The next place that I visited was Amber fort, the fort lies the famous Jai Mandir or the Jai Temple with its world renowned Sheesh Mahal, a hall full of Mirrors. Located 9 Kms north west of Jaipur, the Amber Fort was once the Capital of the Minas.

Ranvir, my guide, told me about the Amber Fort was constructed in 1592 by Raja Man Singh. It is one of the finest examples of Rajput architecture. Nestled high on a barren ridge, it commands extensive views over a deep narrow valley and the wider plains beyond. The building was finally completed in the early 18th century when the threat of Mughal domination was receding.

"Wow, this is beautiful!" I exclaimed, when I saw the walls and the ceiling of the Mahal covered with a beautiful array of mirrors. Somehow, I loved the architecture, of the building. The front courtyard of the complex, is adorned with the magnificent, pillared hall of the Diwan - i - Am, and the two - tiered painted gateway Ganesh Pol.

The palace of mirrors, Sheesh Mahal, is of special interest. It has walls inlaid with exquisite mirrors. The Jas Mandir, perched on the upper floor, is a superb amalgam of Mughal and Rajput style of architecture, as is evident from the exquisitely carved Jali screens, and fine mirror and stucco work.