Amber, was the capital of the Kacchhawaha's for over six centuries before the birth of Jaipur.
Some trace the origin of the name to "Amba Mata", the goddess of Earth and fertility, whose temple is located in the fort.
The mighty for stands atop a range of craggy hills about 11 kms from Jaipur City on the Jaipu-Delhi Highway. The serene Maota lake at the base of the hill adds to the beauty of the fort. Amidst teh lake is Mohan Bari(Saffron Bed).
Another garden around the lake is Dala Ram ka Bagh, which was built by Mirza Raja Jai Singh. The garden also has a musuem, which exhibits cultural objects.
As one enters the palace area, Diwan-i-aam, a forty pillared beautiful pavillion made of marble and red sandstone can be seen. Further there is Ganesh pole, which has a great carved statue of Lord Ganesha.
Diwan-i-khaas (Hall of private audience) is decorated with beautiful mirror work and has intricate carvings on the wall and ceilings.
Opposite to Diwan-i-khaas is located Sukh Niwas (Hall of Pleasure). The natural air conditioning effect created by the cool breeze is its special feature.
Adjacent to Sukh Niwas is Jai Mandir (Hall of Victory). Its famous house, Sheesh Mahal (Hall of mirrors) is encrusted with several small plane mirrors. When a candle is lit here in dark, it gives a beautiful depiction as if stars are twinkling in the sky.
The archeological museum and private halls of queens are also located nearby.
