NEEMRANA FORT (Alwar District, Rajasthan):

Strategically sited 122 km from Delhi, Neemrana is synonymous with the prominent fort. Its othe assets are the 9-storey 18th century 'Bawadi or Stepwell', the Rani's Palace and, suprise suprise, Gold and Silver craftmen tucked away in the 'Sonaromwali Gali'.

Local lore has it that Raja Todarmal built the Bawadi as part of relief work in 1752, expending the magnificent heave of 130,000 silver coins. The deep well running parallel to the bawadi at its back is planned to be integrated in the bawadi to a regional haat for the craft of Neemrana and beyond. The fort was restored with local material and converted into a heritage hotel. Restoration is a continuous process......

SAMODE FORT (Jaipur District, Rajasthan):

A mere 9 km from Chomu town, Samode is tucked between low-lying hills on one of the gateways to Shekhawati, the well-known visitor circuit of Rajasthan. The Samode community comprises mainly of artisans who have helped th evillage retain its historic identity. Samode has a Palace and a Bagh, both well featured in trave guides. Constructed over 600 years ago, the Palace is known for its "Sheesh-Mahal"- Replete with mirrors. The Bagh is marked by its green setting.

There are temples, bawadis and havelis, each with a silent story while the village walkway is surprisingly full with a diversity of crafts....lacquerware to carpets! Some local families are venturing into home-stays. This will no doubt be a new mutual experience, backed by traditional Rajasthani cuisine and hospitality.

JAIGARH FORT (Jaipur, Rajasthan):

The Jaigarh fort is the most spectacular of the three-hilltop forts that overlook Jaipur. It is one of the few military structures of medieval India preserved almost intact, containing palaces, a granary, a well-planned cannon foundry, several temples, a tall tower and giant mounted cannon-the Jai Ban (Jaivan) which is the largest cannon in the world. Jaigarh Fort is also known as the fort of victory. The display includes a collection of canons, many of which are exquisitely decorated and were used in the Mughal campaigns led by the Rajput King, Raja Man Singh.

It 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.

NAHARGARH FORT (Jaipur, Rajasthan):

Nahargarh Fort is located on the sheer rugged ridge of Aravali Hills and it forms an impressive northern backdrop of Jaipur. The fort overlooks the city and presents a glittering view of the city lights. It was built in 1734 and extended in 1868. Nahargarh meaning abode of the tigers was built by Jai Singh to bolster the defense of Amber. It was named Nahargarh after Nahar Singh a prince whose spirit would destroy the construction and not allow its progress further. The Madhavendra Bhawan, built by Sawai Ram Singh II has uniquely a cluster of 12 identical suits for queens and at the head is a suit for the king himself. The rooms are linked by corridors and retain some delicate frescos as well as toilets and kitchen hearths. It was used by members of the royal family for excursion in summers and is now even a favoured picnic spot. Durg Cafeteria just above the entrance sells meals and refreshments, while Padao Restaurant on the west sells drinks around sunset.

AMBER FORT (Jaipur, Rajasthan):

Amber (known as Amer) is situated about 11 kilometers from Jaipur and was the ancient citadel of the ruling Kachhawa clan of Amber, before the capital was shifted in the plains to present day Jaipur. The Amber Fort set in picturesque and rugged hills is a fascinating blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. Constructed by Raja Man Singh I in 1592 and completed by Sawai Jai Singh I. The fort is made in red sand stone and white marble. The rugged forbidding exterior belies an inner paradise with a beautiful fusion of art and architecture. In the foreground is the Maotha Lake providing a breathtaking view. Built mainly for the warring enemies as a safe place, the heavily structured walls could defend the residents within the ramparts of the fort.

The Rajputs who had apparently won a small structure passed on by Meena tribes, later on renovated it into the grand Amber Fort. Although many of the early structures have been literally ruined but at the same time, those dating from the 16th century on are remarkably preserved by sincere efforts.

UMMAID BHAWAN PALACE (Jodhpur, Rajasthan):

Maharaja Ummaid Singhji who built this palace was fascinated with western lifestyles so he marshalled the services of a well-known Edwardian architect, Henry Vaughan Lanchester, a creditable equal of Edward Lutyens (architect of New Delhi) to construct a three hundred and forty seven roomed Ummaid Palace. This was to become India's great palace and the biggest private residence in the world. Spectacular Central Rotunda, the cupola rises to a hundred and five feet high; the Throne Room with its exquisite Ramayana murals; an elegant wood-panelled library, and even a private museum; an indoor swimming pool, a Billiards Room, tennis courts and unique marble squash courts makes Ummaid Bhawan Palace is unabashedly the most magnificent.

The Palace now is a five star deluxe palace hotel. The museum of the palace is highly recommended for its display of weapons, an array of stuffed leopards, a huge banner presented by Queen Victoria and an incredible collection of clocks.

MEHRANGARH FORT (Jodhpur, Rajasthan):

Perched on a 150 m high hill its sprawl is the most formidable and magnificent fort in Rajasthan. Rao Jodha founded it in 1459 but subsequent rulers of Jodhpur have also added to it over the centuries. A meandering road leads to the from the city 5 kms below. To the left is chhatri of Kirat Singh Soda, a soldier who fell on the spot while defending the fort against the armies of Amber. There are seven gates, which include Jayapol meaning victory built by Maharaja Man Singh to commemorate his victories over Jaipur and Bikaner armies. Fatehpole also mean as a victory gate was built by Maharaja Ajit Singh to mark the defeat of Mughals. The palm imprints still attract devotional attention and are covered by vermilion paste and paper-thin silver foil.

CITY PALACE (Udaipur District, Rajasthan):

City Palace towers over the Pichola Lake. Maharana Udai Singh initiated the construction of the palace but succeeding Maharanas added several palaces and structures to the complex retained a surprising uniformity to the design. The entry to the Palace is from the Hathi Pole, the Elephant gate. Suraj Gokhada or the balcony of the sun is where the Maharana would grant public audiences mainly to boost the morale of the people in difficult times. The main part of the palace is now preserved as a museum displaying a large and diverse array of art-facts. Down steps from the entrance is the armoury museum exhibiting a huge collection of protective gear, weapons including the lethal two-pronged sword.

The rooms of the palace are superbly decorated with mirror tiles and paintings. Manak Mahal or the Ruby Palace has a lovely collection of glass and mirror work while Krishna Vilas display a rich collection of miniature paintings. belongs. Some more beautiful paintings can be seen in the Zanana Mahal or the ladies chamber, which leads to Lakshmi Chowk a beautiful white pavilion.

FATEH PRAKASH PALACE (Udaipur, Rajasthan):

It's like being cocooned in authentic royal luxury at the Fateh Prakash Palace, the grand heritage palace of the HRH group. The warmth of royal hospitality greets you as you walk along the corridors lined with large paintings of the Mewar School that flourished in the seventeenth through nineteenth century.

The lake facing suites in the turrets are suitably appointed with four poster beds and period furniture, festooned with maroon velvet curtains and delicate silk tassels. It's a legacy kept alive since the early decades of the twentieth century when Maharana Fateh Singh (period of reign: 1884 - 1935) used to be the royal occupant of this palace. Till date the formality of royal occasions are maintained.

KUMBHALGARH FORT (Udaipur, Rajasthan):

Located 64 kms north of Udaipur in the wilderness, Kumbhalgarh is the second most important citadel after Chittorgarh in the Mewar region. Cradled in the Aravali Ranges the fort was built in the 15th century by Rana Kumbha. It also served the rulers of Mewar as a refuge in times of strife. It is also of sentimental significance as it is the birthplace of Mewar's legendary King Maharana Pratap. The fort fell only once that too to the combined armies of Mughal and of Amber for scarcity of drinking water. Many magnificent palaces an array of temples built by the Mauryas of which the most picturesque place is the Badal Mahal or the palace of the clouds. The fort also offers a superb birds view of the surroundings.

The fort's thick wall stretches some 36 kms and is wide enough to take eight horses abreast. Maharana Fateh Singh renovated the fort in the 19th century. The fort's large compound has very interesting ruins and the walk around it can be very rewarding.

CHITTORGARH FORT (Chittorgarh, Rajasthan):

Chittorgarh is the epitome of Rajput pride, romance and spirit. It reverberates with history of heroism and sacrifice, which is evident as it echoes with the tales sung by the Bards of Rajasthan. The main reason for visiting Chittorgarh is its massive hilltop fort, which is a depiction of Rajput culture and values. The fort stands on a 240-hectares site on an 180m high hill that rises rapidly from the plains below. Thrice a stronger enemy sacked Chittorgarh. The first sack occurred in 1303 when a Pathan King Ala-ud-din Khilji overwhelmed by the beauty of Queen Padmini besieged the fort in order to capture the regal beauty. In 1535 Bahadur Shah the Sultan of Gujarat besieged the fort causing immense carnage and it is said that 32000 men donned the saffron robes of martyrdom and rode out to face a certain death, and the women folkes committed Jauhar (an act of self immolations by plunging in a large fire) led by Rani Karnawati.

In 1568 Mughal Emperor Akbar razed the fort to the rubble and once again the history repeated itself. In 1616 Mughal emperor Jehangir restored the fort to the Rajput but it was not resettled. Today a new township sprawls below the hill on the west side. Chittorgarh is connected by both bus and rail. The bus stand and the railway are located in the new township.

JUNAGARH FORT (Bikaner, Rajasthan):

It is an unassailable fortress, which has never been conquered. Built in 1593 A.D. by Raja Rai Singh, one of the most distinguished generals in the army of Emperor Akbar, the fort is a formidable structure encircled by a moat.

The main entrance to the fort is Karan Pole that is east facing. Next to it is the Suraj Pole meaning the sun gate. The fort situates in it some very magnificent palaces like Anup Mahal, Ganga Niwas and Rang Mahal or palace of pleasure. The Har Mandir is the majestic chapel for the royal family for worshipping their gods and goddesses. These palaces, constructed in red sandstone and marble, make a picturesque ensemble of courtyards, balconies, kiosks and windows dotted all over the structure. The premises also houses a museum which is an array of a rich collection.

LALGARH (Bikaner, Rajasthan):

This grand palace is an architectural masterwork in red sandstone, and was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh Ji in the memory of his father Maharaja Lal Singh Ji in 1902. Sir Swinton Jacob designed this oriental fantasy. This architecture is a fusion of Rajput, Mughal and European architecture. The exterior contrasts dramatically with the oriental interiors and amenities. The palace has beautiful latticework and filigree work, which are hallmarks of a great craftsmanship.

The Palace has an amazing collection of well-maintained paintings and hunting trophies. Sprawling lawns with blooming bougainvillea and dancing peacocks make a visual extravagance.

GAJNER PALACE (Bikaner, Rajasthan):

Gajner is an incomparable Jewel in the Thar. Built by the great Maharaja Ganga Singhji of Bikaner on the embankment of a lake with a generous dose of flora and fauna. Basically a hunting and relaxing lodge, the maharaja and the family shared their passion with their exclusive guests and hosted exotic holidays for them. Around the palace is a thick forestation that attracts the guests to take up a simple walk around admiring the migratory birds in winters like imperial sand goose, antelopes, black bucks and the animal species that wander around in the form of Nilgais, chinkaras, deers etc. The hotel is spread in a large area, and the ambiance around is as raw and authentic as it was before

TARAGARH FORT (Ajmer, Rajasthan):

The giant fort stands guarding the city. It has six gates. The fort also has Miran Saheb ki Dargah who was the governor of the fort and laid down his life in an encounter. It gives a panoramic view of the city situated in Nagpahari of Aravalli ranges, this fort has immense archaeological and historical importance.

SONAR FORT (Jaisalmer District, Rajasthan):

Known as SONAR QUILA or the Golden fort, rising from the sand, the mega structure merges with the golden hues of the desert ambience and the setting suns in its most colorful shades gives it a fairy tale look. Its simply a magic, the bastions envelops a whole townships that consist of palace complex various security sources and the havelis of rich merchants carved with an incredibly light touch, several temples and the residential complexes of the armies and traders placed strategically on the trade route, from where the ancient caravans passed en-route passing all the riches for the prosperity to an otherwise non source full kingdom. These merchants served and acquire a great deal of power and noble status in the royal courts of Bhatti Rajputs who founded the state in the 12th century and proceeded further.

But the rich merchant inspired by the classic style of the royals , constructed huge mansions (havelis) adjacent to each other in the nature of medieval culture and profusely decorated walls and ceilings and intricately carved outdoors and interiors. The colorful art forms and some how side kind the royal heritage and made it appear more pale in comparison . The craftsmen were usually muslims who were induced on their journey to exhibit their skills. The results was architectural purity that cannot be seen elsewhere.

MOTI DOONGRI PALACE, JAIPUR:

The Moti Doongri Palace is a little fortress located atop a hillock, and replica of a Scottish castle. 'Moti Doongri' means Pearl Hillock. The fortess was built in the 20th century and later it was converted into a palace by Maharaja Sawai singh II and Maharani Gayatrei Devi. Close to it is a very famous temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha that gives it a religious ambience.

THE CITY PALACE, JAIPUR :

The City palace is located at the Jaleb Chowk area in the center of the jaipur City. The palace was built by the Kachachhawaha Rajput, Maharaja Jai Singh II. The palace is the quintessence of Rajasthan and Mughals architecture. The City palace comprises Mubarak Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Badal Mahal and City palace Museum. Some part of the Mubarak Mahal has been converted into a museum Known as Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum which has an opulent collection of royal costumes, jewellery, weapon and some precious Pashmina (Kashmiri) Shawls, Banaras silk saris, Sanganeri print and folk embroidery. At the heart of the complex is the seven-story Chandra Mahal, in a part of which the present generation of the erstwhile royal family still lives.

Divan-e-Aam is a spacious audience hall and displays an exquisite range of rare books, miniature paintings, arms and the private collection of the farmer ruling family. The Shish Mahal, with its shining mirrors inset in walls and painted floral designs, is also a part of it. Diwan-e-Khaas is basically an open hall. Two magnificent large silver vessels are on display here. These vessels were once used by Madho Singh II for carrying dirking water from the holy Ganges whiles traveling to England.

BALA QILA, ALWAR:

The Bala Qila, situated on a hill, is the oldest creation in the Alwar City today. The was built by Hasn Khas Mewati in 1550 A.D. the fort stretches about 3 miles from north to south and about 1mile wide from east to west. It has been a silent witness of rise and fall of reigns from the Mughals, to the Marathas, and Jats and finally the Kachchhwaha Rajputs by whom it was captured. There are six gates for entrance to the fort Chained Pol, Suraj pol, Andheri Gate and Laxman pol. Permission from the district authorities is located here.

SARISKA PALACE, ALWAR:

Sariska Palace was built during the year 1892-1900 in honour of the Duke of Connaught, son of Queen Victoria. It was used as a hunting lodge and now it has been converted into a heritage hotel. Although tourists can visit Sariska Wild Life Sancturary all year-round but the best time is during winters, from the month of November to March.

RANTHAMBHORE FORT, RANTHAMBHORE:

A 9th century creation, the Fort is situated on the top of a hill and overlooks the forest area. The fort is located in the famous Ranthambhore National Park and surrounded by massive walls and guarded by solid gates. There are many historical structures inside the Fort like Hammer's Court, Badal Mahal, Dhula Mahal and phansi Ghar, but they all are in ruins. There are many cenotaphs, temples and gates also.

LAHAGARH FORT, BHARATPUR:

Unlike other forts, Lohagarh fort is famous not for its opulence but for its history of invincibility. The fort had nullified many attacks on it. The construction technique of the fort makes it remarkably strong. Ramparts around the fort were built of the rock-strong mixture of mud and rubble and outher side was surrounded by 45 meter wide and 15 meter deep moats (ditch filled with water ) to make it untouchable by enemies. The gateway, made of Ashtadhatu (eight-metals), has paintings of huge elephants. Kishori Mahal, Mahal Khaas, Moti Mahal and Kothi Khas are some other monuments inside the fort which are a treat for Eyes. Jawaharlal burj and Fateh Burj were erected in commemoration of victory over the Mughals and the British.

DEEG FORT, DEEG:

As mentioned in the district Gazetteer of Bhagalpur, the Deep Fort was built by Maharaja Badan Singh. The fort is encompassed by giant walls and surrounded by a wide moat. One needs to cross a bridge to get inside the fort. The massive gate still looks intimidating. Most of the structures inside the fort are not in good condition. A watchtower still stands overlooking the area with a gun placed over it. Inside the fort are a few cannons, one of them seized from Ahmed Shah Abdulla.

JAG NIWAS-LAKE PALACE, UDAIPUR:

Jag Niwas is popularly known as Lake Palace Hotel. This Palace was built in the 1743 by Maharana Jagat Singh II on an island in the middle of Lake Pichhol.a. The erstwhile royal family of me war used to live here to ward off the heat during the summer. Today this Palace has been converted to a luxury hotel. The Aravali hill ranges create a beautiful backdrop and enhance the scenic beauty of this palace. The Palace is decked up with marble floors, Pillared terraces, finely carved columns, swimming pool, and fountains.

GAGRON FORT, JHALAWAR:

The Gagron Fort is situated about 12 kilometer from Jahalwar at the confluence of the rivers Ahu and Kali Sindh. This imposing structure of the fort is protected by river water from three sides and the fourth side was shielded by a deep moat. The fort was constructed by the DOD Rajpoots and remaind in their possession upto 12th century. The rugged and jagged walls echo that the fort is a witness of many great battles.

UDAI BILAS PALACE, DUNGARPUR:

Udai Bilas Palace is majestically engraved at the bank of Lake Gaibsagar and surrounded by its teal-blue waters on one side and deep green forests of a private reserve on the other Side. This splendid edifice is named after its founder, Maharawal Udai Singh-II, a patron of art and architectecture. He built a wing of this building in bluish grey local stone "Pareva". The "Ek Thambia Mahal", (literally means one pillared Palace) is embellished with intricate sculptured pillars and panels, decorated balconies, balustrades, bracketed windows, arches and frieze of marble carving.

JALORE FORT, JALORE:

Jalore Fort is one of the 'Nine Castles of Maru'. The Fort was built by Pratihar rulers in the 8th century A.D. It has been described as the Sonagir or the 'golden mount'. It has also been regarded as the most invincible fort for Rajasthan. This fort is atop a steep hill and dominates the surrounding areas. The Palaces, inside the fort, are simple without embellishment. The constructional style of the fort is based on the traditional Hindu architecture. After an ascend of 5 km on a steep path, one can access the fort through four gigantic gates, the Suraj Pol, Dhruv Pol, Bal Pol and the Siroh Pol. The Palace inside the fort is now desolated but the cut-stone walls of the fort are still intact at some Palace.

JAG MANDIR, KOTA:

Jag Mandir is situated amidst the tranquil and teal-blue waters of Kishore Sagar Lake, locally famous as Bada Talab. Kishore Sagar Lake was constructed in 1346 AD by Prince Dher Deh of Bundi. Boat-riding can be enjoyed in the lake. Keshar Bhag, famous for its royal cenotaphs, is situated near the Jag Mandir.

GARH PALACE, KOTA:

Garh Palace, a 17th century royal endeavour, is situated on the banks of Chambal Rivar. This Palace is one of the largest palaces in Rajasthan. Other than the murals and displays of antique garments, toys, and weaponry, the Palace is also home to the very popular Kota School of Painting, an important milestone in the history of medieval Indian art. The Durbar Hall is eye-catchy and so is the ebony and ivory gates leading inside. Palace rooms are brimmed with miniature paintings, antique furniture, wall hangings and murals. There is a museum, nestled within the Hawa Mahal, displaying an exuberant collection of arts and artefacts.

The Raj Mahal is adorned with is adorned with gold and glass on the walls with silver and mirror work on ceiling. An ensemble of desirable royal wardrobe and valuable possessions of the erstwhile royal family are on display in the Akh-ade-Ka-Mahal. Bada Mahal, decorated with beautiful paintings and 'Kota Kalam miniatures', had been a private living space of the rulers. Walls of the verandah are also decorated with painted glass work and marble friezes. Suraj Gokh, a balcony, is painted with rich gold, glass and crystal work.

HANUMANGARH FORT, HANUMANGARH :

A 900 year old massive and impressive 'Hanumangarh' fort is situated in the middle of Hanumangarh Town. Hanumangarh city was previously known as Bhatner after the name of the Bhatner after the name of the Bhatti Dynasty of Rajputs which ruled over the city for a very long time. Therefore the fort is known and famous as 'Bhatner fort' also. This fort is considered as one of the oldest fort in India and it is belived that the foundation stone of this fort was laid approximately 1700 years ago. Although most of the part of the fort are not in good state but the fort walls still comprises some interesting structures and many temples that are worth visiting. The Bhatner fort was built by Abhay Rao Bhatti, who has been described very briefly in the history. This fort has witnessed many historical war moments of Indian history. Merchants from middle Asia, Kabul and Sindh used to pass from this area while going to Delhi and Agra for trade.

SAJJANGARH PALACE :

This splendid palace, also known as Monsoon Palace, is few kilometer away from Udaipur City. This is situated on a hilltop and soars into the sky upto the height of 335 meters from city level It offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding area upto several Kilometers. Maharana Sajjan Singh started the construction of this palace with an idea to develop this building as a nine storied observatory. The dream of the Maharana shattered with his premature death and later the palace was used as a Monsoon Palace and hunting lodge.