Want to explore the glorious forts and palaces of Rajasthan? Keep reading!
Forts and Palaces of Rajasthan are perfect destinations to explore the history of this state. Moreover, these destinations give you a glimpse of the fascinating past of Rajasthan. Some of these palaces and forts, like the Umaid Bhawan Palace, have been converted into luxury hotels. Additionally, many forts and palaces still stand tall and boast splendid architecture. For instance, Amber Fort of Amer has a magnificent fusion of Mughal and Hindu architecture.
In this article, you will get a detailed list of the most significant forts and palaces of Rajasthan. Also, you will get to know about the entry fees, timings, and highlights of each destination.
Summary Table for All Forts and Palaces
| Forts and Palaces | Forts and Palaces |
|---|---|
| Amer Fort | Umaid Bhawan Palace |
| Chittorgarh Fort | Lake Palace |
| Kumbhalgarh Fort | Udai Vilas Palace |
| Mehrangarh Fort | City Palace |
| Jaisalmer Fort | Nahargarh Fort |
| Ranthambore Fort | Neemrana Fort |
| Junagarh Fort | Jag Mandir Palace |
| Taragarh Fort | Alwar City Palace |
| Gagron Fort | Rambagh Palace |
| Hawa Mahal | Bhangarh Fort |
| Jaipur City Palace |
1. Amer Fort, Amer
Amer Fort is a beautiful fort located in Amer. Raja Man Sigh I built the Amber Fort in the 17th century. This fort has both Mughal and Hindu architectural styles. Also, the materials used in the construction of this fort are red sandstone and marble.
On the walls of Amer Fort, you can see beautiful carvings and fabulous paintings. The fort also consists of Sheesh Mahal, Sukh Niwas, Diwan-e-Khas, Jai Mandir, and Diwan-e-Aam. Apart from this, tourists can ride on elephants to reach Amber Fort. Amber Fort also holds a place in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Timings– 8 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee-Rs. 100 for Indians and Rs. 500 for foreigners
Highlights-Elephant rides, Sukh Niwas
Nearby tourist attractions– Jal Mahal, City Palace
Location– Devisinghpura, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302001
2. Chittorgarh Fort, Chittorgarh
Chittorgarh Fort boasts the title of the largest fort in India and is spread over an area of 700 acres. Built by Chitrangada Mori, this fort is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. In the battle of Chittorgarh, 13000 Rajput women and children gave up their lives in this fort to protect the honor of Mewar.
In this fort, you can find memorials, victory towers, water bodies, palaces, and temples. Important things to see in Chhitorgarh Fort are the Vijay Stambh (victory tower), Kirti Stambh, Rana Kumbha Palace, and Padmini’s Palace. This Fort is also a World Heritage Site.
Timings– 9: 45 AM to 5: 15 PM
Entry Fee– Rs. 5 for Indians and Rs. 100 for foreigners
Highlights- Kirti Stambh, Rana Kumbha Palace
Nearby tourist attractions– Bassi Wildlife Sanctuary
Location- Chittor Fort Road, Chittorgarh, Rajasthan 31200
3. Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajsamand
The wall of Kumbalgarh Fort boasts the title of the second-longest wall in the world. Also, Rana Kumba established the Kumbalgarh Fort in the 15th century. Tourists can observe a Rajput military hill architectural style in this fort.
Apart from this, you can pray in various temples of Kumbalgarh Fort, including Ganesha Temple, Charbhuja Temple, and Neel Kanth Mahadeva Temple. Major attractions of this fort are the Badal Mahal, Ram Pol, and Kumbha Palace. Also, this fort has a place on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list.
Timings– 9 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee– Rs. 10 for Indians and Rs. 100 for foreigners
Highlights– Badal Mahal, Jain, and Hindu temples
Nearby tourist attractions– Rajsamand Lake
Location– Kumbhalgarh, Qila Kumbhalgarh, Rajasthan 313325
4. Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur
Mehrangarh Fort is the perfect destination to get a glimpse of the blue region in Jodhpur city. The main purpose of the Mehrangarh fort was to protect the kings and armies of Jodhpur. Also, Mehrangarh Fort has beautiful carvings and large courtyards.
You can see this fort in different movies like Awarapan. The main attractions in this fort include Sheesha Mahal, Moti Mahal, and Phool Mahal. Additionally, tourists can visit the galleries of Mehrangarh Fort to see palanquins, armory, and Marwar paintings. This fort is also a world heritage site.
Timings– 9 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fee– Rs. 70 for Indians and Rs. 600 for foreigners
Highlights– View of Blue City, museums, temples
Near tourist attractions– Balsamand Lake, Umaid Bhawan Palace
Location- P.B # 165, The Fort, Jodhpur 342006, Rajasthan
5. Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer Fort was established in 1156 AD by King Rawal Jaisal. Visitors must pass through four entrances to explore Jaisalmer Fort. This fort is the perfect example of Rajputana architecture.
Inside this fort, you find beautiful Havelis, courtyards, and temples. These include the Jain Temple, Laxminath Temple, and Nathmal Haveli. Moreover, you must visit the Raj Mahal Palace, Royal Palace, and Jaisalmer Fort Palace Museum in Jaisalmer Fort. This fort is also a World Heritage site.
Timings– 9 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee– None
Highlights– Grand entrances, Laxminath Temple
Nearby tourist attractions– Salim Singh ki Haveli
Location– Khejer Para, Manak Chowk, Amar Sagar Pol, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan 345001
6. Ranthambore Fort, Sawai Madhopur
Located in Sawai Madhopur, Ranthambore Fort was constructed by the Chauhan dynasty. Also, the fort covers an area of 4 square kilometers. The architecture of this fort includes large walls, ramparts, and cobbled paths. Inside Ranthambore Fort, you can find Hammirs Court, Badal Mahal, cenotaphs, stepwells, and gates.
Moreover, you can pray in the Trinetra Ganesh Temple of Ranthambore fort. This fort is also the perfect fort for wildlife lovers, as you can find cats, langurs, and birds roaming around the fort.
Timings-6 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee– Rs. 25 for Indians and Rs. 200 for foreigners
Highlights– Jungle safari
Nearby tourist attractions-Ranthambore National Park
Location– 2, Ranthambhor Road, Vigyan Nagar, Sawai Madhopur, Ranthambhore Fort, Rajasthan 322001
7. Junagarh Fort, Bikaner
Junagarh fort was established in 1478 by Rao Bika. After that, the fort underwent reconstruction in 1589. Subsequently, the city of Bikaner was built around Junagarh Fort. Additionally, Junagarh Fort boasts a blend of Mughal, Rajput, and Gujarati styles of architecture.
In the interior of this fort, you can find structures of red and golden sandstones in the fort. Tourists can explore temples, gates, and palaces in the Junagarh Fort. These include Karan Mahal, Ganga Mahal, Daulat pol, Fateh Pol and Har Narayan Temple.
Timings– 10 AM to 4:30 PM
Entry Fee– Rs. 50 for Indians and Rs. 300 for foreigners
Highlights- Grand gateways, Ganga Mahal
Nearby tourist attractions– National Research Centre on Camel
Location– 28C9+Q5Q, Bikaner Fort, Bikaner, Rajasthan 334001
8. Taragarh Fort, Bundi
Taragarh Fort offers mesmerizing views of Bundi. This fort was established by Ajayaraja Chauhan in the 8th century. Taragarh Fort boasts a royal Rajput architectural style and does not have any influence of Mughal architecture.
A unique thing about Taragarh Fort is that it is made from green serpentine stone instead of sandstone. Moreover, the entrances of this fort are Gaugudi Gate, Phuta Door, and Lakshmi Pol. Travelers can get sight of beautiful mahals in Taragarh Fort, like Rani Mahal and Dudha Mahal.
Timings– 9:30 PM to 6:30 PM
Entry Fee– None
Highlights– Rani Mahal, Gateways
Nearby tourist attractions-Sukh Mahal
Location- Taragarh Fort, Taragarh Rd, Taragarh, Ajmer, Rajasthan 305001
9. Gagron Fort, Jhalawar
Gagron Fort boasts the title of the one and only hill and water fort of Rajasthan. This fort is located on the edge of the Kali Sindh River in Jhalawar. Rajput rulers established the Gagron Fort and fought many battles to protect this fort. You can observe Rajput military architecture in this fort.
Apart from this, tourists can find the dargah of Sufi Saint Mitthe Shah Chishti in this fort. Also, you can visit the temples of Lord Ganesha, Shiva, and Durga in this fort. This fort is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Timings– 8 AM to 7 PM
Entry Fee– None
Highlights– Beautiful rivers on three sides
Nearby tourist attractions– Prithvi Vilas Palace
Location– J5HP+59X, Gagron, Rajasthan 325602
10. Bhangarh Fort
Bhangarh Fort is one of the most haunted forts in Rajasthan. Bhan Singh built Bhangarh Fort in honor of his grandfather in the 17th century. The interior of this fort consists of magnificent carvings. You can also see giant walls and domes in this fort. Travelers can also visit temples, havelis, etc., at the entrance of this fort. These include Hanuman Temple, Gopinath Temple, Purohit Ji ki Haveli, etc. Other than this, Bhangarh Fort is associated with many paranormal activities during the nighttime. Hence, tourists can not visit in the nighttime.
Timings– 10 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fee- Rs. 25 for Indians and Rs. 200 for foreigners
Highlights– Paranormal activities, Purohit Ji ki Haveli
Nearby tourist attractions– Sariska Tiger Reserve
Location– Rajgarh Tehsil, Bhangarh, Rajasthan 301410
11. City Palace, Jaipur
City Palace of Jaipur is a very popular tourist destination and the heart of Jaipur city. Sawai Jai Singh II established this beautiful palace in 1732 with a fusion of European, Rajput, and Mughal architectural styles. The royal family of Jaipur still lives in City Palace, Tourists can visit Maharani Palace, Bhaggi Khanna, Mukut Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas, and Chandra Mahal in City Palace. This palace also has four gates and huge courtyards. Infact this the one of the best places to see in jaipur.
Timings- 9:30 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fee- Rs. 200 for Indians and Rs. 700 for foreigners
Highlights- Mukut Mahal, Maharani Palace
Nearby Tourist Attractions- Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal
Location- Gangori Bazaar, J.D.A. Market, Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002
12. Hawa Mahal, Jaipur
Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh built Hawa Mahal in 1799. From the 953 windows of this mahal, Royal Rajput women saw the everyday activities in Jaipur city. Moreover, Hawa Mahal is a magnificent blend of Rajput, Islamic, and Mughal architectural styles.
Some key elements of Hawa Mahal’s architecture are lotus motifs, domed canopies, and fluted pillars. Also, tourists can get a beautiful view of Jaipur from the windows of Hawa Mahal.
Timings– 9 AM to 5:30 PM
Entry Fee– Rs. 50 for Indians and Rs. 200 for foreigners
Highlights- Windows, colorful glasswork
Nearby Tourist Attractions– City Palace, Jal Mahal
Location– Hawa Mahal Rd, Badi Choupad, J.D.A. Market, Pink City, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002
13. Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur
Made from yellow sandstone, Umaid Bhawan Palace covers an area of 26 acres. Maharaja Umaid Singh established this beautiful Palace in 1943. Also, Umaid Bhawan Palace is a beautiful fusion of European and Indian architectural styles.
Additionally, this palace has three parts- a hotel part, a museum part, and a part for the residence of the royal family of Jodhpur. However, the general public can only get a tour of the Museum of Umaid Bhawan Palace. Inside the museum of Umaid Bhawan Palace, you can explore various collections like painting collections, textile collections, etc.
Timings– 10 AM to 4:30 PM
Entry Fee-Rs. 30 for Indians and Rs. 100 for foreigners
Highlights– Umaid Bhawan Museum
Nearby Tourist Attractions– Ghanta Ghar, Jaswant Thada
Location– Circuit House Rd, Cantt Area, Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342006
14. Lake Palace, Udaipur
Lake Palace is situated at the center of Lake Pichola. Maharaja Jagat Singh laid the foundation of Lake Palace in 1746. Subsequently, The Taj Group of Hotels has taken ownership of Lake Palace and transformed it into a luxurious hotel. Additionally, this palace provides breathtaking views of Aravali hills and other palaces.
Inside Lake Palace, you can find fountains, gardens, terraces, and various rooms. These are luxurious rooms and have stunning stained glass work and crystal artwork. They include Phool Mahal, Khush Mahal, and Bada Mahal.
Timings– Anytime
Entry Fee– None
Highlights– Classic car collection, Lake Pichola
Nearby tourist attractions- Jagmandir, City Palace
Location– Jal Mahal, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302002
15. Udai Vilas Palace, Dungarpur
The Udai Vilas Palace is a luxurious hotel with elements of Mewari architecture. This palace was constructed by Maharawal Udai Singh II in the 19th century. The important elements of the architecture of this palace are domes, fountains, and ghumtis.
Various colors like tangerine, saffron, and pomegranate enhance the beauty of Udai Vilas Palace Palace. Also, this palace consists of 90 rooms, courtyards, and swimming pools in the Udai Vilas Palace. Guests can find beautiful dining halls and relaxing spas in this palace.
Timings– Anytime
Entry Fee– Nil
Highlights– Mewari architecture, luxurious rooms, etc.
Nearby tourist attractions- Ek Thambia Mahal
Location- NH 11, Fatehpur Sikri Road, Bharatpur, Rajasthan 321001
16. City Palace, Udaipur
City Palace is located on the edge of Lake Pichola in Udaipur. Several rulers of the Mewar dynasty contributed to the construction of the City Palace in Udaipur in a span of 400 years. You can see a fusion of Chinese, European, and Medieval architectural styles in the city palace of Udaipur.
The whole complex of City Palace consists of 11 palaces connected by corridors and chowks. Significant structures of this palace are Dilkhush Mahal, Amar Vilas, Bhim Vilas, Sheesh Mahal, and Moti Mahal.
Timings– 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Entry Fee– Rs. 300 for adults and Rs. 100 for children
Highlights– Dilkhush Mahal, Amar Vilas
Nearby tourist attractions- Jagdish Temple, Jagmandir
Location- City Palace Complex, Udaipur, Rajasthan, 313001
17. Nahargarh Fort, Jaipur
Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh built the Nahargarh Fort in 1734. This fort offers spectacular views of the Jaipur city. Additionally, you can admire the Indo-European architecture of this fort. For a spiritual environment, tourists can visit the temple of Nahar Singh Bhomia in Nahargarh Fort.
The most significant structure in this fort is Madhavendra Palace, which is an annual sculpture gallery of the fort. Another interesting place in this fort is the Jaipur Wax Museum. This museum features wax statues of famous people like Sachin Tendulkar, Amitabh Bachchan, etc.
Timings– 10 AM to 5:30 PM
Entry Fee– Rs. 50 for Indians and RS. 200 for foreigners
Highlights– Jaipur Wax Museum, Madhavendra Palace
Nearby tourist attractions- Amer Fort, Jaigarh Fort
Location– Krishna Nagar, Brahampuri, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302007
18. Neemrana Fort, Neemrana
Neemrana Fort Palace is a luxury resort surrounded by the Aravalli Ranges. Hasan Khan Mewati laid the foundation of Neemrana Fort in the 16th century. This fort is spread over an area of 10 hectares and boasts a unique blend of Rajasthani and modern-style architecture.
The fort consists of ayurvedic spas, hanging gardens, and a swimming pool. Neemrana Fort Palace is also famous for French and Rajasthani cuisines. Additionally, this fort is an ideal destination for marriage ceremonies and cultural events.
Timings– 9 AM to 3 PM
Entry Fee– Rs. 1700 for weekdays and Rs.2000 for weekends
Highlights– Ziplining
Nearby tourist attractions– Sariska National Park
Location– 15th Century, Delhi-Jaipur Highway 122nd Milestone, Delhi – Jaipur Expy, Neemrana, Rajasthan 301705
19. Jag Mandir Palace, Udaipur
Jag Mandir Palace is located in the center of Lake Pichola. Maharaja Jagat Singh established Jag Mandir Palace for his residence. Also, this palace is made from yellow sandstone and marble. You can find elements of Islamic architecture in the palace.
Key attractions in Jag Mandir palace include Gul Mahal, Bara Patharon Ka Mahal, Kunwar Pada Ka Mahal, and Zenana Mahal. After visiting these attractions, tourists can take a walk in the beautiful garden of this mahal, which consists of jasmine flowers, roses, and palm trees.
Timings– 10 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee– Rs. 450 per person for a boat ride from City Palace. After 3 PM, the ticket price is Rs. 700 per person.
Highlights– Gul Mahal, Zenana Mahal
Nearby tourist attractions- City Palace, Jagdish Temple
Location- Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan 313001
20. Alwar City Palace
Alwar City Palace is an essential landmark of Alwar. Raja Bakhtayar Singh constructed Alwar City Palace in 1793. This palace is a splendid example of Indo-Islamic architecture. The entrances of this palace are Andheri Gate, Kishan Pol, Jai Pol, and Suraj Pol.
Following these gates, travelers can find Krishna temples. Moreover, travelers can admire murals and mirror works in the interior of Alwar City Palace. Apart from this, you can visit the museum of the palace, which preserves the history of this palace. This museum has a collection of coins, miniature paintings, arms, metal objects, and sculptures.
Timings– 10 AM to 4:30 PM
Entry Fee– Rs. 5
Highlights– Museum, Krishna Temples
Nearby tourist attractions- Vijay Mandir Palace, Jai Pol
Location– City Palace, collectorate, Mohalla Ladiya, Alwar, Rundh Bhakhera, Rajasthan 301001
21. Rambagh Palace, Jaipur
Maharaja of Jaipur used to live in the Rambagh Palace and later converted it into a hotel that offers dining options, spas, swimming pools, and many other services.
The Royal family of Jaipur established this palace in 1835. Also, Rambagh Palace is a magnificent example of Rajput architecture. Inside Rambagh Palace, you can see several gardens with pools, fountains, and flowers. Moreover, guests can enjoy a tour, take part in cultural events, and shop for souvenirs in this palace.
Timings- Anytime
Entry Fee– According to the selection of room.
Highlights- Cultural events, luxurious services
Nearby tourist attractions- Albert Hall Museum, Birla Mandir
Location- Bhawani Singh Rd, Rambagh, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302005
Conclusion
Rajasthan is a marvelous state with a variety of forts, palaces, cuisine, and art forms. These forts and palaces narrate the history of various Rajasthan kings beautifully. Also, you can admire the unbeatable architecture and tourist attractions in the forts, like the Lake Palace and the Junagarh Fort. You must visit the palaces and forts of Rajasthan to witness the beauty of this state. Additionally, you can even enjoy a stay in palaces like the Rambagh Palace and Umaid Bhawan Palace, which offer luxurious services and traditional cuisines to guests.
To visit these magnificent forts and palaces, you must check out our Rajasthan Tourism Packages for an unforgettable journey to Rajasthan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which hill forts in Rajasthan should I visit with my family?
You should visit Amber Fort, Jaisalmer Fort, and Jaigarh Fort with your family.
Q: Which are the oldest hill forts of Rajasthan?
The oldest hill forts of Rajasthan are Chittorgarh Fort, Ranthambore Fort, and Kumbalgarh Fort.
Q: Which hill fort is the largest hill fort in Rajasthan?
Chittorgarh hill fort is the largest hill fort in Rajasthan.
Q: When should I visit Rajasthan?
You should visit Rajasthan between October and March.
Q: What are some fort resorts in Rajasthan?
Fort resorts in Rajasthan are Neemrana Fort, City Palace, Jal Mahal, and Umaid Bhawan Palace.
Q: Which forts of Rajasthan have a place in the UNESCO World Heritage site list?
Forts of Rajasthan, which have a place in the UNESCO World Heritage site list, include Chittor Fort, Jaisalmer Fort, Ranthambore Fort, and Amber Fort.
Q: Which is the oldest fort in Rajasthan?
Hanumangarh Fort is the oldest fort in Rajasthan.
Q: Why is Rajasthan famous?
Rajasthan is famous for its culture, cuisine, forts, palaces, and amazing tourist destinations.
Q: Why are the forts of Rajasthan famous?
Rajasthan forts are famous because they have magnificent architecture, and they enable travelers to learn about the history of rajasthan.
Q: How many forts does Rajasthan have?
Rajasthan has more than 250 forts. They include the Mehrangarh Fort, Chittorgarh Fort, Jaisalmer Fort, etc.
