Jaigarh Fort attracts immense attention from all those who wish to know how rulers defended their region from foreign armies and how they gained military advantage. Unlike other forts of Rajasthan in India, Jaigarh Fort leaves no impression of being a fort that aims to impress with its embellished exteriors or interiors. Rather it conveys the straightway fact that the fort was meant to strengthen the defence of Amer whose ruler Sawai Raja Jai Singh built it.
The fort which is located at a distance of 15 km from the city of Jaipur means Victory Fort. Its constructed commenced in the fifteenth century and continued till the eighteenth century. The fort stands at the top of the hill called the Cheel ka Teela (Hill of Eagles). Amber Fort stands at the bottom of the hill. It is believed that the two forts are part of one complex, however they are indeed connected by well guarded passages.
There are a number of attractions within the fort - several palaces, granary, well-planned cannon foundry, several temples and a tall tower. The fort was at the center of artillery production during the erstwhile era and hence a massive cannon by the name of Jaivan is a major highlight here. It is believed to be the largest canon in the world. The fact that the fort was meant to bolster the defence of Amer is further strengthened when you see the underground water tanks that ensured ample supply of water during wars. It is rumoured that the royal family stored gold and silver jewelleries in compartment below the water tank.
Dungar Darwaja is the entry point of the fort after which you get to see the Shubhat Niwas or the meeting hall of the warriors. There is also a museum that displays a wide range of arms used by Rajput rulers along with some photographs.
