Nahargarh Fort- Jaipur

Nestled along the ridge of the ancient Aravalli Hills in Jaipur, the Nahargarh Fort attractively looks over the city. Nahargarh Fort, menaing the abode of tiger, was built by Jai Singh in the year 1734. Extensions were further made in 1868. Erected to bolster up the defense of Jaipur, the fort is today one of the most frequented spots in the city. So, while in the pink city, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the architectural wonders that are dispersed all around the city.


Legend Goes ...
The legend revolving around the change of name of the fort has it that when constructions were underway, unusual things began to happen at night. Everyday, when the labourers came to resume work, they found that the previous day's construction was spoiled. Further findings revealed that the land once belonged to a Rathore prince Nahar Singh who was no more. The place being his spiritual abode, any sort of disturbances were unworthy of appreciation. The Maharajah finally resolved to build a small fortress at a place called Purana Ghat where the troubled spirit could reside. And then the fort was named Nahargarh after the dead Rathore prince.

From A Fort To A Monsoon Retreat
Maharajah Sawai Madho Singh, in the 1880s, settled to turn the fort into a monsoon retreat. Consequently, he ordered the Raj Imarat, accountable for royal construction projects, to design a pleasure palace within the fort. He named it Madhavendra Bhawan. It was Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, a designer from Jaipur, who shaped this palace with fine frescoes and stucco designs in the interiors.


Remains Immortal
When floodlit at night, the Nahargarh Fort wears a spectacular look. To everyone's regret, a greater part of the fort lies in ruins save the walls and the additions that were made in the 19th century. Rooms, appointed for the maharajahs, also exist to give you a hint of the styling sense of the monarchs of yore. The cannons installed across the Hazuri Burj were used to announce the time to the city lying at its feet. It's interesting to note that the city never suffered an attack from either the Mughals or other Rajput kings and the cannons therefore were not in use as they were supposed to.


Reaching the Fort
To gain access to the fort, one needs to walk past the streets at the foot of the hill and then trek 2 km up a steep and curving path.


Getting to Jaipur
The Sanganer Airport at Jaipur provides links to the key destinations in Rajasthan. Rail routes also connect the city to the major destinations in the state and the country. Good road routes are also available to reach the city.


Local Modes of Transport
Rickshaws and auto-rickshaws are available for moving around within the city.