Forts & Palaces — Set 1

Correct Answer: B. Jaisalmer Fort

Jaisalmer Fort is called 'Sonar Quila' or Golden Fort because it is built from yellow sandstone that glows golden in sunlight. It is one of the few living forts in the world, as a quarter of the old city's population still resides within its walls. It was built in 1156 AD by Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Correct Answer: C. Jodhpur

Mehrangarh Fort is situated in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, and is one of the largest forts in India. It was built by Rao Jodha in 1459 AD and stands on a rocky hill 125 metres above the city. The fort houses several palaces known for their intricate carvings and wide courtyards. It is a major tourist attraction and a symbol of the city of Jodhpur.

Correct Answer: A. Man Singh I

Amber Fort was built by Raja Man Singh I, the Kachwaha Rajput king, in 1592 AD. It is located on a hill overlooking Maota Lake near Jaipur. The fort is known for its blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. It was later extended by Mirza Raja Jai Singh and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Correct Answer: B. Rani Padmini

Rani Padmini (also called Padmavati) is associated with Chittorgarh Fort. According to legend, when Alauddin Khilji attacked Chittor to capture her, she led the women of the fort in Jauhar (self-immolation) to protect their honor. Chittorgarh Fort is the largest fort in India by area. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Correct Answer: C. 36 km

The wall of Kumbhalgarh Fort extends approximately 36 kilometres, making it the second longest continuous wall in the world after the Great Wall of China. The fort was built by Rana Kumbha of the Mewar dynasty in the 15th century. It is located in the Rajsamand district of Rajasthan. The fort is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Correct Answer: B. Sawai Pratap Singh

Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) was built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799 AD. It was designed by architect Lal Chand Ustad in the form of the crown of Lord Krishna. The five-story structure has 953 small windows called 'jharokhas' decorated with intricate latticework. It allowed royal ladies to observe street festivities while remaining unseen.

Correct Answer: C. 953

Hawa Mahal has 953 small windows called 'jharokhas' that are intricately decorated with latticework. These windows allow cool breezes to flow through the palace, hence the name 'Palace of Winds'. The palace is five stories tall and is made of red and pink sandstone. It is one of the most iconic landmarks of Jaipur.

Correct Answer: B. Sawai Jai Singh II

City Palace in Jaipur was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in the early 18th century, when he moved his capital from Amber to Jaipur in 1727. The palace complex includes several palaces, courtyards, and gardens built in Rajput and Mughal styles. It still serves as the residence of the royal family of Jaipur. The Mubarak Mahal and Chandra Mahal are notable structures within the complex.

Correct Answer: C. 1929–1943

Umaid Bhawan Palace was built between 1929 and 1943 during the reign of Maharaja Umaid Singh. It was constructed to provide employment to thousands of workers during a severe famine. The palace is built of Chittar sandstone (buff sandstone) and is one of the world's largest private residences. Today it serves as a royal residence, heritage hotel, and museum.

Correct Answer: B. Bikaner

Junagarh Fort is located in Bikaner, Rajasthan. It was built by Raja Rai Singh, a general in Akbar's army, between 1589 and 1594 AD. Unlike most Rajput forts, it is not built on a hilltop but on flat ground. The fort was never conquered by any enemy during its long history, making it unique among Rajasthan's forts.