Jaigarh Fort

Jaigarh Fort - 400 ft above the Amber Fort, the Jaigarh Fort boldly showcases the military prowess of its rulers, and was the center of artillery production in Rajasthan. Also referred to as the “Victory Fort”, it can be approached from either the imposing Doongar Darwaza in the south or the Awani Darwaza in the east.

The Mughal influence on the Jaigarh fort can be observed in the large public halls like the Diwan-i-Aam, the Khilbat Niwas and the Subhat Niwas built along the lines of the forts in Agra and Delhi. The Aram Mandir and Vilas Mandir with a beautiful garden and boudoirs for the ladies of the palace were built for relaxation and leisure activities of the royal family. Remains of a Mughal garden, intricate frescoes, a mini theatre are some of the highlights of the Lakshmi Vilas.

The Jaigarh Fort was believed to be the hoarding ground of the Kachwahas, and attempts to recover this hidden wealth were made till three decades ago. The reserves are believed to have been spent on the construction of the fort The fort houses a museum with a large collection of coins and puppets, and three Hindu temples dating back to the 10th and 12th century. The well preserved 16th century cannon foundry is believed to have incurred the displeasure of the Mughal emperors who did not want any expertise related to warfare to rest outside the Mughal Empire.

Jaigarh’s pride, the Jaivana is a 50 ton, 8 m barrel cannon on wheels, and its stupendous power ensured that enemies maintained a safe distance. Within the fort, Vijay Garh is an interesting collection of weapons which include swords, time bombs, miniature cannon, a 50 kg cannonball, shields, muskets, war bugles, armour and guns mounted on bullock-carts, wheels and camels! The seven storeyed Diya Burj offers a vantage view of Jaipur city, and is believed to be lit up with oil lamps on the king’s birthday.