Destination: Alwar |
Destination Type: Fort and Palaces |
City: Alwar |
Country: India |
By Air : The nearest airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi which is 141 kms away followed by Jaipur International Airport, about 166 kms away.
By Road : Buses to Alwar are available at regular intervals from Delhi, Jaipur and Bharatpur.
By Rail : One can take the Shatabdi Express from Delhi to Jaipur which halts at Alwar.
Known as THE TIGER GATE of Rajasthan surrounded by Aravali hills, it has a perfect picture postcard setting and looks as if carved magnificently out of rocks. Lush green deciduous forests and lakes, dotted with architectural splendors, surround the harsh hills. The deep valleys and the thick forest cover is a haven for many species of birds and animals. It is one of the oldest cities of the state and its prehistoric and historic sites are an archaeologists delight. Paradoxically Alwar is both the oldest and the newest of the Rajput Kingdoms of Rajasthan. On the one hand, it traces its tradition back to the kingdoms of Viratnagar that flourished here around 1500 B.C. it Is also known as Matasya Desh where the pandavs. The mlghtly heroes the Mahabharata, spent the last year of their 13 year exile. The city of Alwar is believed to have founded by a member of the Kachh family who hailed from Amber, but control was wrested from the Kachhwahas of Nikumbhas.
The grandeur, beauty and delicacy of design of innumerable forts and palaces of the region, the tranquil lakes, stately hunting lodges, sites of archeological importance, thick forests with several of birds and animals intermingled with an equally diverse socio-cultural configuration have made this region a traveler delight.
Bala Qila : The Bala Qila (young fort) was built on the foundations of a 10th century mud fort and is a towering structure set atop a hill. Strong fortifications, graceful marble columns and delicate latticed balconies make up the fort. Bala Qila can be entered through six gates, namely Jai Pol, Suraj Pol, Laxman Pol, Chand Pol, Krishan Pol and Andheri Gate.
Alwar City Palace : Built in 1793 AD by Raja Bakhtawar Singh, the City Palace is an amazing mélange of the Rajputana and Islamic styles of architecture. The highlight of this palace are graceful marble pavilions set on lotus flower bases in the central courtyard. The palace that once belonged to the Maharaja has been converted into the District Collectorate. Its grand halls and chambers now house government offices.
The Palace Museum : The Palace Museum is a must-visit for anyone with an interest in the opulent life and lifestyle led by the Maharajas of Alwar. Rare manuscripts, including one depicting Emperor Babur’s life, Ragamala paintings and miniatures and even historic swords that once belonged to Muhammad Ghori, Emperor Akbar and Aurangzeb can be found here.
Moosi Maharani Chhatri : This cenotaph, built in the memory of Maharaja Bakhtawar Singh and his queen, Rani Moosi, reflects the Indo-Islamic style of architecture. The upper portion comprising columned pavilions and domed arches is made of marble while the lower section consists of pillars in red sandstone. The memorial is rated as one of the finest of its type.
Fateh Jung Gumbad : This spectacular tomb, which is a combination of domes and minarets is an artistic marvel. Constructed from high quality sandstone, its massive dome can be seen from afar and is a blend of Hindu and Muslim architecture. It is dedicated to Fateh Jung who was a kind-hearted minister of the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan.
Purjan Vihar (Company Garden) : One has Maharaja Sheodan Singh to thank for this attractive garden that was conceptualised and constructed in 1868. A picturesque place, locally known as Simla (the Summer House) was added to this garden to provide respite from the blazing sun.
Bhangarh : Fifty kilometres from Sariska Sanctuary is the splendid town of Bhangarh which was built in the 17th century by Raja Madho Singh. The most popular legend states that the town was cursed by an evil magician and was subsequently abandoned. The evil effect of the curse is believed to be working even to this day. In fact, Bhangarh holds the distinction of being one of the most haunted places in India.
Garbhaji Water Falls : Garbhaji Falls is a popular destination for foreign and local tourists. The breathtaking sight of the water cascading off the rocks is the best feature of the place. Ideal for photographers and nature lovers, it is also popular with people who love to explore a city beyond its man-made structures.
Hill Fort Kesroli : This 14th century fort is best known for its turrets, ramparts and arched verandas. It was built by the Yaduvanshi Rajputs, who are said to be descendants of Lord Krishna. Today, the fort has been converted into a heritage hotel.
Pandu Pol : A trail through the Sariska Sanctuary gate leads to this temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. At the Pandu Pol or Pandu gate, gushes a spring that appears to magically cascade down from the hard and compact rocks. Legend has it that the Pandava brothers took refuge here during their exile.
Neemrana Fort : History says that Neemrana Fort was built by the Yaduvanshis, believed to be the descendants of Lord Krishna. Its story is rife with conquests and defeats and it has passed from the Rajputs to the Mughals and the Jats, before finally coming back to the Rajputs in 1775. Today, it is being run as a famous heritage hotel.
Silliserh Lake : Located 15 kilometres to the southwest of Alwar, this tranquil lake is nestled amidst forested hills and boasts of magnificent cenotaphs on its bank. In 1845, Maharaja Vinay Singh constructed a hunting chalet here for his Queen, Shila. Today it is a tourist bungalow.
Sariska Tiger Reserve : Sariska Tiger Reserve, the first tiger reserve in the world to have successfully relocated tigers, is just 200 kilometres from Delhi and 107 kilometres from Jaipur. It was declared a sanctuary in 1955 and became a National Park in 1979.
Tijara Jain Temple : About 60 kilometres from the Alwar-Delhi route lies this important centre of Jain pilgrimage. The exquisitely decorated ancient temple was built to commemorate the eighth Tirthankar, Shri Chandra Prabha Bhagwan. The son of King Mahasen and Queen Sulakshana, he ruled his kingdom for several years before receiving Diksha and being initiated. After serving mankind for several years, he meditated for a month and attained Nirvana.
Moti Doongri : Moti Doongri was originally built in the year 1882. Till the year 1928, it was the main residence of the royal family of Alw
Visit Sariska Tiger Reserve, Flying Fox Neemrana & Siliserh Lake