Nahargarh Fort

Overview

Nahargarh Fort crowns the rugged Aravalli Hills above Jaipur, originally named Sudarshangarh and later renamed after a Rathore prince whose spirit is said to have haunted the site. Built in 1734 by Sawai Jai Singh II, it served as a retreat and defence post for the city below.

Highlights

• Madhavendra Bhawan: Suite of identical apartments built for nine queens, each connected by corridors but with separate entrances for privacy.
• Panoramic Views: Sweeping vistas of Jaipur's cityscape, especially magical at sunset.
• Wax Museum: Modern attraction within the fort featuring figures of Rajasthani royals and Bollywood stars.

History

Constructed in 1734 as the outermost defensive ring for Jaipur, Nahargarh was extended in 1868 by Sawai Ram Singh II, who added the Madhavendra Bhawan. The fort never faced a direct attack but sheltered European residents during the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857.

Visitor Tips

• Sunset: Plan to arrive by 4:30 PM to catch the golden hour light over the city.
• Fort walk: The 2-km wall walk connects Nahargarh to Jaigarh Fort.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.