Introduction:
Just 11 kms from Jaipur, Amber fort is a splendid fort constructed in a scenic locale. Being a perfect blend of Hindu and Muslim architecture, Jaipur attracts travellers from around the globe. Built in 16 the century by Raja Man Singh, the fort stands as a proud reminder of the exotic building skills of the artisans of the yesteryears. This fort from yore days unfurls the legacies of the time when the august rulers imagined the unmatched craftmanship. Made up of red sand stone and white marble, the Jaipur Amber fort palace presents a picturesque site. Covering the interior walls of the palace are painting scenes with carvings, precious stones and mirror settings. The Maota Lake, in the foreground of the court, offers an amazing sight. There are four sections in the Amber fort. Leading up to the palace is the main stairway situated in Jaleb Chowk, the main courtyard. Jaleb Chowk also served as the area for welcoming the armies returning after winning. The main gate that leads to the Jaleb Chowk is known as Surajpol.

Other attractions of the Amer palace of Rajasthan include:

Shila Mata Temple
Entry into Shila Mata Temple is through Singh Pol. The temple is devoted to Shila Mata ( Goddess Kali), the goddess of victory and houses a black marble idol of the goddess which was brought here from Jessore by Raja Man Sigh in 1604. You would find nine images of Goddess Durga (strength) and ten forms of Goddess Saraswati ( knowledge) which are carved on the silver gates of the temple. The mandap of this temple is made up of white marble contrasting the colours of the idols.

Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience)
Diwan-i-Khas show cases a rich amalgam of Rajput and Mughal architecture. The architecture is showcased in the fascinating Diwan-i-khas, Sukh Niwas, Jai Mandir and Jas Mandir. Decorated with beautiful mirror work, Diwan -I - Khas has wonderful carvings on the walls and the ceilings. The major attractions of these halls are miniature murals made of coloured glasses which depicts Radha and Krishna.

Diwan-i-Am or Hall of Public Audience
This is a delicate palace which you would come across on your travel to Amber fort. This forty pillared pavillion is perfect example of intricate craftmanship and was constructed by Mirza Raja Jai Singh. The pavilion worked as a place where Maharajahs used to recieve its general public and used to hear their pertaining problems. The southern area of this palace was kept clear so that the royal ladies could watch the proceedings of Diwan-I-Am from the Zenana house ( Women's quarters).

Zenana
The fourth courtyard houses Zenana, the palace of the women. A common corridor connects all the rooms of the alace. This was done to provide privacy to the Maharaja while visiting his Queens.

Sukh Niwas
Sukh Niwas was the pleasurable residence of the Maharaja. For the purpose of cooling the palace, a channel for water flow was laid in the palace. The palace also has an ivory inlaid sandalwood door.

Ganesh Pol & Suhaag Mandir
Ganesh Pol forms another attractions in Amber fort and is an imposing gateway which lies south of Diwan-i-am. The gateway has been painted beautifully and endorse typical Rajasthani motifs. From Ganesh Pol, you can move to beautiful garden or Charbagh, which is based on the Mughal patten of gardens.

Jai Mandir
Behind the exquisite Ganesh Pol, a gate, are the residential apartments of the Maharaja. Amongst them, is the Jai Mandir, the hall of victory. It is known for its inlaid panel and dazzling mirror ceiling.