Ranthambore’s massive fort has been the target of numerous attacks and conquerors. Because of the difficulty in capturing the fort and the fort’s well-planned structure, it served as a strong deterrent to the invaders. The Ranthambore Fort is located within the Ranthambore National Park, which was once home to the Maharajas of the Jaipur dynasty’s hunting grounds. It is located in the Jaipur town of Sawai Madhopur.
According to the Government of Rajasthan’s Amber Development & Management Authority, it was built during the reign of Sapaldaksha in the mid-tenth century. The stunning remains of the fort have artistic merit that may captivate the eyes and imaginations of anybody who sees the work of art. Because of its history of defending the Rajput Empire from foreign invaders, the fort is seen as a symbol of power. The fort is today a popular tourist destination, attracting both historians and ordinary people interested in learning more about the area’s architecture and history.
History of Ranthambore fort
The fort was taken from the Yadavas by Prithviraj Chauhan in the 12th century. The fort was attacked several times throughout the spread of Muslim control in order to gain power over the Rajputs and the western half of the kingdom. Khilji eventually conquered it by paying the minister. This fort serves as a reminder of the events and is a historically significant monument in India.
About Ranthambore Fort
The Ranthambhore Fort was an important feature of the Shakambhari kingdom of Chahamana. Maharaja Jayanta is reported to have created it.
It was ruled by the Yadavas before being taken over by the Muslim rulers of Delhi. Ranthambhore’s most powerful monarch was Hammir Deo. The fort is home to the following pols:
- Navlakha Pol: It’s the first gate with an arch facing east, measuring 3.20 meters wide. Guard chambers and gun slits are provided, and the structure is composed of ashlar masonry. The existing wooden doors were provided during the era of Sawai Jagat Singh of Jaipur, according to a copper plate inscription fastened to the entrance.
- Hathia Pol: The second gate is 3.20 meters wide and faces southeast. It is bordered on one side by natural rock and on the other by the fort wall. Over the gate is a rectangular guardroom.
- Ganesh Pol: This is the third gate on the south side, with a span of 3.10 meters. The gate’s beam is supported by brackets, which are topped with a recessed ogee arch. The rock is affixed to the eastern side of the gate.
- Andheri Pol: The final gate, facing north, spans 3.30 meters. It is surrounded on two sides by fortification walls and has a recessed ogee arch with projection balconies on both sides.
- Delhi Gate is a 4.70m wide gate in the northwest corner of the city, facing north. There is a recessed arch on it. A handful of guard cells are also present at the gate.
- Satpol: On the western flank of the fort, along the nullah, it is the grandest gateway facing south. It has a width of 4.70 meters and two-story guard cells. Both sides of the recess are bordered by projection balconies. Brick masonry is used to construct the battlements at the summit.
- Suraj Pol: It is a modest entrance facing east along the eastern fortification, in comparison. It has a width of 2.10m.
Places to visit inside Ranthambore fort
The fort’s walls and gates are huge. Battis Khambhat Chhatri, Hammir Badi Kachahari, Hammir Palace, Chhoti Kachahari, and other constructions can be found inside the fort. Navlakha Pol, Hathi Pol, Ganesh Pol, Andheri Pol, Delhi Gate, Satpol, and Suraj Pol are the fort’s seven gates.
- Inside the Fort, there are temples.
- In the 12th century, Siddhasenasuri, who lived in the Ranthambore Fort, classified this location as one of the sacred Jaina tirthas.
- The Ganesh Temple, located near the Ranthambore Fort’s main entry gate, is a Hindu pilgrimage that attracts a large number of worshippers every year on Ganesh Chaturthi.
Best time to visit
Between the months of October and February, before the desert heat sets in, is the best time to visit the Ranthambore fort.
Entry fees
The best method to choose a tour is to look at the tour packages offered by the National Park, which are based on the schedule and number of days you want to visit.
Tips to visit Ranthambore fort
- Avoid going towards the Fort’s eastern section, as a variety of wild creatures have been spotted there on numerous occasions.
- In Rajasthan, especially during the heat, it is important to wear sunscreen.
- Please avoid using any type of substance because the consequences for drug-related offenses are exceedingly harsh.
- To avoid being duped by scam guys posing as tour guides near the Ranthambore Fort and other public places, only exchange your money at approved outlets.
To reach Ranthambore fort
- By air: The closest airport is in Jaipur, around 150 kilometres from the Fort.
- By rail: There are numerous trains that run frequently to Jaipur from the county’s major cities.
- By road: You can easily locate cabs, buses, and auto-rickshaws to the Ranthambore Fort once you arrive in Jaipur City.
Image Source: Google