Last month, six of Rajasthan’s hill forts were recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, putting them up there with other World Heritage Sites in India such as the Taj Mahal. This is hardly a surprise; perhaps the only surprise is that it took so long for them to achieve this recognition. These six hill forts – Amber, Chittorgarh, Gagron, Jaisalmer, Kumbalgarh and Ranthambore – are some of the biggest and most impressive fortifications in the world.

Jaislmer Fort

Most of the hill forts date from the 12^th to 15^th century, and they dwarf the castles of Europe that were built at a similar time. The largest of the forts, Kumbalgarh, is enclosed by more than 20 miles of wall, said to be second only to the Great Wall of China. Many of the forts were built more like walled cities, enclosing palaces, temples and reservoirs. The fort of Chittorgarh still contains dozens of temples within its walls which remain very active, drawing pilgrims from across Rajasthan. Some of the most beautiful architecture in Rajasthan is contained within the walls of these forts. Amber Palace, built inside Amber Fort just outside Jaipur is famous for its intricate decorations with fine marble carvings, frescos and coloured tiles.

Kumbalgarh Fort wall

Each of the hill forts is different, and each has its own charms, but my personal favourite has to be Jaisalmer Fort. Built on a hill that towers over the city of Jaisalmer, the walls of the fort are constructed from honey-coloured sandstone. When it glows in the sunset, you can see why it is called the “Golden Fort”.  The main entrance passes through several impressive gates as it winds up to the Raj Mahal, the royal palace which offers unforgettable views of the city and surrounding desert from its terraces.

Inside Jaislmer Fort

What makes Jaisalmer Fort so unique in that it is still occupied. About 4,000 people live in the maze of streets enclosed by the walls, giving it a vibrant atmosphere full of life and colour. Havelis, town houses built by rich merchants, line the narrow alleys and feature beautiful carving and woodwork. Most of the havelis are still occupied by the families that built them, but some have been converted into museums and are open to the public. There are of course many temples within the fort and the Jain temples here feature some of the most beautiful carvings I have seen in India. There is even a heritage hotel, Garh Jaisal, built directly into the battlements – the rooms are small, but the view is unbeatable.

Chittorgarh: www.tribes.co.uk/India/Rajasthan-and-the-North/chittorgarh

Kumbalgarh: www.tribes.co.uk/India/Rajasthan-and-the-North/kumbalgarh-and-ranakpur

Jaisalmer: www.tribes.co.uk/India/Rajasthan-and-the-North/jaisalmer

Garh Jaisal: www.tribes.co.uk/India/garh-jaisal