| Amber
was once, the capital of the Mina tribes, believed to be the original inhabitants
of this region. Located up on the hills that surround Jaipur, the fort, sprawled
along the Maotha Lake, boasts of a massive complex gateways, courts, stairways
and pillared pavilions, and palaces that recall the glory and wealth, of Amber's
association with the Mughals. This complex was built by Raja Man Singh, Mirza
Raja Jai Singh and Sawai Jai Singh, over a period of about two centuries.
The front courtyard of the complex, is adorned
with the magnificent, pillared hall of the Diwan - i - Am, and the two - tiered
painted gateway Ganesh Pol. The palace of mirrors, Sheesh Mahal, is of special
interest. It has walls inlaid with exquisite mirrors. The Jas Mandir, perched
on the upper floor, is a superb amalgam of Mughal and Rajput style of architecture,
as is evident from the exquisitely carved Jali screens, and fine mirror and stucco
work. For detailed information on how to reach there and where to stay,
see Jaipur
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