Forts & Palaces — Set 13
Rajasthan GK · किले और महल · Questions 121–130 of 160
Gagron Fort is unique among Rajasthan's hill forts because it is:
Correct Answer: B. Surrounded by water on three sides making it a jal durg (water fort)
Gagron Fort is a rare jal durg (water fort) situated at the confluence of the Ahu and Kalisindh rivers in Jhalawar district, making it surrounded by water on three sides with a moat on the fourth. It is one of the six Hill Forts of Rajasthan inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by the Khichi Chauhan dynasty, it witnessed several sieges and two incidents of Johar (self-immolation by women).
The wall of Kumbhalgarh Fort is called the Great Wall of India. What is its approximate length?
Correct Answer: C. 36 km
The boundary wall of Kumbhalgarh Fort extends approximately 36 kilometres, earning it the title of the Great Wall of India and making it the second longest continuous wall in the world after the Great Wall of China. The wall is so wide that eight horses could reportedly ride abreast on it. Built by Rana Kumbha in the 15th century, the fort also served as the birthplace of Maharana Pratap.
Junagarh Fort in Bikaner is notable because it:
Correct Answer: B. Was never conquered throughout its history
Junagarh Fort in Bikaner holds the distinction of never having been conquered by any enemy throughout its history, making it unique among Rajasthan's forts. Built on flat ground by Raja Rai Singh between 1589 and 1594 AD, it was a general in Emperor Akbar's army. The fort houses remarkable palaces and temples, each built in different architectural styles by successive Bikaner rulers.
Lohagarh Fort in Bharatpur is famous because:
Correct Answer: B. It successfully repulsed multiple British attacks making it truly impregnable
Lohagarh Fort (Iron Fort) in Bharatpur earned its name by successfully repulsing multiple British attacks in the early 19th century despite being built on flat ground. It was built by Maharaja Suraj Mal of the Jat kingdom of Bharatpur in the 18th century. The fort's earthen walls and deep moat absorbed cannon fire effectively, making British conventional siege tactics ineffective against it.
Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur was built between 1929-1943 for which primary purpose?
Correct Answer: B. To provide employment to famine-affected workers
Umaid Bhawan Palace was built primarily to provide employment to thousands of workers suffering from a severe drought and famine in the Jodhpur region during 1929-1943. Maharaja Umaid Singh initiated the construction as a relief work project. The palace took 15 years to complete and is one of the world's largest private residences, built from golden-yellow Chittar sandstone.
The Samode Palace near Jaipur is especially known for its:
Correct Answer: B. Sheesh Mahal (Hall of Mirrors) with intricate mirror and fresco work
Samode Palace, located about 42 km from Jaipur, is especially celebrated for its stunning Sheesh Mahal (Hall of Mirrors) adorned with intricate mirror work, gold leaf, and elaborate fresco paintings. The palace was built by the Samode royal family about 400 years ago and is an excellent example of Rajput-Mughal architectural fusion. It is now a heritage hotel and a popular Bollywood film shooting location.
The Mandawa Fort and havelis in Shekhawati are famous for:
Correct Answer: B. Elaborate painted murals on their outer and inner walls
Mandawa Fort and the surrounding havelis (mansions) in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan are famous for their elaborate painted murals depicting mythology, history, and daily life scenes on both outer and inner walls. Built between the 18th and 20th centuries by wealthy Marwari merchant families, Shekhawati is called an open-air art gallery. The frescoes uniquely blend traditional Rajasthani art with modern European influences.
Which six Rajasthani forts were inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2013 under the name Hill Forts of Rajasthan?
Correct Answer: B. Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh, Ranthambore, Amber, Jaisalmer, Gagron
Six forts of Rajasthan were inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2013: Chittorgarh Fort, Kumbhalgarh Fort, Ranthambore Fort, Amber Fort, Jaisalmer Fort, and Gagron Fort. Together they are known as the Hill Forts of Rajasthan. These forts represent the military, political, and cultural power of the Rajput kingdoms over several centuries.
The Hawa Mahal in Jaipur has 953 small windows (jharokhas). What was the purpose of these windows?
Correct Answer: B. To allow royal ladies to observe street events without being seen by outsiders
The 953 intricately latticed jharokhas (small windows) of Hawa Mahal were designed to allow royal ladies to observe street processions and daily life without being seen from outside, maintaining the custom of purdah. The windows also create a natural cooling effect by channeling breezes through the palace. Built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, it is one of the most iconic monuments of Jaipur.
City Palace in Udaipur is built on the banks of which lake?
Correct Answer: C. Lake Pichola
The City Palace of Udaipur is built on the eastern banks of Lake Pichola and is the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Construction was started by Maharana Udai Singh II in 1559 and was extended by successive Mewar rulers over 400 years. The palace complex includes multiple palaces, courtyards, museums, and the famous Lake Palace (Jag Niwas) visible in the middle of the lake.