Amber
(pronounced Amer) is situated about 11 kilometres from Jaipur
and was the ancient citadel of the ruling Kachhawa clan of
Amber, before the capital was shifted in the plains to present
day Jaipur.
The
Amber Fort set in picturesque and rugged hills is a fascinating
blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. Constructed by Raja
Man Singh I in 1592 and completed by Sawai Jai Singh I the
fort is made in red sand stone and white marble. The rugged
forbidding exterior belies an inner paradise with a beautiful
fusion of art and architecture. Amber is the classic and
romantic fort- palace with a magnificent aura. The interior
wall of the palace depicts expressive painting scenes with
carvings, precious stones and mirror settings. In the foreground
is the Maota Lake providing a breathtaking look. Built mainly
for the warring enemies as a safe place, the heavily structured
walls could defend the residents within the ramparts of
the fort.