Nahargarh Fort

Nahargarh Fort in Jaipur

Nahargarh Fort is one of three forts at Jaipur, Amber Fort and Jaigarh Fort, being the other two. Nahargarh Fort is more like the Jaigarh Fort, situated on top of Aravalli Hills, open spaces, fresh air and great views of the city from the windows in the palaces inside the fort. Nahargarh means an abode of tigers. Nahargarh Fort was built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of the city of Jaipur. The fort was extended during the reign of Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II (1835-1880) and the reign of Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh II (1880-1922). During this time beautiful palaces were built in the fort.

History of Nahargarh Fort

Nestled between the Nahargarh hills, Nahargarh Fort was built by Sawai Raja Jai Singh in 1734. The fort is one of the major tourist attractions of the city. Nahargarh fort was built by Sawai Raja Jai Singh and later some splendid additions were done by the successors of Sawai Raja Jai Singh. The fort was renovated in the 19th century and some splendid features were added to the magnificent fort. The older parts of the fort though have withered and lost its charm by the times but the new additions are charming and captivating till date.The Nahargarh Fort is exquisitely constructed. It was used as the retreat for the ladies of kings and maharajas. The women quarter or the Zenana deorhi are elegantly designed to impress women. The royal quarter Madhavendra Bhawan which spread over the fourth courtyard was specially designed by Maharaja Sawai Raja Jai Singh. There are 12 magnificent designed quarters with all the eminent facilities. Quarters are interlinked with kitchen, spacious corridors and fire place. The exquisitely designed quarters boost of the rich architectural beauty of Rajputana art and the taste of luxury of the Rajas and Maharajas of bygone era. Nahargarh Fort also known as the tiger fort has a legend related to it.

Architecture of Nahargarh Fort

Nahargarh meaning abode of the tigers was built by Jai Singh to bolster the defense of Amber. The legend also has it that it was named Nahargarh after Nahar Singh a prince whose spirit would destroy the construction and not allow its progress further. So after a tantrik prayer to the spirit it agreed to leave on condition that the fort is named after him. The Madhavendra Bhawan, built by Sawai Ram Singh II has uniquely a cluster of 12 identical suits for queens and at the head is a suit for the king himself. The rooms are linked by corridors and retain some delicate frescos as well as toilets and kitchen hearths. It was used by members of the royal family for excursion in summers and is now even a favoured picnic spot. Durg Cafeteria just above the entrance sells meals and refreshments, while Padao Restaurant on the west sells drinks around sunset.

Location of Nahargarh Fort

Nahargarh Fort is located on the sheer rugged ridge of Aravali Hills and it forms an impressive northern backdrop of Jaipur. It looks most classy when floodlit at night. The fort overlooks the city and presents a glittering view of the city lights. It was built in 1734 and extended in 1868.

Attractions of Nahargarh Fort

According to the local legend it is believed that the spirit of the Prince used to haunt the site of the fort. The spirit of the prince would not allow the workers and artisans to go to the construction site. Various religious prayers were performed by Tantrik to make the evil spirit satisfied. After performing several rituals, the spirit made an appearance and agreed to give up the evil activities once the fort was named after him.One of the major highlight of the Nahargarh fort is the stunning view of the Man Sagar Lake and the surrounding areas that can be viewed form the fort. The magnificent view of Man Sagar Lake has never failed to lure visitors with its charming beauty. Visit this magnificent fort while you are in Jaipur, Rajasthan to worth your tour to Jaipur or Rajasthan. The fort glorifies the rich culture and the glorious age of the chivalrous Rajas and Maharajas of the city. Jaipur is well connected by air, road and train with all the major cities of India.

More Info

Tourist Timings: 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m - Daily
Photography charges: Indian :Rs. 10.00 ,foreigner: Rs. 30:00
Entry Fee: for Indian: Rs. 10.00 and Foreigners Fee: Rs.50.00
Location: Lies 6 km North of Jaipur, just below the Jaigarh Fort
Highlights: Offers a picturesque view of Jaipur