India is amongst the elder in the world family. The early civilizations and the not-yet-plundered wealth of the country gave rise to many religions, lifestyles, and so on. And, with it came infrastructure. This article emphasizes on forts and palaces of royal India before most of its wealth was stolen through political and foreign malpractices.
Take a look at the following palaces and forts with exciting pasts, and cruise through the real Royal India:
1. City Palace, Jaipur
City Palace resides in Rajasthan, which means ‘Land of the Kings.’ The exotic architecture is a blend of Mughal, Europeans, Rajput, and the royal India architecture ‘Shilpa Shastra.’ City Palace is the coming together of culture, art, science, and design.
Its design is like a grid. Hence, merely taking a walk through the Palace is an adventure. However, there is a little too much to explore!
You will find museums, artifacts, paintings, honeycomb, murals, stunning stonework, mosaics, and other structures marvelously placed inside the Palace.
2. Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur
Rao Joda Built one of the most massive forts in the country called the Mehrangarh Fort in 1459.
Intimidating walls guard the fort, situated at an elevation of 410 feet.
As soon as you make your way towards the fort, you will see the majestic seven gate entrance. Every gate has a historic significance connected.
Mehrangarh Fort is not only for archaeologists, historical buffs offbeat traveler but always for the adventure junkie.
Yes, you can zip line from the top of the magical fort. Security and precautionary training are given before you glide above the Blue City.
3. Mysore Palace, Mysuru
Frequent visitors to India must be waiting for Mysore Palace to be on the list, and rightly so! The British Raj is predominantly present in the Indo-Saracenic Architecture.
Mysore Palace is the former Palace of the royal family and is also the official residence.
It is a must-visit while traveling to India. Mysore Palace is the second most-visited Indian historical and iconic landmark after the Taj Mahal.
Also, do not miss the impressive light and sound show. The cherry on top, tariff for the event is included in the ticket.
4. Gwalior Fort, Gwalior
Nestled in the hills, Gwalior Fort is ‘the pearl amongst fortresses.’ It is located in Madhya Pradesh.
A must-experience light and sound show take place every day. The interactive show makes you feel like you are a part of the heritage and history linked with the fort. So, head to the amphitheater at the ‘Man’ Mandir to catch all the fun!
Man Mandir is perhaps the most aesthetically sound part of the majestic fort. The exact year of construction is unknown.
However, one can revisit the days gone by and step into the Royal side of India.
5. Golkonda Fort, Hyderabad
Perfectly placed 9 km away from the Hussain Sagar Lake, Golconda Fort is one of India’s best-preserved monuments. The landmark also preserves some of the fascinating stories.
For instance, Golconda Fort was used to storing the prominent Koh-I-Noor diamond.
Further, the architecture of the place adds to the travel experience so, if you clap while at the bottom of the fort, the echo travels to the top of the fort.
Just like other forts, Golconda hosts a light and sound show that is particularly famous amongst visitors. Become a part of the rich history of the Golkonda Fort.
6. Fatehpur Sikri
The legendary Mughal emperor, Akbar founded the city of Fatehpur Sikri in the 16th century. It is the most excellent example of Mughal architecture. Therefore, it is the current world heritage site.
Fatehpur Sikri contains multiple monuments such as Buland Darwaza, Tomb of Salim Chisti, Jodha Bai’s Palace, Jama Masjid, Diwan-I-Kas, Diwan-I-Aam, Naubat Khana, lower Haramsara, Khwabgah, and other fascinating historical complexes.
The legendary Emperor Akbar also built three palaces for three of his favorite wives. Each followed a different religion, namely Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam.
Archaeologists or anyone interested in history will instantly fall in love with this place. Take a day trip to explore the beautiful former city.
7. Hawa Mahal, Jaipur
Hawa Mahal was built in 1799. The location of the fort might seem uncanny to some travelers because of its location right at the intersection of a major road in the City.
This is so because Hawa Mahal was initially built for the royal women to view the grand festivities happening on the street discreetly.
The fort almost looks like a crown due to its pyramid-like construction. Also, the fort has 953 ‘jharokhas’ or windows.
‘Hawa Mahal’ translates to ‘Air Fort.’ The name originated from window mesh installed inside the building. It allows the fresh air to enter and circulate the fort.
8. Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Jaisalmer Fort, is located in the Thar Desert.
The exotic location of this fort-cum-mini-city attracts tourists all year round. It is one of India’s Hill Forts.
It is the only living fort of India. There are shops and hotels on its premises. Also, you can spend a night in the ancient ‘haveli,’ the traditional Indian mansion.
Tourists can enjoy a desert safari, jeep safari, camel ride, camping, and other fun activities. Sand surfing is a fantastic experience here.
However, the most interesting thing about this fort is that it vanishes at dawn.
As the sun-rays touch the humongous yellow-colored walls of the fort, it gives an illusion of being invisible against the backdrop of the desert.
9. Kumbhalgarh Fort, Kumbhalgarh
Thirteen mountain peaks surround Kumbhalgarh fort. It is built at the foothills of Aravalli.
The fort has immense historical significance. Moreover, one of India’s most influential kings, Maharana Pratap.
The main buildings inside the fort include Kumbha Palace, water reservoirs, Jain temples, and more.
Moreover, the panoramic views of the captivating surroundings are picture-perfect.
Also, photographers should check out the ‘Badal Mahal’ for its scenic views.
Further, a light and sound show about the Rajput Royals that runs for about 45 minutes is also put up.
India is the coming together of very different elements, culturally as well as geographically.
When it comes to forts and palaces, there are forts over the hills, by the seaside, on the islands, even in the middle of the sea, each more picturesque than the other.
So, score online flight tickets to India now and don’t forget to pack your cameras as every step has a fascinating sight to behold.