The Amber Fort elephant ride offers a unique experience in Rajasthan’s famous Amber Fort, located near Jaipur. This ride allows visitors to explore the majestic fort while enjoying traditional elephant transport, a practice dating back centuries. The Amber Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its architectural splendour and historical significance. Visitors can ride up the hill to the fort’s entrance, soaking in the historical atmosphere. It’s one of the top attractions for anyone visiting Rajasthan and offers a glimpse into the region’s royal past.
Location Of The Amber Fort Elephant Ride
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The Amber Fort elephant ride begins at the base of the historic Amber Fort, located about 11 km from Jaipur city. Visitors can enjoy a traditional ride on these majestic animals as they ascend the cobbled path leading to the fort’s entrance. The ride provides an immersive experience, allowing tourists to take in the architectural marvels of the fort from a unique perspective. The path is surrounded by historic walls and gates, setting the stage for an engaging journey into Rajasthan’s royal past.
How To Reach Amber Fort
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Reaching Amber Fort is convenient, with multiple transportation options available from nearby cities.
By Bus:
Regular buses from Jaipur to Amber Fort make it easy for travellers to access the Amber Fort elephant ride. Jaipur’s bus system is efficient, and buses to Amber leave every 30 minutes. The trip takes around 30 minutes, and the bus fare is affordable at ₹20 or $0.25. Once at the base of the fort, visitors can either walk or take an elephant ride up to the fort’s entrance.
By Rail:
Jaipur Railway Station, located about 11 kilometres from Amber Fort, is the nearest rail link. From the station, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the Amber Fort elephant ride starting point. Trains from major cities like Delhi and Mumbai frequently arrive at Jaipur, making it a convenient option for those travelling by rail. The cost of a taxi from the station to Amber Fort is approximately ₹200, or $2.50.
By Taxi:
Taxis offer the most convenient and flexible way to reach the Amber Fort. Taxis are available across Jaipur, and most hotels offer taxi services directly to the fort. The ride from the city centre takes around 20 minutes. The fare for a taxi ride to this fort typically ranges between ₹300-₹400 or $4-$5.
Places To Visit After The Amber Fort Elephant Ride
After enjoying the Amber Fort elephant ride, consider visiting these nearby attractions:
1. Jaigarh Fort
Photo: Jakub Hałun / Wikimedia Commons
Jaigarh Fort, famed for the world’s largest cannon on wheels, offers a historical glimpse into the region’s military prowess. Built for defence, the fort’s design reflects the strategic importance it held. The underground water channels and museum within the fort reveal fascinating details of ancient engineering and weaponry. Visitors can explore the fort’s watchtowers and bastions, soaking in the rich heritage it represents. Its proximity to Amber Fort makes it a convenient addition to a day of sightseeing in Jaipur.
Distance From Amber Fort: 3 kms
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
2. Nahargarh Fort
Photo: Manishgarg57 / Wikimedia Commons
Nahargarh Fort sits atop the Aravalli Hills and was initially a retreat for Jaipur’s royalty. With its expansive walls, the fort provided refuge and defence while offering a secluded getaway for the Maharajas. Today, it draws visitors for its stunning views of Jaipur city, particularly at sunset. The fort also houses Madhavendra Bhawan, a palace designed for the queens. Nahargarh provides a different architectural experience compared to Amber Fort, making it a captivating stop for history enthusiasts.
Distance From Amber Fort: 7 kms
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
3. Jal Mahal
Photo: Firoze Edassery / Wikimedia Commons
Jal Mahal stands majestically in the middle of Man Sagar Lake, captivating onlookers with its reflection on the water. Although entry into the palace is restricted, the palace’s unique architecture, a blend of Mughal and Rajput styles, remains a focal point of interest. The surrounding lake has become a gathering spot for birdwatchers and photographers. Visitors enjoy the beautiful view and the peaceful environment around the palace, making it a perfect short stop during a day of touring Jaipur.
Distance From Amber Fort: 5 kms
Timings: 24 hours (exterior viewing)
4. Hawa Mahal
Photo: Karppanta / Wikimedia Commons
Hawa Mahal, with its intricately carved windows, was built for the royal women to observe daily life without being seen. The latticework allows a cool breeze to flow through, even in the heat, making it a true architectural marvel. Visitors can climb to the upper floors and enjoy a view of the bustling streets below. Its cultural and historical significance make it a must-visit for anyone intrigued by Jaipur’s rich past, offering insight into the lifestyle of the royal family.
Distance From Amber Fort: 9 kms
Timings: 9 AM- 4:30 PM
5. City Palace
Photo: Yashaswi Garg / Wikimedia Commons
City Palace demonstrates Jaipur’s royal heritage, offering visitors a chance to witness its grandeur up close. The palace complex includes courtyards, gardens, and museums that house royal artefacts such as textiles, weapons, and paintings. The Mubarak Mahal and Chandra Mahal showcase stunning architecture and provide insights into the Maharajas’ lifestyle. After exploring Amber Fort, the City Palace serves as a cultural highlight, offering a deeper understanding of the city’s rich history and regal traditions.
Distance From Amber Fort: 10 kms
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5 PM
Where To Stay
Photo: Christopher Michel / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Jaipur offers diverse accommodation options for travellers, ensuring a comfortable stay for all budgets. Heritage hotels like Samode Haveli and Oberoi Rajvilas immerse guests in the city’s royal charm, complete with traditional decor and hospitality. Budget travellers can find affordable hotels near Amber Fort, ideal for exploring the city’s attractions. Many mid-range options also provide comfortable lodging with modern amenities, ensuring a pleasant stay.
Where To Eat
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When in Jaipur, sampling traditional Rajasthani cuisine is a must. Restaurants near Amber Fort serve dishes like Dal Baati Churma and Laal Maas, providing an authentic local experience. 1135 AD, located within Amber Fort, offers royal dining amidst stunning interiors, while Surabhi Restaurant and Pink Pearl are nearby choices known for their diverse menus. The cost of meals varies by venue, typically ranging between ₹500 and ₹2000 or $6-$24, allowing visitors to enjoy both fine dining and casual meals during their stay.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Amber Fort is between October and March, when Jaipur’s weather is more comfortable for outdoor exploration. During these months, the temperatures remain moderate, making activities like the Amber Fort elephant ride enjoyable. Visitors can also explore the fort’s surroundings without being affected by the extreme heat of the summer. This season is ideal for taking in the fort’s rich history and architecture, as well as visiting other nearby attractions in Jaipur.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of The Ride:
The Amber Fort elephant ride costs ₹1200, or $15 per person, with cash payments accepted in Indian rupees only. This one-way ride offers visitors a traditional way of ascending to the fort’s entrance, recreating the experience of the royals who once visited the fort. The cost includes a guided ride up the hill, allowing visitors to enjoy the journey concurrently. Since the rides operate in limited slots, it’s recommended to arrive early to ensure availability.
Tips For Travellers:
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for a short ride.
- Hold on to the railing tightly during the ascent to ensure stability.
- Avoid sudden movements while on the elephant, as this could cause imbalance.
- Follow the instructions of the mahout (elephant rider) to ensure a safe experience.
- Keep your valuables securely stowed, as the ride can be bumpy.
The Amber Fort elephant ride gives visitors a memorable way to experience one of Rajasthan’s iconic structures. As you ascend to the fort’s entrance, the journey transports you back to an era where royalty once travelled in a similar fashion. The slow, steady pace of the elephants allows for an immersive experience, connecting visitors to the cultural heritage of the region. Plan your trip to Rajasthan with TripXL and enjoy a smooth and well-organised visit to this historic gem.
Cover Photo: Vssun / Wikimedia Commons