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| Riding An Elephant To The Amber Fort |
About seven miles to the north of Jaipur, lies the scenic Amber Fort. This former royal palace was constructed in 1592 by Raj Man Singh, as the main home for the Kachawah Raj Puts, and remained the center of politics and commerce for this part of India for centuries. The place is simply massive, with hundreds of rooms and countless buildings which are all surrounded by thick ramparts and formidable gates. The whole structure is precariously perched at the summit of a very large hill, with extraordinarily steep cliffs surrounding it. This defensive position and thick imposing walls provided immense protection to the city and her people, The sixteenth century was a time of fierce conflict been warring Maharajahs as well as from barbaric tribes from the north. So a series of defensive structures were a true necessity back then, and an absolute breath taking site for visitors today.
As we arrive at the base of the hill, I am struck by the colorful sight of the elephants. There had to be at least twenty of these massive animals, and they were all lined up like large books on a shelf. Each of these magnificent creatures were garbed in bright red and vibrant blue adornments, and they looked like they were ready to visit a royal palace or at least ready to tote two middle aged Americans to the top of a hill. So we proceeded to climb to the top of a rickety wooden platform in order to mount our rambunctious elephant. Here we sat in a very comfortable basket, as our young turban clad driver got our elephant moving up the steep paved path. We slowly rock back and forth as we patiently ascend to the entrance of the fort. From here you could see the gorgeous blue waters of Maota Lake and the roughed deserts that spread throughout this region of India. As we approach the intricately crafted main gate, you cannot help but feel that you were in the middle of a tale from the Arabian Nights or a Rupert Kipling novel.
As we passed through the gate and into Jaleb Chowk or the main court yard, we are serenaded by a man playing a sitar. Talk about setting the mood for this incredible place. We dismounted the elephant and continued up a series of staircases to the palace. Here you can see the Diwan-i-Am or Hall of Public Audiences. Here the Raj would hear the complaints of his people and make official rulings in disputes between individuals. This part of the palace complex is adorned with thick alabaster panels, ornate wood carvings, and frescoes of Hindu deities. For a place that has been abandoned since the early 1800, it is in exceptional condition. As you continue through the fort, you will come across a hall of mirrors. This room is full of elegantly carved mirrors that were imported from Belgium, in an era where mirrors were more valuable than gold. Also, you will discover a series of fine gardens in the middle of this ancient palace. The Char Bagh Garden is still well maintained and provides a lush contrast to the dry aridness that surrounds the Amber Fort. Finally, keep your eyes open, because you will periodically come across a large troop of Hanuman Langur that roam the palace. These are the official monkeys of India and they are simply adorable.
So as we board a vintage World War II jeep to take us back down the slope of the hill, I look back at the Amber Fort, and cannot believe how incredibly fortunate I am. I have traveled all over the world and have seen some amazing things, but this was truly an experience to remember!
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