Forts & Palaces

This collection captures Jaipur's grandest heritage — the hilltop forts and royal palaces that define the Pink City's skyline. You'll see Amer Fort reflected in Maota Lake, the honeycomb façade of Hawa Mahal, the courtyards of the City Palace, and the ramparts of Nahargarh and Jaigarh overlooking the city.

Historical significance. These monuments were built between the 16th and 18th centuries by the Kachhwaha Rajputs, most notably Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, who founded Jaipur in 1727. Together they form part of the UNESCO-recognised heritage of Rajasthan and tell the story of a powerful princely state — a blend of Rajput strength and Mughal refinement.

Where they are. Amer, Jaigarh and Nahargarh sit on the Aravalli hills to the north of the city, while the City Palace and Hawa Mahal stand in the heart of the walled old city, within easy walking distance of one another.

Best photography times. Early morning gives soft, warm light on the sandstone and thinner crowds at Amer; late afternoon into sunset is magical from Nahargarh's ramparts, when the whole city glows below. The reflection of Amer in Maota Lake is clearest at dawn.

Explore these monuments in detail on our historical places pages, or plan a visit with our one-day Jaipur itinerary.