Q61. Identify the odd one out among the following historical structures, based on their categorization as astronomical observatories built by Sawai Jai Singh II.
Temples, Forts, Palaces and Monuments: RAS Prelims MCQs
106 RAS Prelims MCQs on temples, forts, palaces and monuments of Rajasthan test builders, features and locations. Temple styles, the UNESCO hill forts, Kumbhalgarh, Jaisalmer, Amber and Jaipur monuments appear again and again, often through one distinguishing detail, so link each monument to its builder, its district and its feature.
Practice questions based on the RPSC RAS Prelims syllabus. They follow the exam pattern but are not past-paper questions.
Showing 61–70 of 106 questions
Q62. Which of the following defines the concept of an ‘Oudak Durg’ as described in ancient architectural texts?
Explanation
An Oudak Durg is a water fort, a fortress protected by water on all sides, like an island or river fort. It is one of the classical types of fort described in ancient texts.
Q63. Read Statement I and Statement II carefully regarding the City Palace of Udaipur and choose the correct option.
Statement I: The City Palace of Udaipur presents an architectural mix of Rajasthani, Mughal, Medieval, European, and Chinese architecture.
Statement II: The complex was built entirely by Maharana Udai Singh II within a single decade.
Statement I: The City Palace of Udaipur presents an architectural mix of Rajasthani, Mughal, Medieval, European, and Chinese architecture.
Statement II: The complex was built entirely by Maharana Udai Singh II within a single decade.
Explanation
The City Palace of Udaipur blends Rajasthani, Mughal, medieval, European and Chinese elements, so Statement I is correct. It was built over centuries by many Maharanas, not by Udai Singh II alone in a decade, so Statement II is incorrect.
Q64. The following major Rajput forts were constructed in different eras. Provide their correct chronological order of construction, from earliest to most recent:
Explanation
Chittorgarh is the oldest, followed by Jaisalmer (12th century), Kumbhalgarh (15th century) and Mehrangarh (1459). The order is Chittorgarh, Jaisalmer, Kumbhalgarh, Mehrangarh.
Q65. The ‘Phool Mahal’ inside Mehrangarh Fort is highly acclaimed for what specific interior feature?
Explanation
The Phool Mahal in Mehrangarh is known for its ceiling decorated with gold leaf work. It was used as a hall for royal celebrations.
Q66. The Ranakpur Jain Temple complex primarily belongs to which sect of Jainism?
Explanation
The Ranakpur Jain temple complex belongs to the Svetambara sect of Jainism. It is dedicated to Adinath and was patronised by Dharna Shah.
Q67. Which of the following best describes the historical architectural contribution of Vidyadhar Bhattacharya?
Explanation
Vidyadhar Bhattacharya was the chief architect of Jaipur city, which he designed on a grid plan for Sawai Jai Singh II. He did not build the Vijay Stambh, Hawa Mahal or Kumbhalgarh.
Q68. The intricate mirror mosaic work that creates the illusion of a starry night with a single candle is the primary attraction of which specific hall in the Amber Fort?
Explanation
The Sheesh Mahal, the Diwan-e-Khas of Amber, is covered with mirror mosaic. A single candle lit in the hall is reflected so many times that it looks like a starry sky.
Q69. In the context of fort architecture, what was the function of the structure known as a ‘Naubat Khana’ or ‘Nakkarkhana’?
Explanation
A Naubat Khana, also known as a Nakkarkhana, is a traditional structure found at the entrance of many Indian forts and palaces. Its primary function was to serve as a drum house where ceremonial music was played. Musicians would use drums and other instruments to announce the arrival of the king, signal the change of time, or mark the beginning of festivities.
Q70. Which notable historical structure was built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh after being inspired by the unique architecture of the Khetri Mahal in Jhunjhunu?
Explanation
The Hawa Mahal in Jaipur was commissioned by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in seventeen ninety-nine. Historical accounts suggest that he was inspired by the unique architecture and ventilation system of the Khetri Mahal in Jhunjhunu. He directed the architect to create a grander version in the capital, resulting in the iconic five-story facade with its numerous windows and sophisticated cooling design.Answer key for these questions
| Q | Correct answer |
|---|---|
| 61 | (d) Jantar Mantar, Udaipur |
| 62 | (c) A fort protected by water on all sides, essentially an island or river fort. |
| 63 | (c) Statement I is correct, but Statement II is incorrect. |
| 64 | (a) Chittorgarh, Jaisalmer, Kumbhalgarh, Mehrangarh |
| 65 | (b) Its extensive gold leaf filigree work on the ceiling. |
| 66 | (c) Svetambara |
| 67 | (d) He was the chief architect responsible for the grid-plan design of Jaipur city. |
| 68 | (b) Diwan-e-Khas (Sheesh Mahal) |
| 69 | (b) It served as the drum house where ceremonial music was played to announce royal entries or the time. |
| 70 | (a) Hawa Mahal |
Key facts from Temples, Forts, Palaces and Monuments
- Maha-Maru is the Rajasthan regional variation of the Nagara style of temple architecture.
- Kumbhalgarh was designed by Mandan under Rana Kumbha, and its innermost section, Katargarh, was his residence.
- The Ranakpur Jain temple is known for its 1,444 uniquely carved marble pillars.
- The Jaivana at Jaigarh Fort is a large wheeled cannon.
- Jaisalmer Fort, on Trikuta Hill, is a living fort with 99 bastions.
- The Kirti Stambh at Chittorgarh is a seven-storied pillar built by the Jain merchant Jija Bhargava.
Frequently asked questions
How many RAS Prelims practice MCQs are there on Temples, Forts, Palaces and Monuments?
This page has 106 practice MCQs on Temples, Forts, Palaces and Monuments (Rajasthan History, Art and Culture). Each has the correct answer, and most have an explanation.
Which Rajasthan forts are in the UNESCO Hill Forts group?
Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh, Ranthambore, Gagron, Amer and Jaisalmer, inscribed together in 2013 as the Hill Forts of Rajasthan. Forts such as Taragarh in Ajmer are not part of the inscribed group.
What is a living fort?
A fort where a large civilian population still lives inside the fortification walls. Jaisalmer Fort is the best-known example, with homes, shops, temples and hotels inside its walls on Trikuta Hill.
Who designed Kumbhalgarh?
The architect Mandan, under the patronage of Rana Kumbha, who built many of the fortresses of Mewar. Kumbhalgarh also served as a refuge for the Mewar royal family in crises and is known for its long encircling wall.