Alwar

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. It is presently accessible by road through Pratap Bandh forest entry leading to Jaipol. Bala quila buffer forest safari is available to the visitors. Fort entry timing 8 am to 3.30 pm. Safari timing: 6 am to 4.30 pm. (Wednesday closed), Entry for Bala Kila is temporary closed for the tourist.

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 Government 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 extensive display of armory are exhibited in three large halls. Ticket window timing: 9.45 am to 4.45 pm

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. Mythological and court scene painting and sculptures adorn the ceiling. An artificial lake Sagar is situated nearby, it has distinct pattern of stairs and towers in perfect symmetry.

This spectacular tomb, which is a combination of domes and minarets is an artistic marvel. Constructed on a perfect square platform, its massive dome can be seen from afar and is an example of mediaeval architecture. It is dedicated to Fateh Jung who was a kind-hearted minister of the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan.

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.

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.Entry timing: Sunrise to sunset.

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.

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. Entry is only allowed on Tuesday, Saturday & full moon day of the month.

This artificial dam was constructed in 1910 by Maharaja Jai Singh. The banks of water body houses shaded pavilions and lovely towers. It is an excellent excursion spot, especially when the entire landscape turns lush green during the monsoon.(Photo courtesy: Resh Pooran).

Located 15 kilometres to the southwest of Alwar, this tranquil lake is nestled amidst forested hills and wooded hills. In 1845, Maharaja Vinay Singh constructed a hunting palace here for his Queen, Shila. It has been converted into RTDC hotel. Visitors can enjoy boating in the lake. Winter water birds and sun bathing crocodiles is a visual retreat during winter season at Siliserh.

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.Entry to the forest is closed on Wednesdays.

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 was originally built in the year 1882. Till the year 1928, it was the main residence of the royal family of Alwar. After 1928, Maharaja Jai Singh decided to demolish the old palace and later built a more magnificent one in its place. Presently it has beautiful garden and view points for the city.

The Sariska-Alwar road leads to this enchanting site where pilgrims bathe in hot sulphur springs. Tinkling scattered temple bells and strolling langurs lend it a unique ambience. It is famous as the place where Mandav Rishi sought penance.

Bhartrihari Temple is a vibrant pilgrimage centre attracting people from across the country. It revolves around the legend of King Bhartrihari who is said to have spent the last years of his life in this ancient place amidst the hills.

Located 80 kilometres southwest of Alwar, this picturesque spot houses hot springs and is also known for a temple dedicated to Naraini Mata. The yearly fair held here on the occasion of Baisakh Sudi is attended by people of all walks of society.

Located deep inside the Sariska Tiger Reserve and in the middle of the rugged Aravalli range, Neelkanth literally needs to be found. The way to the temple has rough roads, steep turns and minimal signs of human existence, and all that adds to the mystique surrounding it. A stunning example of the century old, northern architecture and Khajurao-like carvings, the temple will leave you speechless and surprised by its unexpected offerings. It is actually a cluster of temples and open worship places, a good 30 Kilometers into a buffer zone of the tiger reserve, which is exemplified by intricate stone carvings and burgeoning views of the lush forest across the temple landscape. There’s more to the venue than the main Shiv temple. There are two smaller structures behind the temple and when walking up to them, you might bump into some pretty birds, especially peacocks. Interestingly, just about 100 meters from the temple stands an oversized, monolithic stone statue of the Jain Tirthankar Shantinath; to discover it, you will need a little guidance from the locals. Pic credit - Nishant Singh Sisodia

Located 24 kilometres south of Alwar, this shrine is situated amidst rocky hills. The old Shiva temple has two natural ponds which receive water from the surrounding hills. Picturesque and peaceful, this place is especially worth visiting during monsoon.

Located in Neemrana, the Neemrana Baori is not very far from the fort palace. The first sight itself hints at how glorious the place must have been in the past. A marvel of architecture, Neemrana Baori looks more like a fortress than a step well. With each floor having a height of about 20 feet, and with 9 floors making up the entire structure, you can imagine how deep it runs. There are no carvings in the structure, maybe because it was built rather later in time, after the more architectural times of earlier centuries. However, the structure still shows all signs of being a glorious building. At the ground level, there used to be colonnaded openings later they had to descend steps to reach the deep water source. The lower steps or floors were of course under water most of the time. In its essence, the Neemrana Baori is a glimpse into the architectural nuances of the past, gazing upon which you shall be thoroughly amazed!

The mosque situated to the east of Tijara Town is popularly known as Lal Masjid. It is approximately 55 km from Alwar city. The red sandstone structure is rectangular with minars at four corners and arched doorways. The three arched doorways open into a hall which used to have three domes. The southern dome, however, has fallen. Faint Arabic inscriptions are painted at places on the plastered surface in the northern part of the hall. Entry timing: Sunrise to Sunset

Raja Bharthrihari ji were ruler of Malwa region and later in his life left his kingdom in search of spirituality. He traveled extensively around the forests of Alwar- Viratnagar. The interesting story of the royalty doing penance as a disciple of Guru Gorakh Nath and then settling in the public mind comes to life in this panorama. Panorama Bhawan is itself an attractive architectural building. A visit to Alwar cannot be completed without seeing this panorama. Entry timing: 10.00 am to 05.00 pm, Ticket: 10 Rs for Adult and 5 Rs for Children

Hasan Khan Mewati was great warrior and patriot of Alwar region. He is also known as Shah- a-Mewat. Hasan Khan fought along with Maharana Sanga in the Battle of Khanwa against Mughal ruler Babur. The panorama dedicated to this great personality depicts the life story and great events of medieval India. Panorama also houses a life size statue of Hasan Khan and the building is designed artistically. Entry timing: 10.00 am to 05.00 pm

The city centre Hope Circus around bustling markets in Alwar is best accessible on foot. Famous markets of city is located in close proximity to this place. Hope circus was inaugurated in the year 1940. This is a circular heritage of city with stairs towards top from all four directions. Famous city markets of Alwar is located in close proximity to this place.