Nahargarh Fort situated on the Aravalli hills offers you an experiential retreat as you drive off city life to reach to this architectural wonder.
Overlooking a beautiful lake, Nahargarh Fort offers a visual treat by capturing the entire city from a hill top. In fact, the sunset from the fort terrace is a sight which you should never miss for anything else when here.
A food court and a restaurant at the top of the fort further offers an excellent view. In fact, this is one fort which offers adventure, thrill, excitement, horror stories and much more to the avid traveller:
History of Nahargarh Fort
Nahargarh in literal form means ‘abode of tigers’.
As per the legends, this fort was named as Nahargarh after the spirt of a Rathore, Nahar Singh started haunting the site during the construction of the fort . Strange phenomenons were occurring in those times as the daily construction work was destroyed in the night by some unseen forces.
Local people confirm that the fort was first named Sudarshangarh, however, it was later named as Nahargarh after the spirit of Nahar Singh Bhomia, a prince, who was haunting the place and destroyed the construction. As believed, a temple was constructed in the fort premises to appease the spirit.
Significance of Nahargarh Fort
Nahargarh Fort is home to Jaipur’s first wax museum called as Sheesh Mahal (the palace of mirrors). The sheesh mahal, designed to honor the Mughal and Rajput architecture, showcases a massive 25 million glass pieces, carved with intricate designs and gold polishing.
The wax museum encompasses many well-known personalities including the likes of Amitabh Bachchan. The museum also has detailed backdrops and well-designed sets along with the life like replica of many national heroes.
Sheesh Mahal in other parts of Rajasthan does not have a glass floor and hence this makes it a unique place to visit.
Further Nahargarh fort along with Amer Fort and Jaigarh Fort formed the defence to the then capital when Amer stood tall as the capital of the Rajput. The city was bustling with activity and markets in the 1600s.
How to Reach Nahargarh Fort
Located 6 KM outside the city of Jaipur, the drive to the fort from the city centre is more than just picturesque. With nature’s bounty spread around and peacocks dancing by the roadside, an uphill drive through the forest will leave you in awe of its beauty
Meanwhile, the best way to reach the destination is to hire a cab. Even autos can take you to the fort entrance. There are shuttles also available from the foot of the hill.
Nahargarh Fort Entry and Timings
Nahargarh fort remains open from 10 00 AM in the morning to 5 30 PM in the evening. The entry fee for overseas tourists is INR 200 and students are INR 25.
The wax museum and Sheesh Mahal are situated near the entrance of fort. The entrance fee for each is INR 350.
Best Time to Visit the Nahargarh Fort
Best time to visit the Nahargarh Fort is during winter as the weather remains pleasant through out the day. The fort forms a perfect location to spend an entire day. You can couple it with the two forts nearby, Amer and Jaigharh.
It is advisable to first visit Nahargarh fort. You can spend the morning there and have lunch there. There after you can move to Jaigarh which is only a KM from Nahargarh.
Most Significant Aspect of Nahargarh Fort
The abode of tigers has an amazing view. Earlier it was a lonely place with magnificent structures and a few places to eat. But now the fort is bustling with noise due to the recent opening of the glass palace and wax museum.
All about Nahargarh Fort
- Famous for : Monument Fort / Fortress History & Culture
- Fee : INR 200 for Foreign Tourists and INR 50 for Indians
- Visiting Time : All days 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Visit Duration : Around 2 – 3 hour