Nahargarh Fort

Jaipur, Rajasthan

Nahargarh Fort

Fort in Jaipur


could-see attraction

Opening hours: 10:00am-6:00pm

Address: Krishna Nagar, Brahampuri, Jaipur, Rajasthan

Ticket price: Indian/foreigner ₹50/200

Visit duration: People typically spend up to 1.5 hours here

Nahargarh Fort, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Old entrance door at Nahargarh Fort, Jaipur, Rajasthan

About Nahargarh Fort, Jaipur

Rajasthan prides itself on the majestic architecture of stunning forts. One such majestic fort in the state is the Nahargarh Fort in Jaipur. One of the largest forts in the entire country, this fort is located in the Aravalli mountain range. Nahargarh Fort was a part of Jaipur's three-point defence strategy including the Amer Fort and the Jaigarh Fort.


For tourists who love scenic views and magnificent architecture, the fort is one of the best places to visit in Jaipur.



History of Nahargarh Fort


Nahargarh Fort was built in 1734 by the then king of Jaipur, Sawai Jai Singh. It was initially named Sudarshangarh but then the name was changed to Nahargarh. There is a quite interesting story surrounding the change of name. It was believed that during the construction of the fort, the deceased prince Nahar Singh Bhomia caused trouble and hindered the construction work. To appease the prince, Sawai Jai Singh built a temple dedicated to him and also renamed the fort after him. Since then, the construction work went on smoothly. In 1868, during the reign of Sawai Ram Singh, the fort was extended.


The fort was constructed on the top of the ridge with defence being the main purpose of the fort. The walls of Nahargarh extend up to Jaigarh Fort, putting up a wall along the city. Interestingly, the fort was never attacked in all these years. In fact, when you visit this fort you can spot field guns but they were never used for attacking. The firing of the guns was used to indicate the time!


There were, however, significant historical events that took place in the Nahargarh Fort. Treaties with the Maratha forces were signed here after they warred with Jaipur in the 18th century. Also, the walls of the fort offered shelter to Europeans, including the British Resident's wife, during the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857.


The fort also served as a retreat for the royal family while they were on hunting trips.


Architecture of Nahargarh Fort, Jaipur, Rajasthan

Architecture of Nahargarh Fort


The Nahargarh Fort is designed in the Indo-European style of architecture with a remarkable entrance called Tadigate along with several spectacular structures built within the fort's premises.


As soon as you enter the fort, towards your left you can see temples dedicated to the mighty rulers of Jaipur. The temples are examples of architectural brilliance with intricate carvings. Another temple inside the premises is one that is dedicated to the Rathore prince, Nahar Singh Bhomia.


There is a Diwan-i-Aam or common hall in the fort which was used for meetings by kings to resolve complaints of the common people. There are also two stepwells in the fort. Unlike any other stepwells in India, these were designed asymmetrically which makes it all the more special. The reason for the asymmetry is that the wells were constructed without affecting the natural mountain terrain.


The fort also boasts the Madhavendra Palace, one of the most famous attractions in the fort. It has one magnificent suite for the king Sawai Madho Singh and nine suits built for each of his nine queens. These decorated suits and the delicate frescoes stand testament to the grand lifestyle and the rich culture of the Rajputs.



The view of the city from Nahargarh Fort


Nahargarh Fort offers a panoramic view of the city which makes it one of the most famous tourist destinations in Jaipur.


During the daytime and after sunset, the view from the fort is a complete contrast to each other. While during the day, the fort offers a sunbathed view of Jaipur, in the evening, you can watch the beautiful sunset.


View of Jaipur city from Nahargarh Fort at sunset, Rajasthan

Entry fee and timings


For Indian nationals, the entry fee to visit Nahargarh Fort is ₹50. Foreign tourists have to pay ₹200 for entry. Students get discounted tickets. For Indian students, the entry fee is ₹5 while for foreign students, the entry fee is ₹25.


Nahargarh Fort opens its gates to visitors at 10:00 am and closes at 6:00 pm. It is advisable not to stay beyond sunset since the fort is surrounded by thick deciduous forests.



Facts and tips about Nahargarh Fort


  • While most people say that Nahargarh got its name after the spirit of the Rathore prince, others opine that Nahargarh means 'abode of tigers' and that at the time of construction the fort was home to tigers.

  • Several Bollywood movies like Rang de Basanti, Jodhaa Akbar, and a Bengali movie by Oscar-winning director Satyajit Ray were shot here in this fort.

  • The day you decide to visit the Nahargarh Fort, wear comfortable, preferably cotton clothes, and shoes in which you can walk. Carry water bottles to keep yourself hydrated and sunglasses and wide-rim hats to protect yourself from the sun.

How to reach Nahargarh Fort

Dominating the city of Jaipur, Nahargarh Fort is reached via a 10 km road snaking through the hills above the city. Alternatively, there is a steep 800m footpath starting from the foothill and the hike up takes about half an hour.


Other attractions near Nahargarh Fort

  • Amber Palace (Amer Fort) - 11 km
  • Hawa Mahal - 14 km
  • City Palace - 14 km
  • Jantar Mantar - 14 km
  • Albert Hall Museum - 16 km

FAQs about Nahargarh Fort

1. How much time should I keep in hand to visit Nahargarh Fort?

Keep at least 1.5 hours to visit the magnificent fort. There are various places to visit within the fort’s premises like the Nahargarh Biological Park, Jaipur Wax Museum, Sculpture Park and Sheesh Mahal. For some of these, you need to purchase entry tickets. The fort also has cycling and trekking facilities for those who are looking for adventure.


2. Where can I eat at the Nahargarh Fort?

You can eat at any nearby restaurant but to enjoy a panoramic view of Jaipur, you can visit Padao which is an open-air Indian cuisine restaurant with vegetarian and non-vegetarian food options.


3. Can I click photographs and shoot videos inside the fort premises?

Yes, you can click photographs and shoot videos inside the fort premises. However, in some parts of the fort like the Nahargarh Biological Park, you will have to pay camera charges if you want to shoot using a professional camera.


4. Which is the best time to visit Nahargarh Fort?

To experience pleasant weather with temperatures around 20-22 degrees celsius, visit Nahargarh Fort any time between October to March.


Water tank at Nahargarh Fort, Jaipur, Rajasthan
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