Jaigarh Fort

Jaigarh Fort crowns the "Hill of Eagles" (Cheel ka Teela) directly above Amer Fort, to which it is connected by fortified walls and a hidden passage. Rugged, austere and superbly preserved, it was the military stronghold and the great armoury of the Kachhwaha rulers — and, famously, it is said never to have been conquered.

History

Jaigarh was built in 1726 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II to protect Amer and its treasury. Its name means the "Fort of Victory". For generations it housed one of the most important cannon foundries in India, and legend long held that a fabulous royal treasure lay hidden somewhere within its walls.

Jaivana — the great cannon

The fort's most celebrated possession is Jaivana, cast here in 1720 and long regarded as the largest wheeled cannon on wheels in the world. Its barrel is over six metres long, and although it was a demonstration of the kingdom's power, it is said to have been fired in earnest only once. The cannon still sits on its massive rotating carriage and is one of the fort's great attractions.

Architecture and highlights

Jaigarh is a marvel of practical engineering as much as defence. An elaborate system of channels and vast underground reservoirs harvested rainwater to sustain the garrison through long sieges. Within the walls are an armoury and museum displaying swords, shields, muskets and cannonballs; a central palace complex; watchtowers; and gardens. The ramparts give commanding views over Amer, the Maota Lake and the surrounding hills.

Visiting tips

Wear sturdy shoes, as the fort is large and involves a good deal of walking over uneven ground. It combines naturally with a visit to Amer Fort below — allow a full morning for both. The elevated position makes it wonderfully cool and breezy, and the views alone reward the climb.