Vance, his Indian-origin wife Usha Chilukuri and their three children -- Ewan, Vivek, Mirabel -- departed the luxurious Rambagh Palace Hotel and reached the UNESCO World Heritage site at around 9.30 am. They received a red carpet welcome
Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari welcomed them at the fort
As they entered the main courtyard -- Jaleb Chowk -- two decorated female elephants named Chanda and Mala greeted them by raising their trunks, an official said
The Vances witnessed a cultural performance featuring folk dances, including Kacchi Ghodi, Ghoomar and Kalbeliya, offering a glimpse into the vibrant culture of Rajasthan, he said
While Vice President Vance walked the red carpet holding his sons, Ewan and Vivek, by the hand, his wife carried their daughter Mirabel. The family appeared captivated by the impressive courtyard and architecture, officials said
The Amber Fort Palace was closed to the public from 12 pm on Monday to make preparations for the Vance family's visit. Traffic was rerouted to ensure that the stretch of road from Rambagh Palace Hotel to the fort remained clear for the VIP movement
The Amber Fort is situated in the Aravalli mountain range, nearly 11 km from the centre of Jaipur. It is an extensive palace complex built with pale yellow, pink sandstone and white marble. The fort is divided into four main sections, each with its own courtyards
Amber was the capital of the Kachhwaha Rajputs before they shifted their capital to Jaipur. Man Singh I started the construction of the new palace complex at the end of the 16th century
After Raja Man Singh I, Mirza Raja Jai Singh I and Sawai Jai Singh II made some modifications, including to the interiors of the fort
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