Rajasthan can be described as the land of forts and palaces. The history of this state is full of stories of valor and brave resistance against foreign invaders. All the rulers of Rajasthan had to build strong forts for defense against constant enemy aggression. These forts were not only defensive buildings, but were the center of life in the cities surrounding them. Even today, these forts in Rajasthan serve the country, although in a different way. They are the highlights of tourism in Rajasthan, and are visited by numerous tourists from all over the world.

Important Forts in Rajasthan:

Amber: This fort was previously a palace within the walls of what is today known as the jaigarh fort. The two forts are connected by fortified passages, and can be visited together. The Fort used to serve as the capital of the rulers of Jaipur. Raja Mansingh, the trusted commander of Akbar, started the construction in 1592. The splendor of the fort can still be witnessed by elephant rides around the complex. The interior chambers still maintain much of their past glory. The hall of mirrors is a fascinating structure, the intricate mirrors still captivating tourists. The twin forts offer a panoramic view of the Maotha Lake and the Jaipur city.

Junagarh: This famous fort in Bikaner is one of the most notable among the Rajasthan forts. The fort was never captured by the enemy ever since construction was started in 1587. Raja rai Singh is credited for the building of the fort. The magnificent structure is one of the finest examples of Rajput architecture. The fort includes many beautiful buildings like the Durga Niwas, Anup Mahal, Suraj Pol, Chandra Mahal and Phul Mahal. The fort museum informs tourists about the history of the fort.

Kumbhalgarh: Famous for being the birthplace of Maharana Pratap, this fort in Rajasamand district of Rajasthan has walls stretching up to a length of 36 kilometers. The fort has many important and impressive buildings built inside it, including over 350 Jain and Hindu temples. The imposing structure was considerably enlarged through the years after its construction in the 15th century. This fort is also the center of much folklore about Mewar and its greatest hero, Mharana Pratao.

Mehrangarh: The fort was built by Rao Jodha in the city of Jodhpur. It towers above the city at a height of 400 feet. The walls of the fort are 68 feet wide and 117 feet high. Construction was started in 1459, after a shift of capital from Mandore. The fort houses many splendid buildings and monuments like the Moti Mahal, Chandan Mahal, Rang Mahal, and the throne room. The bird�s eye view from the fort is also a major highlioght of the fort.

Chittorgarh: Probably the most famous among the Rajasthan forts, Chittorgarh is one of the most important tourist destinations in Rajasthan. The tales of Queen Padmini, said to have committed self immolation (jauhar) after anticipating capture of the fort by Alauddin Khilji, are still told by the guides here. The fort has witnessed many decisive battles in the history of Rajasthan and has been attacked repeatedly by invaodrs, including Akbar in 1568. The victory tower (Vijay stambha) and Tower of fame ( Kirti Stambha ) are among the finest structures in the fort. There are many other attractions in the fort, including Rani Padmini�s palace, Rana Kumbha palace, Ratan Sen palace, and many water tanks. The gates of the fort are also worth special attention.

The other important forts in Rajasthan include the golden fort of Jaisalmer, Nahargarh fort, Taragarh fort, Neemrana fort, and Ranthambore fort.

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