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Alwar, a city rich in history and culture, is home to some of Rajasthan’s most magnificent forts. These majestic structures, each with their own unique stories, offer a captivating glimpse into the region’s royal past. From the towering Bala Quila to the mysterious Bhangarh Fort, Alwar forts are architectural marvels that stand as symbols of resilience and grandeur. Visiting these forts is like stepping back in time, where tales of valiant kings, architectural prowess, and legendary battles come alive. Explore these remarkable forts and experience the heritage and splendour that make Alwar a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.
7 Top Alwar Forts To Explore
Here are the 7 best Alwar forts, which make up to be incredible historical sites for tourists from all over the nation:
1. Bala Quila
Photo: Sher-e-mewat / Wikimedia Commons
The imposing Bala Quila, also known as Alwar Fort, stands 1,000 feet above the city and has been a silent witness to numerous battles and royal dramas over the centuries. Built by Hasan Khan Mewati in 1550, it has seen the rule of Mughals, Marathas, and the British. The fort stretches over 5 kilometres, with 15 large towers and 51 small towers, providing a glimpse into the military strength of ancient Alwar. Within its walls are several temples, palaces, and water tanks that reflect the fort’s grandeur and strategic importance in Rajputana.
Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹25 for Indian citizens and ₹100 for foreign tourists
Major Attractions: Panoramic views, historical architecture, ruins of old structures
2. Bhangarh Fort
Photo: Chainwit. / Wikimedia Commons
Though famous for its haunted reputation, Bhangarh Fort, one of the historical forts in Alwar, showcases impressive remnants of a once-thriving town. The massive fort complex includes palaces, temples, and havelis, all now in ruins. The fort’s main entrance, the Lahori Gate, leads visitors to an eerie marketplace known as Dancers’ Haveli and Jauhari Bazar. Its surroundings are equally mesmerising, set against the backdrop of the Aravalli Hills. Historians and archaeologists also flock to Bhangarh for its intricate architecture and traces of the flourishing kingdom that once ruled here.
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Major Attractions: Haunted ruins, temples, eerie atmosphere and ancient architecture
3. Kankwari Fort
Photo: Swapnilnarendra / Wikimedia Commons
Perched on a hill within Sariska Tiger Reserve, Kankwari Fort is relatively isolated, providing a peaceful yet historical experience for visitors. The fort, one among the popular forts in Alwar, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the forest and the Aravalli ranges. Due to its location inside the tiger reserve, the journey to Kankwari Fort is an adventure in itself, with opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. The fort’s Mughal architecture reflects its royal past, and the surrounding wilderness adds a unique touch to the historical visit.
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee: Included with Sariska Tiger Reserve entry ₹100 for Indians and ₹200 for foreigners
Major Attractions: Historical significance, panoramic views, wildlife sightings within the reserve
4. Neemrana Fort
Photo: Dan Lundber / Wikimedia Commons
This 15th-century fort-palace is now a top-rated luxury hotel, offering an unmatched royal experience for its guests. Spanning 10 levels and built across 6 acres of land, Neemrana Fort offers everything from royal suites to outdoor pools, beautifully restored to maintain its old-world charm. The fort also hosts cultural performances, offering a blend of traditional Rajasthani music and dance in a royal setting. For thrill-seekers, Neemrana Fort is famous for its zip-lining activities.
Timings: 9 AM to 4 PM (for non-resident guests)
Entry Fee: ₹2,000 (includes lunch)
Major Attractions: Heritage hotel experience, scenic views, zip-lining activities, and historical ambiance
5. Tijara Fort
Photo: Yashvardhan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Tijara Fort is a stunning example of adaptive reuse, where centuries-old architecture meets modern luxury. The fort took nearly 200 years to complete, with its construction starting under the reign of Maharaja Balwant Singh in the 19th century. Today, suites at Tijara Fort are named after well-known painters and designers, providing visitors with an opulent stay. The surrounding countryside, dotted with mustard fields and lakes, makes the setting of Tijara Fort, one of the famous Forts in Alwar, truly magical.
Timings: 9 AM to 4 PM (for non-resident guests)
Entry Fee: ₹1,500 (includes lunch)
Major Attractions: Heritage hotel, beautiful gardens, panoramic views of the countryside
6. Ajabgarh Fort
Photo: Mike Prince / Wikimedia Commons
Ajabgarh Fort, set in a quiet valley between two hills, is lesser-known but equally captivating with its rugged beauty. Its history is shrouded in mystery, with local legends of ghosts and abandoned villages surrounding it. The fort’s architecture is simple yet striking, reflecting a time of both prosperity and conflict. The nearby Ajabgarh village is an ideal spot for those who love to explore rural Rajasthan. Visitors can hike up the hill for panoramic views of the fort and the surrounding landscape.
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Major Attractions: Mysterious history, scenic landscapes, hilltop views
7. Kesroli Fort
Photo: Archit Ratan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Kesroli Fort, originally built by the Yaduvanshi Rajputs in the 14th century, offers a peaceful retreat from modern life. The fort’s location atop a hill provides guests with stunning sunset views over the surrounding countryside. Restored as a heritage hotel, Kesroli offers a unique experience with spacious rooms, antique furnishings, and lush gardens. The fort is renowned for its lengthy history, having seen the development of multiple kingdoms, including the Jats and the Mughals.
Timings: 9 AM to 4 PM (for non-resident guests)
Entry Fee: ₹1,200 (includes tea)
Major Attractions: Heritage hotel stay, panoramic countryside views, historical architecture
Exploring the Alwar forts is like taking a journey through Rajasthan’s royal past, where history, architecture, and nature converge. From the grandeur of Bala Quila to the mystery of Bhangarh Fort, each site tells a unique story of battles, legends, and regal splendour. These forts not only offer a glimpse into the architectural genius of bygone eras but also provide breathtaking views of Alwar’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a traveller seeking adventure, the forts of Alwar promise unforgettable experiences. Experience the best of the forts of Alwar by planning your visit with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Anupamg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
