Amer commands a majestic setting on a rocky mountain that overlooks the pink rooftops and surrounding hills of Jaipur. Prior to the founding of Jaipur, Amer served as the capital of the Kachwaha clan for 700 years. Today well-preserved battlements and forts and artistic temples stand as a living testament to a former regal glory.
The pink and yellow-hued Amber Fort (aka Amer Fort) is a fusion of Hindu and Mughal architectural styles. Enter via the colossal Chand Pol and Suraj Pol gates to the Jaleb Chowk courtyard, where soldiers once paraded their plunder. Admire the extravagant mirror palace Sheesh Mahal and browse modern art at the Artchill Gallery. The Mughal-style Dil Aaram Bagh garden and Kesar Kyari Garden have peaceful lawns on the banks of the fort’s Maotha Lake.
Dozens of Hindu and Jain temples line the busy streets of the town center. Examine the stone carvings of Jagat Shiromani Temple and drink in the views from the 12th-century Badrinath Temple. Panna Meena ka Kund impresses with its maze-like staircases that lead down to a step well. Learn about the art of woodblock printing at the Anokhi Museum.
Enjoy a moment to yourself at the tranquil Sagar Lake. From here an undulating defensive wall crosses a hill to Jaigarh Fort, built to protect Amber Fort. Don’t miss the fort’s Jaivana Cannon, which is one of the world’s biggest wheeled cannons. Go for a walk around Man Sagar Lake, where Jal Mahal temple appears to float in the water.
Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in the chance to interact with elephants at the Elefantastic animal sanctuary. Find big cats, deer, hippos, sloth bears and hundreds of bird species at Nahargarh Biological and Zoological Park.
Located about 6 miles (10 kilometers) north of Jaipur, Amer is a great daytrip destination from the Pink City. Use affordable taxis and auto rickshaws to get here or catch a local bus from Jaipur’s Badi Chaupar market.
