Introduction
The country of India is one of the oldest civilizations and the seventh-largest country in the world, comprising 28 states, which equally represent the glorious history and culture of India. Also, each of them is known for some specific things that you can find, feel, and see being there only. The state of Rajasthan is one of them, which is known for its uniqueness. So, what set Rajasthan aside from other Indian states apart from its Gastronomic Delightful food, various colorful cities, diversities in wildlife and culture, serene lakes, and thrilling festivals? Awe-inspiring Forts, and Museum, that are built by many rulers in different architectural styles. The Akbar fort museum is one of them, which was built by one of the greatest Mughal kings: Akbar, in the city of Ajmer. So, let us explore a beautiful part of History.
About Akbar Fort & Museum, Ajmer
Though, as an ancient city, Ajmer is blessed with some best eclectic and historical places, which not only gives a glimpse of the past but also facilitates understanding the glorious culture. Dargah Sharif and Taragarh Fort are two of them. However, it’s hardly an exaggeration to say that Akbar fort and the museum is a must-visit place in Ajmer. The great structure of this fort has been glorifying the city and city dwellers for many years, which is so splendid. It would not be wrong to define it as a pride of the city.
This huge marvelous architecture will definitely give you a different feeling, which you cannot even imagine getting from any modern places. It will surely bring an exceptional experience of understanding and learning new things. And learning something new is always enjoyable. It is a never disappointing place. You can enjoy it more if you are a fan of History. While there, you can literally feel the power and status of this place and the Mughal empire by knowing the fact that, standing on the top of it, emperor Jahangir read out the Farman to permit the Britishers for doing business in India, which was proved to be a milestone for the establishment of British rule in India, which become the biggest reason behind the decline of the Mughal rule.
The Britishers also used it as a tehsil (city) office. Later, the independent Indian Authorities turned into a magnificent museum, which is currently known by multiple names such as Akbar Fort and Museum, Akbari Fort and Museum, and Akbar Palace and Museum.
This marvelous place has everything, which can satisfy every traveler and make their trip and time worthwhile, especially if you are the one who has a great interest in History, who loves to travel historical places. And if you are willing to understand and have a glimpse of the inspiring and courageous life of not only Mughal, but also other Rajput Kings, who are known for their bravery, then this place is for you.
The only factor that used to hold people back from visiting this place, it was its deteriorated condition. The fort has not gone through any renovation and maintenance for many years. Though its pillars and walls were well built and strong enough, it lost its charm due to less makeover. But Recently, the government paid heed to it and rejuvenated it completely, which again gave it its glorious past. Now it turned into a must-visit place in Ajmer after the complete transformation.
So, what you will be witnessing once you enter the courtyard. Let us have a short insight into it.
Once you actually reach this amazing destination, you will witness a beautiful market and a big road in front of it. You can imagine the entry scene of kings. It gives goosebumps to visualize how the greatest king Akbar and his convoy used to enter the fort under the high voltage of security through a gigantic door, which was and is the only way to enter. Otherwise, big walls from all four sides cover the fort, which means these superlative walls are loudly saying that, hey traveler! You have to get an entry only through this gate to admire the beauty of fort-cum-museum. I will never allow to have even a glimpse of it from outside.
By appreciating the beautiful carving on the gate, when you enter the courtyard, you will see there are multiple halls. Each one of them is dedicated to certain types of exhibits based on the subject.
You can read about the Akbar fort written on the wall of the first hall. The same hall shows some pictures of eminent personalities and tells about some events related to the fort-cum-museum OR the Akbar fort. When you go-ahead for the next hall, some exquisite Pots, pottery, and Ornaments will appear. It is so wondering that these are about five thousand years old. You can also find some objects that were discovered at the Harappan sites, which is one of the oldest civilizations in the world.
One of the halls is filled with multiple idols that are outstanding. This hall is known as Shilaalekh Deergha means an inscription gallery. You can find some statues of various Hindu gods and others. A statue of Lord Krishna with Goddess Lakshmi will definitely draw your attention towards the same. You will be astonished and fall in love with the amazing artwork done by early people as soon as you see these idols. The conversation between Thomas Roe, the ambassador of the East India Company, and the emperor Jahangir is also represented through beautiful statues.
Swords and spears are also exhibited over there, which were the main weapons in the history. These (mostly swords) are used to show the identity of the Kings and Warriors. You can imagine the artisans' condition who might have been forced to burn the midnight oil to complete their task of making swords on time, with less technology. Later, these traditional weapons were replaced with guns and tanks after the modernization of arms. You can find some of the arms used by various warriors in the battles, which are exhibited in one of the halls of this fort. The tank is one of the most important weapons firstly used by Mughal in India.
The royal dresses of kings and queens are some of the most amazing objects exhibited in the museum. These traditional dresses will definitely mesmerize you, especially the dress of Muslim princesses and Hindu queens, which also shows the early Indian culture and the traditional lifestyle of the royal family. While there, You can also have a glimpse of the amazing life of two great warriors of India: the Prithvi Raj Chauhan and Maharana Pratap, by beautiful paintings.
Though, you can find multiple historical objects once you actually visit there, one thing that is common in the entire museum is Ancient Art, which is clearly visible in the form of Pottery, Pots, statues, and others.
History
Since it is a historical place, it holds a rich historical past. It was built in 1570 AD as a fort later, converted into a museum. The purpose of its building is to provide accommodation to the Mughal during their visit to the city, especially the Dargah Sharif. Another reason for its building is military advancement and planning for forthcoming battles. Even the Haldighati battle in 1576 was planned from here only, in which the Mughal emerged as victorious.
The walls of Akbar's fort and Museum also saw the birth of two Mughal princes: Shah Suja and Dara Shikoh, who is described as a liberal thinker. After the decline of the Mughal, this fort was used as a Tehsil Office by Britishers. After independence, it was turned into a Museum, which is now known as Government Museum OR Akbar Fort and Museum. This fort is more than a residential building and less than a military fort.
Other Places to visit near the Akbar Fort and Museum
You can find most of the must-visit places close to each. That is the best thing about the city of Ajmer. These are some places, which you should visit after visiting the Akbar Fort and Museum is-
Dargah Sharif - It is the most amazing place to visit in Ajmer. The greatness of Khwaja Moinuddin Chisty makes it a divine destination for millions.
Adhai Din Ka Jhopda - it is a superlative historical structure near the Dargah. Surprisingly, built within two-and-a-half days only. It is a structure of multiple pillars.
Daulat Bagh and Ana Sagar Lake - probably it is one of the most visible tourist attractions of the city. You can admire the Natural Beauty of the city of Ajmer.
Soni Ji ki Nasiyan - Also known as Nasiyan Temple. A splendid temple of Digambar sect of Jainism. You can have a peaceful and soulful trip of the same.
Architecture
This magnificent structure is one of the great architectural masterpieces. Its architectural style is influenced by Islamic and Rajasthani style. There are multiple halls, which are now filled with some historical objects. Large windows for pure air and big walls for protection from external threats are marvelous.
How to reach
By Air - The Kishangarh Airport is the closest airport, So, hire a taxi from there directly to the Fort.
By Bus - People reach the bus stand from anywhere to visit Akbar Place and hire a taxi for the same. You can reach there within a few minutes.
By Train - It would be the best option to hire a taxi from Ajmer Railway Station. Either you can visit with a personal vehicle.
