Hill forts to Photograph in Rajasthan

Hill forts to Photograph

In the state of Rajasthan there are six amazing Hill forts to photograph. These iconic site are in Chittorgarh, Jodhpur, Kumbhalgarh, Sawai Madhopur, Jhalawar, Jaipur, and Jaisalmer. The ecclectic architecture of the forts testimony to the power of the Rajput princely states that flourished in the region from the 8th to the 18th centuries. The forts use the natural defenses offered by the landscape: hills, deserts, rivers, and dense forests. Also, they feature extensive water harvesting structures, largely still in use today. They are really interesting architecture to capture and usually from their privilege position can you shooting amazing panoramic view. Recently, the hill forts are declare a Unesco World Heritage Centre.

Amber fort

The Amber Fort is just outside of Jaipur. It was founded by Maharaja Man Singh in 1592 AD, and later expanded by Maharaja Jai Singh I. Is a pleasure for anyone photograph is stunning architecture. The royalty and opulence of its past rulers is still evident within the walls of the fort, particularly in the third courtyard that houses the apartments of the Maharajas. The quarters here are beautifully decorated with frescoed arches, sandalwood doors and marble panels. The royal palace is a particular draw, constructed from yellow and pink sandstone and white marble with adjoining courtyards. From the palace you can admire splendid views of the country and Lake Maota below.

Jaisalmer fort

The main attraction in Jaisalmer is the Fort. Even the fort little town is in the far west of the region, is one the highlights of the Rajasthan. Without a doubt is better discover and start shooting at the sunrise. Indeed the fort is amazing but is full of shops and the streets are so small. So for has better frame and clean pictures i suggest to start early and avoid the tourist. The fort is built in 1156 AD by Rawal Jaisal and the name derives from two words – Jaisal and Meru. Jaisal came from the king himself and Meru is the name of an unassailable mythical mountain of the Gods in the Himalayas. For a panoramic shot is better go u on the hill outside at the sunset.

Chittorgah Fort

The largest fort in Rajasthan is in Chittorgah. It is on a hill 590.6 ft (180m) high and left side of the Berach River bank. The fort was built by the Mauryans in the 7th Century AD, and the name comes from the Mauryan leader Chitrangada Mori. Chittorgarh fort was the capital of Mewar for about 834 years starting from 734AD. The fort was attacked in 1303 and 1535 and was destroyed in 1568 and remained desolate until 1905 when it was refurbished.

Kumbhalgarh Fort

Kumbhalgarh Fort’s huge ramparts, curved bastions and giant watchtowers all tell romantic tales of the battles and Kings of the Rajput era. It was initially built in the 15th century by Rana Kumba, and despite many attempts to take it over Kumbhalagarh continued to prove virtually impregnable. Even today it is in excellent condition and is open for public exploration. The best time to capture a picture of Kumbhalgarh is at night, when the walls and ramparts are lit up to make the whole fort shine spectacularly bright against the night sky.

Mehranghar Fort

Imposing Mehrangarh Fort, which rises above the “Blue City”, is impressive well-preserved heritage structure. There’s so much more to shooting here. Start with the views and perspectives from outside until the impressive cityscape from the top of the wall . I suggest to walk from the old city, maybe at the sunrise to has a perfect light. Then when the sun it more hard you will enter in the Fort. Insight there are plenty of details and treasures. In fact, the fort has been privately restored and its museum has an outstanding display of royal memorabilia, including about 15,000 items from Maharaja Gaj Singh II’s personal collection. Another highlight is the cultural performances that happen daily at various places inside the fort, as part of the special focus on folk art and music. 

Ranthambore fort

Ranthambore Fort was built during the 10th century to protect the land and people of the Ranthambore kingdom. It was under constant threat of invasion due to the fact that it oversaw the trade routes between North and Central India. Over the centuries the fort has been occupied by many rulers, and for a time before 1947 the land surrounding the fort was used as a royal hunting ground. Much of the structure of the original fort is still intact today, including seven large gateways. If you are in Ranthambore for safari, then a visit to the fort is an excellent locations to photograph some amazing architecture.

Jhalaawar Fort

Located in the Jhalawar district of Rajasthan, this fort is surrounded by water from all sides.It is unique in its own way as it is the only fort which doesn’t have any foundation. Indeed was constructed by the Dod king Bijaldev in the 12^th century and the fort was ruled by the Khinchi kingdom for 300 years. Although the exact time of the construction is not known. Historians say that the fort was built from the seventh century to the fourteenth century. The fort has two main entrances. One gate leads towards the river and the other leads towards the hilly road.

Before Living

For you photographic trip in India is better to prepare well, the country is big and not easy to dealing with, especially if you are first timer. So find what you want really shooting at is fundamental.

Before living search for works made in the past by greater photographers. Indeed from them you will be learning a lot of things. You should look and study the works of artist like Raghu Rai . Take notes and made a checklist in this process can be great and i really recommend to do that. Finally, be sure you have the right traveling photography equipment.

Planning

Once I’ve found the potential locations, then i try to plan out when I want to shot each spot.  The most important thing in this regard is the direction of the light. So i look at sunset vs. sunrise, and try to make an educated guess on when it will photograph best.  Once I’ve done all that, I can create a bit of a shoot plan.

Before living be sure you have the right traveling photography equipment . In India can be difficult find a good photography shop, just in big city like Mumbai, New Delhi or Bangalore you will find professional equipment. Also the products are more expensive due a some government tax.

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Travel Insurance

Getting a really god insurance. Like any destination, traveling with proper travel insurance is a must. Take care of yourself in the India.

Healthy issues

Prophylaxis or vaccination for India is not mandatory. However, it is recommended to contact the external health of the autonomous community.

Documentation

You must apply for an Indian tourist visa embassy or consulate (contact us for more information and help) via online (Price approx. € 65). Passport with a minimum validity of six months and at least two blank pages.

Be responsible when you photograph Hill Forts

When you going in Hill forts to Photograph be responsible, ethical and respectful way. Before each trip everyone has to inform and take regarding the seriousness of the sanctions in India for drug use etc. Also you can read my article about responsible travel photography.