Monument – Amer Fort, Jaipur
Built by – Raja Maan Singh, expanded by Raja Jai Singh I

The city of Amer derives its name from the Ambikeshwar Temple, built atop the Cheel ka Teela. Ambikashwara is a local name for the God Shiva. However, the local folklore suggests that the fort derives its name from Amba, Goddess Durga.

Amer Fort, also known as Amber Fort, is situated in Amer, Rajasthan. The town of Amer was originally built by Meenas and later ruled by Raja Man Singh. Amer Fort is known for its large ramparts and collection of gates and cobbled paths. The Fort overlooks Maota Lake, a significant water source for Amer Palace.

Constructed in red sandstone and marble, the Amer Palace is laid on four levels, each designed with a central courtyard. Popularly known as Amer Palace, it was the residence of the Rajput Maharajas as well as their families.

As it stands now, the Amer Fort was built over the remnants of this earlier structure during the reign of Raja Man Singh, the Kachwaha King of Amer. The structure was fully expanded by his descendant, Jai Singh I. Even later, Amer Fort underwent improvements and additions by successive rulers over the next 150 years until the Kachwahas shifted their capital to Jaipur during the time of Sawai Jai Singh II in 1727.

Photo Courtesy – www.theudaipurstore.com