These Famous Historical Hill Forts in Rajasthan you must visit
Forts are historically and culturally important monuments of Rajasthan that play an important role in its tourism industry.
The region has numerous forts that visitors can tour, including not only the popular Mehrangarh Fort, which many consider being the most impressive fort in Rajasthan, but also Man Singh Palace, Lohagarh Fort, and several others that offer amazing views of the nearby countryside.
Here are 10 famous forts in Rajasthan that are sure to delight travelers from around the world.
Famous Historical Hill Forts in Rajasthan
The Amber Fort
A trip to Jaipur isn’t complete without a visit to Amber Fort, one of its most iconic monuments. The Amber Palace was built in 1592 by Rana Kumbha as his summer palace and is currently home to an armory, a museum, and several religious shrines.
It sits atop a hill and boasts a dramatic history—among other things, it served as an elephant training school for many years.
Located about 20 km outside Jaipur, visiting Amber Fort takes about two hours if you take your time, which I highly recommend—the views alone are worth it! Listed on First Under the Famous Historical Hill Forts in Rajasthan.
Tourists can take public transportation or hire rickshaws (cabs) at relatively inexpensive rates.
The Mehrangarh Fort
Mehrangarh Fort is located in Jodhpur, India. It is on a 180-meter-high hill, and it houses 21 courtyards within its boundaries.
A proud heritage monument of Jaipur, Mehrangarh Fort was built by Maharaja Jai Singh II between 1628 and 1634 CE.
It took around 10 years to complete. The fort is an important tourist destination in India today and even served as a film shooting location for several Bollywood movies like Raavan, Mirza Ghalib, and Mary Kom.
Its walls depict Rajput paintings that depict religion, culture, tradition, and warfare too. The paintings are very colorful which catches your attention! Listed on Second Under the Famous Historical Hill Forts in Rajasthan.
The Jaisalmer Fort
This fort is located in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. The building was built in 1156 AD by Rawal Jaisal, a Bhati ruler. The architecture of forts gives an insight into princely lifestyles during medieval times in India. The Fort Listed in Third Place Under the Famous Historical Hill Forts in Rajasthan.
Mehrangarh Fort: This fort is located in Jodhpur, India. It was constructed between 1459 and 1501 AD by Rao Jodha and is one of the major tourist attractions in Rajasthan state India; it’s one of the World Heritage Sites declared by UNESCO too.
Udaipur City Palace: It was founded in 1553 AD as a royal palace and has now become a hotel known as Maharana’s Palace Hotel.
The Nahargarh Fort
There’s no fortress more famous in India than Nahargarh Fort. Built by Rajput ruler Jai Singh II, it towers over Jaipur and offers unparalleled views of the Pink City. This Fort is Listed in Fourth Position Under the Famous Historical Hill Forts in Rajasthan.
The fort also houses a museum displaying sculptures, weapons, and art dating back over four centuries.
Soak up history as you marvel at richly painted interiors, stunning frescoes, and dazzling arches. There’s also a stupendous palace within its walls that is used for hosting cultural events and weddings.
If you need an escape from Jaipur’s hustle-bustle then Nahargarh Fort is your best bet!
The Chittorgarh fort
Located in Chittorgarh, India, The Chittorgarh Fort is famous for its strong defense system. It has a small moat outside and it is surrounded by a wall that has 60 feet of high sandstone.
The large gates are named Haldighati, Padal Pol, and Aap Pol. The fort houses many beautiful places such as Badal Mahal and Rani Mahal. This Fort is Listed in Fifth Position Under the Famous Historical Hill Forts in Rajasthan.
There are various temples within it such as Jain temple, Kirti Mandir, Ram Pol, Somnath Temple, and Kalika Mata Temple.
One can easily roam around here as many shops are selling local handicrafts here at lower prices than any other place nearby.
Bikaner Fort, Bikaner
Bikaner Fort stands as one of India’s most fascinating and lesser-known forts. Located in Bikaner in Northern India, Bikaner is one of Rajasthan’s oldest cities and has a rich history dating back nearly 1,000 years. This Fort is Listed in Sixth Position Among the Famous Historical Hill Forts in Rajasthan.
The city also played an important role as a trade center between Asia and Europe during medieval times.
It’s not surprising then that it became home to several iconic forts, including Bikaner Fort (built in 1467 by Rao Bika).
Originally built from mud and wood, the fort was eventually upgraded with sandstone walls which took on its current regal appearance.
These days, you can reach the top via a stone pathway that winds up 400 steps or take an elevator up instead.
Mandawa Haveli, Mandawa, Rajasthan
As a well-known haven for royalty, Mandawa has some amazing Havelis (mansions) that are rich in heritage and culture.
Founded in 1690 by Kesar Singh, who was initially chosen by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as his revenue officer, Mandawa Haveli is where most of these residences are located. This Haveli is Listed in Seventh Position Among the Famous Historical Hill Forts in Rajasthan.
This magnificent structure dates back to 1715, making it one of India’s oldest Havelis. It stands out for its intricate fresco paintings that cover almost every inch of wall space.
The mansion can be visited from Tuesday through Saturday from 8 am until noon and 1 pm until 5 pm. Entry is free with prior notice.
Salim Singh Ki Haweli, Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan
One of the top 10 famous forts in Rajasthan is Salim Singh Ki Haweli, which has been constructed in the year 1729. The one thing you must never do at Salim Singh Ki Haweli fort is climbed its walls! Why?
Because it’s full of snakes! Once Queen Ratnavati heard about these snakes, she forbade anyone from climbing up on its walls.
Since then, not a single snake has been spotted anywhere near Salim Singh Ki Haweli. This Haveli is Listed in Under Eighth Position Among the Famous Historical Hill Forts in Rajasthan.
The Pratapgarh Fort, Pratapgarh, Rajasthan
Built-in 1749, Pratapgarh Fort is one of the most magnificent forts in Rajasthan. Spread over sprawling acres and visible from a great distance, it seems more like a palace than a fort! This Fort is Listed in Ninth Position Among the Famous Historical Hill Forts in Rajasthan.
The first thing that strikes you as you enter is its sheer beauty. In addition to which, several structures within its premises have been declared national monuments.
Built by Maharaja Pratap Singh, it was attacked and captured by Rana Sanga and Mughal Emperor Humayun in 1535 but was recaptured two years later by Rana Kumbha.
It remained under Mewar’s rule till 1749 when Udaipur’s then ruler Maharawal Raghunath Singh occupied it.
Kumbhalgarh fort, near Udaipur, Rajasthan
Kumbhalgarh Fort is one of India’s most fascinating, massive forts and is worth a visit. Built-in the 15th century by Rana Kumbha, it also happens to be one of India’s biggest forts. This Fort is Listed in Tenth Position Among the Famous Historical Hill Forts in Rajasthan.
While there are a lot of myths associated with it, you can visit them here, or if you have time stay back at least a night to explore more.
The highlight here is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Ram. Be sure not to miss out on experiencing their dance performances on your way out as well! Kumbhalgarh Fort is currently ranked first in TripAdvisor’s list of ‘top 25 historical places in India (based on traveler interest)’.
This Concludes the Tropic on the Famous Historical Hill Forts in Rajasthan.
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