December 2019
We were on the famous Golden Triangle, a popular tourist route that connects New Delhi, Agra and Jaipur.
Greatly influenced by Mughal architecture, Amer Fort or Amber Fort is located on the banks of Maota Lake in the town of Amer. We decided to walk up to the Fort instead of taking an elephant ride, a personal choice from past experience witnessing how elephants are treated in similar situations.
First courtyard with stairs going up to Sila Devi Temple. Next to it is Ganesh Pol Entrance, named after the Hindu God Ganesh. You go through this entrance and end up at the private quarters of the Maharaja and his family.
The courtyard has two buildings, one opposite to the other, separated by a garden laid in the fashion of the Mughal Gardens. Jai Mandir, also known as Sheesh Mahal, mirror palace, the mirror mosaics and colored glasses were like a "glittering jewel box in flickering candlelight". The other building seen in the courtyard is opposite to the Jai Mandir and is known as the Sukh Niwas or Sukh Mahal (Hall of Pleasure).
"The Palace of Winds" or "The Palace of Breeze"
Private rooms at Chandra Mahal in Jaipur’s City Palace. The stunning Chhavi Nivas with beautiful bright blue with white detailing. This room was used to enjoy the monsoon rains. Rang Mandir has amazing mirror work. The Shobha Nivas is richly decorated with gold and glass work. This room was originally used for religious purposes, to pray during Hindu festivals such as Diwali and Holi.
Richly decorated gates in the Pritam Chowk. This most popular one being the one with peacock detailing.
"Water Palace" in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake.
© 2026 Altaaf Khan