The gems of the fort
As you wander the winding pathways that lead up to the towering ramparts of Amer Fort, a sense of anticipation and wonder begins to take hold. What secrets and treasures lie within the walls of this magnificent palace?
Your curiosity is piqued as you pass through the Suraj Pol, the grand main entrance that makes your way to the Jaleb Chowk, a central courtyard that was once a parade ground for the Army. It is the same place where soldiers would display the spoils of their victories to the public.
Your next stop will be the Diwan-e-Aam, a hall dedicated to the public, where the ruler met face-to-face with his public, lending an attentive ear to their concerns and aspirations.
Sukh Niwas, also called Sukh Mahal, welcomes you with its exquisite sandalwood entrance door. This ingeniously designed palace boasted a sophisticated cooling system with water-supplied pipes, creating a remarkable air-conditioned ambience ahead of its time. The fort is also home to several other attractions like Jas Mandir, zenana (where the women lived), the royal garden, and the palace of Man Singh.
But the true jewel of Amer Fort lies in the Sheesh Mahal, the palace of mirrors. As you enter this opulent chamber, you are immediately captivated by the thousands of tiny mirrors that adorn the walls and ceilings, catching the light and refracting it into a kaleidoscopic display.
Hidden beneath the majestic walls of the fort lie a network of underground tunnels, linking it to the formidable Jaigarh Fort. While some sections of these tunnels have been meticulously restored, offering a glimpse into the past, others remain shrouded in mystery.