which is located in the northwestern part of India. However, it is more than a mere gateway to the rich cultural treasure that lies beyond: Alwar has its own heritage, which goes back to the mythological legends of the Mahabharata.
The Alwar Fort, which is popularly known as Bala Quila, is one of the city’s most beloved structures. Located at 340 metres above the city, the fort was built in the 15th century by the Khanzada Rajput ruler, Hasan Khan Mewati. Over the years, several dynasties have reigned over it – including the Mughals, Marathas and Kachwaha Rajputs – giving the building its unique blend of architectural styles.
Impressively grand gates, elaborate towers and meticulously done murals and mirror work on the ceilings and walls make this 18th century City Palace a stunning sight. Also known as Vinay Vilas Mahal, the palace is a true archetype of Mughal and Rajput styles of architecture.
Sprawling over an area of 866 square kilometres, the Sariska National Park and Tiger Reserve offers a diversity of terrains to admire including grasslands, deciduous forests and rocky and hilly cliffs. Due to this, there’s a wide variety of flora and fauna on offer and some incredible wildlife sights, including the Royal Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, four-horned antelope and rare Indian Eagle Owl.
One of the most beautiful artificial lakes in the area, Siliserh Lake’s beauty is further exaggerated by the mountains of the Aravalli Range in the backdrop. The lake was built in the 19th century by Maharaja Vinay Singh in order to supply water to Alwar.
If exploring haunted sites gives you an adrenaline rush, then this 17th-century fortress is a must-visit. The Bhangarh Fort has gained widespread notoriety as the most haunted place in India, leading the Archaeological Survey of India to put up a sign prohibiting visitors in the area post-sunset.
Unmissable thanks to its anchored-ship like facade, the Vijay Mandir Palace was commissioned in the early 1900s by Maharaja Jai Singh. The ancient royal family lineage of Alwar still lives here, meaning parts of the sprawling palace grounds are not accessible to the public. However, the Sita Ram Temple, within the complex and surrounded by luxurious gardens, is open to visitors.
One of the best examples of royal Rajasthani architecture is the Moosi Maharani Ki Chattri (cenotaphs of Queen Moosi). A double-storey structure with red sandstone pillars and white-marble flooring, the building’s most striking feature is the frescoes on the ceilings and mythological carvings on the walls.
Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the Jagannath Temple plays an important role in the Hindu religion and attracts visitors and devotees from all over the country. In this temple, Lord Vishnu is accompanied by idols of other deities, including Sita Ram Ji, Janki Ji and Lord Jagannath of Puri.
87, Shiv Nagar Colony
Near Ramada Hotel
Rampura Circle Udaipur 313001
Rajasthan, India.
