9 Majestic Forts & Palaces in Rajasthan That You Absolutely Cannot Miss!

Famously known as the Land of Maharajas, Rajasthan is packed with forts and palaces that provide insights into the lives of the royal families who lived here centuries ago. Each palace and fort is a cultural marvel telling stories of a glorious bygone era.

With their one-of-a-kind offerings, visiting these enthralling forts and palaces will gift you with everlasting memories!

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1. Amer Fort, Jaipur

The Amer Palace complex is built of pale yellow and pink sandstone exhibiting huge carved gates, cobbled paths, majestic courtyards and latticed marble windows. While here, visit the Diwan-e-Aam, Diwan-e-Khas, Sheesh Mahal (known for the intricate mirror work), Sila Devi Temple and the Zenana.

Oh! And the sound & light show, held every evening is a compelling experience that you must sign up for!

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located 11 kilometres from Jaipur and is easily approachable by road.

2. Lohagarh Fort, Bharatpur

Lohagarh Fort was built by the Maharaja Suraj Mal, ruler of Bharatpur in the 18th century and is one of the strongest forts of India. Surrounded by deep moats, this looming fort is famous for the many times it withstood attacks by the British forces. Some monuments that make for a delightful visit are Kothi Khas, Mahal Khas, Moti Mahal and the Kishori Mahal.

The fort is located just about 4 kilometres away from Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary and can be reached by road.

3. City Palace Complex, Udaipur

Located on the banks of Lake Pichola, Udaipur City Palace is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Replete with mirror, marble, silver and inlay work, this beautiful edifice is a photographer’s delight! The complex is home to many attractions, While a major part of the palace has now been converted into a museum (that is an absolute must-visit) showcasing the life and times of the Mewar royal family, the other portion is home to the royal descendants who manage the complex. 

Since the City Palace entrance is located in the busy streets of Udaipur, an auto rickshaw is the best way to reach there.

4. Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer

Famously known as the ‘Sonar Quila’, this fort is one of the few ‘living forts’ in the world, with one-fourth of the city’s population residing within its sturdy walls!

Composed of yellow sandstone, the edifice reflects the sun rays giving it a golden appearance, hence the namesake ‘Sonar Quila’. An amalgamation of the Rajput and Islamic architecture styles, this UNESCO World Heritage Site houses many havelis, small residences, converted hotels, shops and more.

5. Nahargarh Fort, Jaipur

Located in the Aravalli mountain range, Nahargarh Fort overlooks Rajasthan’s capital – Jaipur! Built in the 18th century, this massive fort has huge gates, courtyards, towers, corridors and palace rooms that exude an old-world charm. Oh! And the Nahargarh Fort is a Bollywood-favourite featuring in films like Rang De Basanti and Shudh Desi Romance.

Hiring a taxi is the best way to reach Nahargarh Fort from the Jaipur city.

6. Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur

Truly magnificent, this hilltop red sandstone fort is a sight to behold. Brimming with stories and legends from the past, Mehrangarh Fort is much loved for its splendid architecture, wall carvings, filigreed windows and striking courtyards. Some fort walls are as high as 100 feet, and the width ranges from 12 feet to 70 feet. The Sheesh Mahal, Phool Mahal, Jhanki Mahal, Chamunda Mata Temple and the in-house museum are some of the places that you must visit here.

And if you’re an adventure enthusiast, go for the exhilarating zip-lining experience here. Spread over 1200 acres in the heart of Jodhpur city, Mehrangarh Fort is well-connected by road, to other parts of the city.

7. Chittor Fort, Chittorgarh

Symbolic of Rajputana courage and valor, the Chittor Fort was the capital of Mewar and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located atop a hill, this glorious fort is spread across 700 acres and stands testimony to the glorious past of the Mewar dynasty.

While here, visit the Vijay Stambh, explore the palaces and pay your respects at the famous temples.

Chittorgarh Fort is a 2-hour journey by road from Udaipur.

8. Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajsamand

Built by Rana Kumbha in the 15th century, the Kumbhalgarh Fort is famous for being the birthplace of Maharana Pratap. This Mewar fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts of the second-longest wall in the world, about 38 kilometres long.

What’s more? The fort is known for its seven fortified gateways, over 70 temples and unending views of the Aravallis.

Located 84 kilometers away from Udaipur, Kumbhalgarh Fort can be reached via a 2-hour road trip.

9. Taragarh Fort, Bundi

Built in 1345, Taragarh is one of the most impressive structures in Bundi. While it may be a bit ramshackle and strewn with lush green vegetation, the palace grounds are a great place for a leisurely stroll. With its curved roofs topping pavilions, excess temple columns and elephant and lotus motifs, the palace is a tribute to Rajput architectural style.

Taragarh Fort is well-connected by road to Bundi city.

Delighted? Plan your Rajasthan trip today.