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The Hill Forts of Rajasthan consist of six forts located across northern India. These forts were grouped together and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013. The fort series includes Chittor Fort in Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh Fort in Rajsamand, Ranthambore Fort in Sawai Madhopur, Gagron Fort in Jhalawar, Amer Fort in Jaipur, and Jaisalmer Fort in Jaisalmer.
Rajasthan is home to over 100 forts built on hilly and mountainous terrain. Initially, the Hill Forts of Rajasthan were nominated to UNESCO as a series of five Rajput forts in the Aravalli Range. These forts were constructed and expanded between the 5th and 18th centuries CE by various Rajput rulers.
Although Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur is also a hill fort, it is not part of the UNESCO listing. Some of these forts are famous for their defensive walls that stretch up to 20 kilometers and have ancient water harvesting systems still in use today.
Selection
The Hill Forts of Rajasthan are a collection of six forts spread across northern India, which were collectively designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013. These forts include Chittor Fort in Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh Fort in Rajsamand, Ranthambore Fort in Sawai Madhopur, Gagron Fort in Jhalawar, Amer Fort in Jaipur, and Jaisalmer Fort in Jaisalmer.
Rajasthan boasts over 100 forts, many perched on hilly and mountainous terrains. The Hill Forts of Rajasthan were originally submitted to UNESCO as a group of five Rajput forts located in the Aravalli Range. These forts were built and expanded between the 5th and 18th centuries CE by various Rajput kings.
Although Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur is also a prominent hill fort, it is not included in the UNESCO list. Some of these forts are renowned for their massive defensive walls, which extend up to 20 kilometers, and their ancient water harvesting systems, which are still in use today.
Chittor Fort
Chittor Fort, also called Chittod Fort, is one of India’s largest forts, located in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan. Built on a hill 180 meters high, it spans 280 hectares and overlooks the Berach River valley. Originally named Chitrakut, the fort was constructed by Chitrangada Mori, a Mori Rajput ruler. According to legend, the fort’s name is linked to its builder, while another tale credits the hero Bhima for creating a spring that formed the Bhimlat Kund reservoir. Small 9th-century Buddhist stupas have also been discovered near Jaimal Patta Lake.
Kumbhalgarh Fort
Kumbhalgarh Fort, also known as the Great Wall of India, is a massive fortress in the Aravalli Hills of Mewar. It is one of the largest fort complexes in the world. The fort’s early history is unclear, but before Rana Kumbha built the current structure, a smaller fort called Matsyaendra Durg was constructed by King Samprati of the Maurya dynasty. The present fort was designed by the architect Mandan under Rana Kumbha of the Sisodia Rajput clan. With over 70 temples, including Jain and Hindu temples, Kumbhalgarh remains one of the most impressive forts built by Rana Kumbha, who constructed 32 forts in his domain.
Amber Fort
Amber Fort, located in Amer, is a major attraction in Jaipur, known for its stunning architecture, large walls, gates, and cobbled pathways. Perched on a hill, the fort overlooks Maota Lake, the primary water source for the palace. Originally a Meena state ruled by the Susawat clan, it became the capital of Dhundhar after Kakil Deo defeated the Meenas. The fort was first built by Raja Man Singh and later expanded by Jai Singh I. Successive rulers improved the fort until the Kachwaha rulers moved their capital to Jaipur in 1727 under Sawai Jai Singh II.
Ranthambore Fort
Ranthambore Fort is a historic hill fort located within Ranthambore National Park, near Sawai Madhopur in Rajasthan. The fort has played a significant role in the history of the region. While its exact origins are unclear, it is believed that a settlement existed at the site as early as the 8th century A.D. The fort was likely constructed by the Chahamanas, with building work starting around the mid-10th century and continuing for several centuries. In the 13th century, the Delhi Sultanate briefly captured the fort. Today, Ranthambore Fort offers breathtaking views of Ranthambore National Park and remains a popular tourist destination.
Jaisalmer Fort
Jaisalmer Fort, located in the city of Jaisalmer, is one of the few “living forts” in the world, with nearly one-fourth of the old city’s population still residing within its walls. Built in 1156 AD, it is the second oldest fort in Rajasthan. The fort was constructed by Rawal Jaisal, a Bhati Rajput, who was dissatisfied with an earlier fort at Lodhruva. Consequently, he founded the city of Jaisalmer and made it his new capital. Today, Jaisalmer Fort stands as a prominent tourist destination and a symbol of Rajasthan’s rich heritage and history.
Gagron Fort
Gagron Fort, located in the Jhalawar district of Rajasthan, is a unique hill fort known for its combination of hill and water features. Built in the 12th century by Rajput king Bijaldev Singh Dod, the fort later came under the control of rulers such as Sher Shah and Akbar. Positioned at the confluence of the Ahu and Kali Sindh rivers, Gagron Fort is surrounded by water on three sides, with a moat on the fourth. This distinctive design earned it the name “Jaladurg” or “Water Fort”. The fort has witnessed 14 battles and two dramatic incidents involving jaguars with its queens.
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Conclusion
The six hill forts of Rajasthan, collectively designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, highlight the architectural brilliance and historical importance of the Rajput era. These forts—Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh, Ranthambore, Amer, Jaisalmer, and Gagron—symbolize strength, courage, and cultural heritage. Each fort features a unique design, shaped by the rugged terrain and strategic locations, often blending elements of hill, water, and forest. Together, these forts narrate tales of royal battles, legendary rulers, and the rich history of Rajasthan, attracting visitors from across the globe to marvel at their grandeur.
