EXPLORE INDIA: Rajasthan: Pushkar Fair and Forts of Rajput Kings

Smith Meher from Sydney, Australia,
CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Tug Of War Pushkar Fair, Rajasthan

As you step into Rajasthan at the dawn of the twentieth century, you join a long line of travelers enchanted by its exotic charm.

You find yourself in a land alive with camels, festivals, and music, where every face tells a story. You wander to Pushkar, where shimmering lakes and sacred temples welcome you.

If you arrive during the famous fair, you feel the heartbeat of Ajmer near Jaipur, now India’s greatest magnet for foreign visitors. You soak in the colors, rhythms, and traditions, sensing a people who live in the grandeur of their past while singing to the spirit of today.

Best Time to Visit

You step into Rajasthan’s warmth, avoiding the heavy July–August rains. In October or November, Pushkar embraces you with its legendary fair. The air smells of dust, incense, and camel feed as traders bargain over camels, horses, cows, and goats. You wander past the shimmering Holy Lake, then climb toward Lord Brahma’s temple, hearing temple bells echo in the wind.

Ajmer calls next, where the Dargah of Moinuddin Chishti hums with devotion. Back at the fair, colors explode—men’s turbans blaze crimson and gold, women’s ghagras swirl in sapphire and magenta, silver ornaments flashing under the sun. Everywhere, beauty competes for your gaze.

You can visit Rajasthan almost any time of year, except during the July–August rains. Arrive in October or November, and you find yourself swept into the legendary Pushkar Fair—one of the largest in the state. You watch camels, horses, cows, and goats traded under the desert sun.

In this holy town, you circle the sacred lake and climb to Lord Brahma’s temple, feeling the weight of centuries. You journey to Ajmer, where the revered Dargah of Moinuddin Chishti draws pilgrims. Amid the fair’s riot of colors, men’s bright turbans and women’s vibrant ghagras dazzle you, each woman adorned in jewels, competing in beauty.

Sporting Events

Sheetal Saini, CC BY 2.0,
via Wikimedia Commons

Rajasthan, a land steeped in vibrant culture and rich heritage, comes alive with exhilarating sporting events, particularly during its renowned fairs. These events serve as a magnetic draw for tourists globally, offering a spectacle of traditional athleticism and pageantry.

Among the most anticipated are the camel and horse races, where the majestic animals, often adorned in exquisite finery, thunder across the desert landscape.

A highlight of the Pushkar Fair, for instance, is the grand parade of beautifully decked-up camels. This isn't just a display; it's a competition of aesthetics, culminating in the selection of the "most beautiful decorated camel." The owner of this esteemed animal is not only showered with praise but also awarded attractive prizes, recognizing their dedication to the ancient art of camel decoration.

Ihsanwayfarer, CC BY-SA 4.0,
via Wikimedia Commons

For many international visitors on leisure tours of India, experiencing these sporting spectacles, alongside exploring Rajasthan's iconic temples and serene lakes like Pushkar Lake, is an unmissable experience.

The allure of such events, especially during the festive season, sees a significant influx of tourists from Western countries. Indeed, the Pushkar Fair, with its unique blend of cultural immersion and thrilling sports, has firmly established itself as a premier destination for foreign tourists seeking an authentic Indian experience.

Exploring the Majestic Forts of Rajasthan: Jaisalmer Fort, Fort Kumbhalgarh

India is a land of Forts and Castles, as it has faced several attacks from many aggressors.

After Queen Victoria had taken over the reins of India from East India Company in the year 1857, the British people started respecting India as their second home. Tourists from other parts of the world have found the forts and castles of India as easily accessible remnants of the grand past of the country that is one of the oldest civilizations on the earth.

Those who come from abroad to see the exotic locations in India, they would hardly miss visiting the state of Rajasthan. This area was formerly called Rajputana, the land of Rajput kings. As this area has always remained on the frontline, the aggressors came here frequently. Thus we find many forts and castles in the state of Rajasthan, India. These are some of the forts tourists would love to visit.

Fort of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Once a quiet desert and now a place bubbling with world tourists, Jaisalmer Fort, Built by Raja Jaisal in 1156 A.D., is one of the oldest forts in Rajasthan, India.

Rajasthan: Jaisalmer Fort

© Vyacheslav Argenberg / http://www.vascoplanet.com/,
CC BY 4.0,
via Wikimedia Commons
Intricate ornate carvings and Jain art in ancient Jain
sandstone temple. In Jaisalmer there are many elaborate
havelis carved from
yellow sandstone. Some temples are
many hundreds years old. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India.

Made of sandstones and locally known as Sonar Quila, the Jaisalmer Fort of Jaisalmer is a nice-looking structure amid the sands of the Rajasthan desert.

Covered by 30 feet high sandstone wall, the fort has 99 bastions, 92 of which were built in the seventeenth century, between 1633 and 1647 AD.

The Jaisalmer is also known as Sonar Quila, literally meaning the Fort of God or golden fort.

The name of this fort is so because it is standing against the backdrop of the desert with its golden sand. The fort looks straight out of a fairy tale.

How to Reach Jaisalmer

Being located in the heart of the northern Indian state of Rajasthan, the fort of Jaisalmer is well connected with the rest of India by motorway and railways. If you want to travel by air, book a ticket for Jodhpur (distance 285 km) and then proceed to Jaisalmer. Getting accommodation would not be a problem here. You can find a hotel suitable for your packet. Hotels suitable for those who like cheap hotels would be an additional advantage of this place.

Jaisalmer: A Fort of Historical Events

You approach the golden walls of Jaisalmer Fort, rising from the desert like a mirage. Its sandstone glow deepens in the sun, and you can almost hear the echoes of battles fought centuries ago.

Here, near India’s traditional western frontier—close to routes leading toward Iran, Afghanistan, and beyond—you sense the fort’s long history as a guardian of the land.

You picture wave after wave of invaders advancing, their banners whipping in the wind, and the proud Rajput defenders meeting them with courage and steel. Time after time, the local kings repelled almost every assault, keeping the fort’s honor intact.

As you walk its winding lanes, you feel how life here flowed even during sieges—markets bustling, temples ringing with prayers, families holding fast to their traditions. Then history shifts. Under the British Raj, Jaisalmer becomes a princely state, its rulers retaining dignity while navigating colonial rule.

You imagine the meetings between Rajput royalty and British officers, their conversations steeped in strategy and ceremony. Standing on the ramparts, you gaze over the Thar Desert stretching endlessly outward. You realize the fort is more than stone—it is a sentinel, a survivor, and a storyteller, whispering of defiance, resilience, and the unbroken pride of Rajasthan.

Fort Kumbhalgarh, Rajasthan

Aryarakshak at English Wikipedia,
CC BY-SA 3.0,
via Wikimedia Commons

Kumbhalgarh Fort, built by Rajput king Rana Kumbh, is as accessible today as it was inaccessible in the sixteenth century.
Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajasthan, Western India.

The great wall of this fort is believed to be the second-longest wall in the world, the first being the wall of China. this has made the fort almost un-conquerable. Thus it would be a journey in the land of wonders and exotic locations.

Mewar's rulers became patrons of all that was best in Indian martial Art and fine arts like miniature paintings and, architecture. Rajput King Rana Kumbh had designed and built 32 out of the 84 fortresses defending Mewar. The fort of Kumbhalgarh with its 36-km long wall and soaring towers is one of the most impressive tourist places in Rajasthan. Kumbhalgarh stands on the site of an ancient citadel dating back to the time of Jain descendants of India's Mauryan emperors who ruled India in the second century AD.

How to Reach Kumbhalgarh

As the fort is located near the famous city of Udaipur in Rajasthan, tourists can book an air ticket for Udaipur and then go by motorway. At Udaipur, there will be facilities to fly to Delhi, Jaipur and other important cities in India. The rail journey is also a wonderful experience in India.

In addition to the fort, Kumbhapgarh is home to a wonderful wildlife sanctuary. Here the tourists would catch the rare beauty of seeing the unmatched flora and fauna of Rajasthan which is known as the land of Sun, sand and forts.

Rajasthan, the land of kings, is renowned for its majestic forts, timeless palaces, and a proud history of valor and architectural excellence. Among the most iconic structures that attract thousands of tourists from across the globe are Amber Fort, Mehrangarh Fort, and Chittorgarh Fort. Each of these forts tells a unique story of India’s medieval glory, architectural grandeur, and the cultural legacy of the Rajput warriors who once ruled the land.

These forts are not just military structures; they are living museums that reflect the soul of Rajasthan’s royal heritage. Whether it is the blend of Mughal and Hindu architecture, the tales of bravery, or the panoramic views from the fortresses perched high on rugged hills, each fort presents an experience that stays etched in memory.

Exploring the Majestic Forts of Rajasthan: Amber Fort, Mehrangarh Fort, and Chittorgarh Fort

Amber Fort – A Marvel of Rajput and Mughal Architecture near Jaipur

A.Savin, FAL, via Wikimedia Commons
Amber Fort

You leave Jaipur behind, the city’s hum fading as you travel eleven kilometers toward the hills. Rising ahead, the Amber Fort greets you like a jewel set in stone, its reflection shimmering in the calm waters of Maota Lake.

You begin your ascent, the fort growing grander with every step, until its gates rise above you in quiet majesty. Standing here, you feel the blend of worlds—Hindu Rajput grandeur mingling effortlessly with the refined artistry of Mughal influence.

Arched doorways whisper tales of emperors and maharajas, while intricately carved pillars and painted ceilings dazzle your eyes.

You wander into courtyards bathed in sunlight, where ornate balconies overlook sweeping vistas of the Aravalli hills. The Sheesh Mahal—the Mirror Palace—draws you in, its walls sparkling as if each mirror shard has trapped a star. You can almost hear the rustle of royal robes and the murmurs of courtly intrigue.

Beyond, the fort’s rugged ramparts stand as silent sentinels, guarding the stories of a bygone age. As you stand on the battlements, the wind carries the scent of history, and you realize Amber Fort is more than a monument—it’s a living canvas of power, beauty, and the timeless artistry of Rajasthan.

Historical Significance of Amber Fort

Jakub Hałun, CC BY-SA 4.0,
via Wikimedia Commons
The garden of Amber Fort,
Jaigarh Fort on the hills
in the background

The origins of Amber Fort date back to the late 16th century, though it was constructed over the ruins of an earlier structure. Raja Man Singh I, one of Emperor Akbar’s trusted generals, began the construction of the fort in 1592.

Subsequent rulers, including Jai Singh I, made additions to the fort, enhancing its size and beauty.

Amber was the ancient capital before Jaipur was founded and remained the center of political power for the Kachwaha Rajputs until the 18th century.

The fort served both as a military stronghold and a royal residence.

Architectural Highlights

Amber Fort is known for its ornate palaces, grand gateways, intricately carved pillars, frescoes, mirror work, and courtyards. Key attractions within the fort include:

Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) – Where the king met his subjects.
Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience) – Used for confidential meetings.
Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) – An exquisite chamber decorated with thousands of pieces of mirrors on the walls and ceiling.
Ganesh Pol – A stunning gateway leading to the private palaces.

Amber Fort is also famous for its light and sound show in the evening and elephant rides that take visitors from the base of the hill to the fort entrance, offering a regal experience.

Jakub Hałun, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Interior of the Mehrangarh Fort

Mehrangarh Fort – The Crown Jewel of Jodhpur

Rising above the skyline of Jodhpur, the Mehrangarh Fort stands tall and proud on a steep hill about 400 feet above the city. It is not only one of the largest forts in India but also one of the best preserved and most formidable.

This massive fort is a testament to the military ingenuity and artistic sensibility of the Rathore Rajputs.

Origins and Strategic Importance

Construction of Mehrangarh Fort began in 1459 CE under the rule of Rao Jodha, the founder of Jodhpur. Built to protect the new capital from invaders, the fort served as a powerful defense against hostile forces, particularly from Central Asia and Afghanistan, long before the Mughal Empire rose to prominence.

The thick battlemented walls still bear the scars of cannonball attacks, offering a visual history of the many battles the fort has withstood.

Highlights Inside the Fort

Mehrangarh Fort is a living museum of Rajput history. The fort complex includes several palaces known for their intricate carvings, expansive courtyards, and lavish interiors:

Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace) – The royal throne room of the Maharajas.
Phool Mahal (Flower Palace) – A private chamber adorned with gold filigree and rich paintings.
Sheesh Mahal – Featuring fine mirror work, much like its counterpart in Amber.
Chamunda Mataji Temple – The family deity of the Rathores.

The fort also houses a museum that displays an impressive collection of palanquins, royal costumes, weapons, and paintings. The panoramic view of the Blue City of Jodhpur from the fort’s ramparts is a visual treat for every visitor.

Chittorgarh Fort – A Symbol of Rajput Valor and Romance

Sunil Bhatt 1970, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Perched on a high hill in the Chittorgarh district of Rajasthan, the Chittorgarh Fort is one of the largest forts in India by area,

It is arguably the most emotionally resonant of all Rajput strongholds.

Spanning over 700 acres, the fort is a silent yet eloquent witness to stories of courage, sacrifice, and tragic romance.

A Fort Echoing the Spirit of Rajputana

Chittorgarh was the capital of Mewar and served as the seat of the legendary Rajput rulers like Rana Kumbha, Rani Padmini, and Maharana Pratap. The fort’s history is marked by three major sieges, during which its defenders chose death over dishonor. Women and children committed Jauhar (mass self-immolation) while the men rode into battle, never to return.

These episodes of heroism are immortalized in local ballads, folk songs, and Rajasthani oral traditions, making the Chittorgarh Fort a symbol of Rajput pride and spirit.

Architectural Splendor and Key Attractions

Set on a hilltop, the fort includes seven massive gates, a complex of palaces, temples, towers, and reservoirs. Key highlights include:

Rana Kumbha Palace – One of the oldest structures in the fort and believed to be haunted.
Rani Padmini’s Palace – Overlooking a lotus pool, this is the palace associated with the legend of Queen Padmini.
Vijay Stambha (Victory Tower) – A nine-story tower built by Rana Kumbha to commemorate victory over the Sultan of Malwa.
Kirti Stambha (Tower of Fame) – A smaller Jain tower dedicated to Adinatha, the first Jain Tirthankara.

The entire fort is like an open-air museum, reflecting the medieval lifestyle of the Rajput warriors and nobility.

Why Rajasthan's Forts Are a Must-Visit

Together, Amber Fort, Mehrangarh Fort, and Chittorgarh Fort provide a powerful glimpse into India’s medieval past and the glorious legacy of the Rajput clans. Their architectural grandeur, heroic tales, and cultural significance make them an essential part of heritage tourism in India.

Travel Tips:

Best Time to Visit: October to March is ideal for fort exploration due to pleasant weather.
Guided Tours: Hiring a local guide enriches your experience with historical anecdotes and cultural context.
Timings: Most forts are open between 9 AM to 5 PM. Check specific timings and ticket prices before planning your visit.

Exploring the forts of Rajasthan is more than just a sightseeing experience—it's a journey into the soul of India’s proud and resilient history. With Amber Fort's architectural brilliance, Mehrangarh Fort's commanding presence, and Chittorgarh Fort's poignant legacy, you’ll witness a rich tapestry of royal heritage, artistic mastery, and spiritual strength.

EXPLORE INDIA

Thursday, 13 October 2022

Rajasthan: Pushkar Fair and Forts of Rajput Kings