Cheela Ka Teela: A Fortress in the Aravalli Embrace
In the heart of the Aravalli hills, where the winds echo with tales of valor, stands Jaigarh Fort—often referred to as “Cheela Ka Teela,” translating to the Hill of Eagles. Crafted by the visionary Jai Singh II in the 17th century, this fortress perches proudly, overseeing the splendor of Amer Fort and the serene Maota Lake.
Rugged Grandeur: The Victory Fort Unveiled
As I ascended towards the fort, its rugged grandeur unfolded against the backdrop of the Aravalli expanse. Known as the Victory Fort, Jaigarh Fort boasts a structural design that is both awe-inspiring and formidable, echoing the valor of the Rajput rulers.
Jaivana: The Roar of Unmatched Might
A crowning jewel of Jaigarh Fort is the world’s largest cannon on wheels—Jaivana. Standing as a silent sentinel, this colossal artillery piece never tasted battle, a testament to the amicable relations between the Rajputs of Amer and the Mughals. Once, and only once, did Jaivana roar to life, propelled by 100kgms of gunpowder, its mighty reach spanning an astounding 35 kilometers.
Armored Legacy: A Gallery of War-Torn Relics
Within the fortress walls lies an armor gallery, where the legacy of war manifests in a stunning array of swords, shields, guns, muskets, and a 50kgms cannonball. Each artifact tells a story of battles unfought, a silent tribute to an era of martial prowess and strategic foresight.
Wild Encounters: Nature's Harmony Beyond the Walls
As I retraced my steps, a remarkable encounter awaited—a majestic Sambar deer, gracefully approaching the fortress, seemingly in search of tales whispered by the ancient stones. The fort, embraced by the Nahargarh sanctuary’s deciduous splendor, stands as a testament to the harmony between history and nature, where monkeys frolic amidst the echoes of a bygone era.
Admission to Power: A Ticket to Heritage
The fort’s gates, adorned with tales etched in stone, beckon visitors with an invitation to traverse time. For those who wish to unlock the secrets within, the cost of admission stands at Rs.100 for Indians and Rs.500 for foreign guests—a small investment for a grand journey through history.
As the sun sets over the Aravalli, Jaigarh Fort remains perched—unchanged, timeless, and resonating with the silent echoes of eagles soaring high in the Rajasthani sky.
Adventure Continues : Nahargarh Fort: Where Legends Echo and Tigers Roam