Evidence of Rajasthans rich history can be seen in the many historic structures around the state perhaps most notably in its many forts. While many travelers visit the Amber Fort in Jaipur on a tour of the Golden Trianglethere are several other impressive forts in the state for travelers who have more time.

Some of the best forts in Rajasthan include the Mehrangarg Fort in Jodhpur the Kumbhalgarh Fort near Udaipur the Jaisalmer Fort in Jaisalmer the Junagarh Fort in Bikaner and the Taragarh Fort in Bundi

Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur:-

The Mehrangarh Fort arguably the best in Rajasthan was founded in 1459. This impenetrable masterpiece sits high above the blue city of Jodhpur built on a steep cliff. The entrance fee of 300 Rs includes an audio guide tour which leads visitors through the various courtyards exhibition rooms and look-out points. The tour offers many excellent views of the old city walls the clock-tower and the picturesque Jaswant Thada.

After completing the tour of this well-preserved fort visitors are led through the museum shop and an outdoor craft area. Those who wish to explore further may walk along the outer wall passing many cannons on the way to the Chamunda Devi Temple.

Kumbhalgarh Fort Near Udaipur:-

Many people miss out on this impressive 15th century fort because of its location. Approximately 85km from Udaipur this massive fort sits majestically amidst the surrounding mountains. The fort walls over 20 miles long enclose a large area with hundreds of temples. It is possible for visitors to walk along a portion of the wall. Visitors who make the climb up to the palace may find its emptiness a bit disappointing but those who explore further discover stairways leading to fantastic roof-top look-out points.

The Kumbhalgarh entrance fee is 100Rs. It is possible to take a local bus from Udaipur. Many people hire a car from Udaipur for 1200Rs round-trip which includes a stop at the nearby Jain temples of Ranakpur.

Jaisalmer Fort in Jaisalmer:-

The Jaisalmer Fort often noted as resembling a giant sand-castle is the main attraction in incredibly popular desert city. This fort is unique as many citizens of Jaisalmer continue to live within its walls.

Because the fort contains homes restaurants hotels and shops there is no fee to enter. There are fees to enter particular sites within the walls such as the Jain temples and the palace. The palace entrance fee of 250 Rs includes an audio guide providing information and stories about the history of the fort.

While the design of the fort is quite lovely a closer look will reveal some of the negative implications of increased tourism. Trash can be found outside the fort walls as well as in the streets and waterways within the fort. Much worse the fort is crumbling. While some of the damage is due to earthquakes the primary problem is water. The fort is not properly equipped to deal with the shift to tap water for homes inside the fort a problem which is significantly increased by the many hotels and restaurants operating within the fort walls. Efforts are underway to restore and preserve the fort.

Junagarh Fort in Bikaner:-

The Junagarh Fort started in 1589 has been available to the public since 1963 when donated by Maharaja Dr. Karni Singhji. There is a lot to see at this interesting fort and it should be visited with a guide. Audio guides are available for those who prefer going at their own pace. The journey through the fort leads visitors through many interesting and decorative halls and rooms. There is much attention to detail seen in the painted walls and ceilings unique doors and carved screens. There are opportunities to climb to higher sections of the fort overlooking the gardens and the city beyond the fortress walls. The final part of the tour includes large displays of weaponry coaches and a restored plane from World War I.

Taragarh Fort in Bundi:-

Bundi’s Taragarh Fort is a great place for those with an affinity for exploration. With little to no signage at the top of the hill visitors can wander around as they please to discover each building wall and water tank as they go.

The fort [no entrance fee] is just a 20 minute walk uphill from the Chitrasala at Bundi Palace although the uneven and sometimes slippery path is better left to the sure-footed. Many visitors wisely carry a stick that doubles as a walking stick and monkey deterrent.