Ranthambore Fort One of the most beautiful forts built in its era, it showcases the historical developments of Rajasthan. Lying near the place called Sawai Madhopur it can be easily reached from Jaipur by road.

Flashback

The Chauhan Rajputs were the architects of the fortress of Ranthambore. The Chauhan King Prithvi Raj III was subsequently defeated by Muhhammad of Ghaur in 1192. The Sultan of Illtumish captured Ranthambore in 1226,but it was taken over by the Chauhans in 1236 after the death of Illtumish. Then the fort was again captured by the Mewars under Rana Hamir Singh (1226-1364) and Rana Khumba (1433-1468). It was captured by Rana Udai Singh (1768-1473), and then passed on to HADA Rajputs. Then it was captured by the King of Gujarat (1532-1555) from whom it was taken over by Mughal Emperor Akbar. The fortress was last captured by Kachwaha Maharajas of Jaipur, and it remained a part of Jaipur till independence of India.

The Fort

There are three temples inside the fort dedicated to Ganesha, Shiva and Ramlalji built in 12th and 13th century. The fort is also said to be the site where a number of Jauhars (ritual mass suicide by immolation of self) in the Rajput History. From a distance the fort almost looks indispensible and incredible looking out over the lotus filled lake of Padma Talab which lies in the rampants. It has an area of 405sq kms giving a view of the Badal Mahal ( Cloud Palace).

In and Around

» Pushkar Ka Mela : In the month of Kartika (October - November), in Pushkar there is this Camel Fair held on one of the holiest days of Hindus. Each year around 200,000 people converge here, bringing along them around 50,000 camels and cattle for trade. The place blends itself into with musicians, mystics, tourists, traders, devotees and camel crews. Its a MUST SEE FESTIVE.

Not to be Missed

» Ganesh Chaturthi :The Ranthambore Tiger reserve has a beautiful temple of Ganesha (Lord of Intellect). Here each year in the month of September/October the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with Pomp and Show. It is thought that all auspicious functions of Hindus should began with the first invitation to Lord Ganesha. This festival marks this school of thought.