History of Ranthambore Fort
The exact period the fort was constructed is unknown; however, archaeologists suggest that the construction may have begun during the reign of the Sapaldaksha in the 10th Century. The Chauhan Royal Family of Rajasthan may have completed the remaining construction in the 12th Century. When the Chauhans managed the fort, it was known as Ranastambha. During the reign of Prithviraj Chauhan I, it was majorly associated with Jainism. In 1192 CE, Muhammad of Ghor, a Muslim ruler, captured the fort and defeated Prithviraj Chauhan III.
In 1226 CE, the fort was captured by Iltutmish, a Delhi Ruler; however, the Chauhans captured the fort again in 1236. In 1259, Sultan Balban captured the fort from Jaitrasingh Chauhan after repeated unsuccessful attempts over the years. Shakti Dev, the successor of Jaitrasingh Chauhan, won the fort in 1283. The kingdom was also enlarged after this win. In 1301, the fort was captured by Ala Uddin Khilji.
Architecture of Ranthambore Fort
The Ranthambhore Fort is situated atop a large rocky outcrop amidst the Ranthambhore National Park. The fort has as a massive protective wall and seven gates namely the Navlakha Pol, Hathi Pol, Ganesh Pol, Andheri Pol, Delhi Pol, Satpol and Suraj Pol. The fort has a Kachaheri called the Hammir Kachaheri which has 3 chambers, with the central chamber being the biggest. The structure has pillars lined to support the ceiling of the verandah.
A palace constructed during the reign of Hammir Singh also lied inside the fort premises. It is called the Hammir Palace. The palace has chambers and balconies that are connected by small traditional doors and stairways. An important and beautiful structure inside the fort is the Battis Khamba Chhatri. It is a three storey building with 32 pillars that support chhatris or domes. This structure has a verandah that leads to each level of the building.
There is also a big hall with about 84 columns, with a height of 61 metre height. This hall is called Badal Mahal and was used to hold conferences and meetings. The Ganesh temple inside the fort premises is quite well known amongst devotees. According to a belief, if you write letters to Lord Ganesha and send them here, your wishes will come true.
Best time to visit Ranthambhore Fort
The best months to visit the Ranthambhore Fort are between November and February as it is winter time in Rajasthan. The best time to explore the fort would be in the mornings and the evenings as the temperature stays pleasant.
How to Reach Ranthambhore Fort
Ranthambhore Fort is located at a distance of 17 kilometres from the town of Sawai Madhopur. Tourists can hail public transport to reach the fort. Buses and auto-rickshaws are the best modes of transport here, however, one may choose to book cabs for a day trip. From Sawai Madhopur, tourists can reach the fort via Ranthambhore road.
Top Tourist Places in Ranthambore
Kacheeda Valley
Ganesh Trinetra Temple
Surwal Lake
Padam Lake
Jogi Mahal
Raj Bagh Talao
All Tourist Places in Ranthambore
Tips
1. Carry enough water and keep yourself hydrated.2. Wear sun protection and clothes suitable to trek up the fort.3. Tourists who wish to explore the National Park may book Jungle Safari well in advance.
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