Year of construction: Between 15th and 18th Century
Highlights: Palaces, granary, cannon foundry, several temples, a tall tower, etc. The fort also houses a collection of weapons, puppets and ancient coins and the largest cannon in the world.
The magnificent Jaigarh fort is located near Jaipur. Jaigarh fort or the fort of victory was constructed by Sawai Jai Singh of Jaipur in 1726. The Fort stands in the middle of thorn and scrub hills, which impart it a stout look. The Jaigarh fort gives an amazing view of the city below. The purpose of building the Jaigarh fort was to strengthen the defense of Amber. It is the main reason why the Jaigarh fort is quite plain and simple. The fort is surrounded by a moat and all other arrangements seen in big citadels. Jaigarh Fort was also used as the treasury of the royal family of Jaipur.
The water supply of Jaigarh fort and its storage reservoirs are a marvel of engineering. The Jaigarh Fort has a number of water channels, constructed with the aim of harvesting rainwater. Besides the water channels, there are underground tanks at the fort. The fort could withstand long sieges without much difficulty as a result of the ingenious water supply arrangements. Inside the Jaigarh fort there is an armory and a museum. The armory has an assortment of swords, shields, guns, muskets and cannon balls. Inside the museum are photographs of Maharajas, royalty, buildings and processions and even a rounded pack of cards besides many other remnants of the past. The most fascinating thing inside the fort is large cannon on wheels, Jaivana. It was manufactured in Jaigarh's foundry in the year 1720.
Apart from the abovementioned features, there are other fascinating things to look out for in the Jaigarh fort. Of all the open halls the most interesting one is the Shubhat Niwas (the Meeting hall of Warriors). It houses numerous remnants of old times. The imposing ramparts of the Jaigarh Fort have walkways on its inner side. From the Diwa Burj or the watchtower one can have an excellent view of the town and the Amber Fort, which is located at a short distance.
