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Jaigarh Fort, Jaipur
The western skyline is dominated by the extensive walls, watch towers and gatewasys of the Jaigarh Fort.
In Mughal times, the Jaipur region was a major weapon-producing centre for the Mughal and Rajput rulers, several of which are on display in the fort's museum.
It is one of the few military structures of medieval India preserved almost intact, containing palaces, agrdens open and covered reservoirs, a granary, an armoury, a well-planned cannon foundry, several temples, a tall tower and a giant mounted acnnon-the Jain Ban, the largest cannon in the world.
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.
Jaigarh means `Victory Fort' and 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.
It was the royal treasury for several years. It was one of the few ancient Indian military structures to be kept intact through the ages. There are passageways among the palaces and you can see a collection of coins and puppets. This fort is open to public since a few years only.
It was sealed for seven years, due to a rumour, that an enormous treasure in gold was buried, in the fort area. The government ransacked the fort, emptied the reservoirs of water but found nothing.
Jaigarh was once responsible for the security of both Jaipur and Amber, is a huge moated fort and contains all the accoutrements of a full-fledged citadel.
Entrance fee to Jaigarh Fort is Rs. 10 for Indian tourists and Rs 20 for foreign tourists.
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Jaigarh Fort, Jaipur : Reservation Form |
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