to be one of the forts, which was never conquered. Located on a 230 ft high rock, its accessibility makes it impregnable. The fort is accessed only by one route, while the remaining three sides open to precarious drops. The fort still houses the original family of Baroli and is not open to the public.
Menal: Located 78 kms from Chittor, this is termed as Little Khajuraho. Of course erotic carvings are not as profuse as in Khajuraho, but if you visit the Shiva Temple here, you could see erotic carvings of gods and goddesses adorning the walls.
Kunwar Pade ka Mahal: This palace housed the prince of Chittor and is the first instance of use of S-shaped arches in Rajput architecture. These arches are also found in the Palace of Rana Ratan Singh, as well as in most temples and step wells constructed later. A special feature of the Kunwar Palace is the excessive use of blue tiles.
Rani Padmini’s PalaceRani Padmini Palace chittorgarhThis three storeyed white building is surrounded by a pool and crowned by carved chhatris. This is also the historical site where Allauddin got the glimpse of Rani Padmini that set him off towards attacking the fort in order to possess her. Located within the palace complex is Bhimlat Kund, an artificial tank built in memory of the Pandava brother, Bhima.
Kirti Stambha : Kirti Stambha chittorgarhAlso known as the Tower of Fame , a 72ft high tower built on a 30 ft base with 4.6ft at the top. It was constructed by Bagherwal Jain merchant Jijaji rathod , is older and smaller than the Victory Tower. It is a six storey building, the top most floor consists of 12 columns and was built around 15th century.
Palaces of Jaimal and Patta: Jaimal and Patta were among the most renowned and strongest defenders of the Chittorgarh Fort. They resided in what was among the last structures to be constructed in Chittorgarh. These are not really palaces, but simple houses with minimally decorated facades and lack the opulence of the other palaces. Located a little away from these palaces is the three-storeyed now in ruins, Chonda House.
Kalika Mata Temple : Kalika-Mata-Temple-chittorgarhAn extremely popular temple is the dedicated to the Mother Goddess. The temple has five chambers and the inner walls lack intricate carvings except those of lotus flowers. The inner sanctum has an image of the Sun God and the walls here have images of Chandra or the moon. Almost all carvings are dominated by themes of Surya surrounded by other deities. Similar to the Kalika Mata Temple.
Jain Temples : In the total of six Jain temples, the temple of Bhagwan Adinath is the largest and consists of 52 Devkulikas. The Digambar Jain Kirtstambha and the seven storied Kirtistambh are the famous two among them
Kumbhashyama Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The use of precious stones is abundant and images of gods, goddesses and the eight rulers adorn the walls. The 16th Century
Adbhutnath Temple shows unrefined images of gods. The main idol within is that of Lord Shiva as the Destroyer, made in wood and sporting three faces. The
Bhawani Temple, dedicated to the Tulja Goddess, patron deity of the Chittor tribes. Next to the temple is the tope khana, which still houses old cannons.
Meera templeMeera-Temple-ChittorgarhThe temple is dedicated to the mystic poetess Meerabai, and a devotee of Lord Krishna. Meera was born in Kurki village near Merta to Ratan Singh Rathors, and was married to Bhojraj son of Rana Sanga of Mewar. Legends say that she consumed poison set by Vikramaditya but nothing happended to her due to the blessings of Lord Krishna. Meerabai-Temple-ChittorgarhIn front of the temple is the cenotaph (chhatri) of Meera Bai’s Guru Shri Rai Das of Banaras, inside the cenotaph is carved a figure of five human bodies with one head, depicting that all castes are equal and even outcasts can attain God.


Nahargarh Forts, Jaipur

Nahargarh Forts, Jaipur




Nestled between the Nahargarh hills, Nahargarh Fort was built by Sawai Raja Jai Singh in 1734. The fort is one of the major tourist attractions of the city. Nahargarh fort was built by Sawai Raja Jai Singh and later some splendid additions were done by the successors of Sawai Raja Jai Singh. The fort was renovated in the 19th century and some splendid features were added to the magnificent fort. The older parts of the fort though have withered and lost its charm by the times but the new additions are charming and captivating till date.The Nahargarh Fort is exquisitely constructed. It was used as the retreat for the ladies of kings and maharajas. The women quarter or the Zenana deorhi are elegantly designed to impress women. The royal quarter Madhavendra Bhawan which spread over the fourth courtyard was specially designed by Maharaja Sawai Raja Jai Singh. There are 12 magnificent designed quarters with all the eminent facilities. Quarters are interlinked with kitchen, spacious corridors and fire place. The exquisitely designed quarters boost of the rich architectural beauty of Rajputana art and the taste of luxury of the Rajas and Maharajas of bygone era.Nahargarh Fort also known as the tiger fort has a legend related to it.




According to the local legend it is believed that the spirit of the Prince used to haunt the site of the fort. The spirit of the prince would not allow the workers and artisans to go to the construction site. Various religious prayers were performed by Tantrik to make the evil spirit satisfied. After performing several rituals, the spirit made an appearance and agreed to give up the evil activities once the fort was named after him.One of the major highlight of the Nahargarh fort is the stunning view of the Man Sagar Lake and the surrounding areas that can be viewed form the fort. The magnificent view of Man Sagar Lake has never failed to lure visitors with its charming beauty. Visit this magnificent fort while you are in Jaipur, Rajasthan to worth your tour to Jaipur or Rajasthan. The fort glorifies the rich culture and the glorious age of the chivalrous Rajas and Maharajas of the city. 
Jaipur is well connected by air, road and train with all the major cities of India.




Jaigarh Fort




Jaigarh Fort or Fort of Victory is located 15 Km away from Jaipur in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is considered to be one of the most well fortified structures in India.The magnificent fort was constructed by Sawai Singh of Jaipur in 1726 in order to tighten the security of Amber and Jaipur. Situated on the top of the hill the fort provides the stunning view of the Jaipur town and magnificent amber fort. It was used as the treasury of the royal family of Jaipur. Jaigarh Fort is not that captivating as that of Amber Fort but it has its own charm that lures visitors.The main highlights of the fort are massive Cannon, fortification, museum, palaces, temples and the magnificent water tanks. Among all the major highlights Cannon is the prime attraction of the fort. It is believed to be the largest cannon in the world. It was strategically located so that it becomes easier to fire at the enemies or the attackers to the fort.




The Fort also has museum which has a great collection of antiquity coins, photographs, weapons and the articles of royal rulers. Watching the astonishing collection of the fort visitors will surely wander back to the gallantry days of the kings. Visitors can also see the royal chairs and some instrument which are now placed in the Shubhat Niwas of the meeting Hall of Warriors. Above all the fort is also known for its architectural magnificence. The fort has three water tanks which were used to harvest water and the largest tank has the capacity of storing 60, 00,000 gallons of water. The highlight of this Fort is the massive cannon by the name of Jaivan, which was made in the same production house. Jaivan, the cannon, is believed to be the largest cannon in the World and the main attraction of the Jaigarh Fort. The Fort discloses the mastery over architecture of the former age. Jaigarh Fort has many wide water channels, which were a part of a rainwater harvesting system. The Fort also has 3 underground tanks, the largest one of which can store 60, 00,000 gallons of water. One can plan to visit the armory and museum, which are worth seeing.Jaipur is well connected by air, road and train with all the major cities of India.