Nahargarh Fort Jaipur

Perched atop the rugged Aravalli hills, overlooking the enchanting Pink City of Jaipur, Nahargarh Fort Jaipur stands as a regal testament to Jaipur’s rich history and architectural prowess. This magnificent fort, known for its formidable structure and breathtaking vistas, has witnessed centuries of royal glory and turbulent battles. In this blog post, we embark on an enthralling journey to explore the captivating history, visiting hours, nearby attractions, and entry fee of Nahargarh Fort Jaipur, immersing ourselves in the regal charm of Rajasthan’s majestic past.

History of Nahargarh Fort Jaipur

Nahargarh Fort Jaipur, whose name translates to “Abode of Tigers,” has a fascinating history steeped in local legends. The fort was built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur, as a part of the city’s defensive fortifications. It was strategically constructed to provide protection to the city and its residents against external invasions.

Architecture and Design

Nahargarh Fort Jaipur is a fine example of Rajputana architecture, reflecting a perfect blend of Mughal and Indian architectural styles. The fort’s massive walls and bastions were ingeniously designed to withstand enemy attacks. The interior boasts impressive palaces, courtyards, and intricate frescoes, showcasing the artistic grandeur of the bygone era.

Timing of Nahargarh Fort Jaipur

Nahargarh Fort Jaipur welcomes visitors throughout the year. The fort’s visiting hours are from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, allowing ample time to explore its historical marvels and savor the panoramic vistas. The best time to visit is during the pleasant months of October to March when the weather is ideal for sightseeing.

Attractions within Nahargarh Fort

Madhavendra Bhawan: A splendid palace complex within the fort, Madhavendra Bhawan once served as the royal residence for the king and his queens. Its well-preserved architecture, colorful frescoes, and cooling breeze corridors offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the royals.
Sunset Viewpoint: Nahargarh Fort is renowned for offering breathtaking sunset views over the Pink City. The enchanting hues of the setting sun cast a magical spell on the cityscape, making it an unforgettable experience for visitors.
Stepwell: The fort complex also features an intricately designed stepwell, showcasing the architectural ingenuity of the era and serving as a vital water source for the fort’s inhabitants.

Nearby Attractions

Nahargarh Fort’s strategic location allows visitors to explore other captivating attractions in and around Jaipur. Some nearby attractions include:

Amer Fort: One of Rajasthan’s most iconic forts, Amer Fort boasts magnificent architecture, splendid palaces, and enchanting light shows in the evening.
Jaigarh Fort: A sister fort to Nahargarh, Jaigarh Fort offers stunning views of Amer Fort and the surrounding countryside. It houses the world’s largest cannon on wheels, Jaivana.
Jal Mahal: A mesmerizing palace in the middle of the serene Man Sagar Lake, known for its elegant architecture and captivating ambiance.

Entry Fee to Nahargarh Fort Jaipur

The entry fee to Nahargarh Fort Jaipur is nominal for Indian tourists and slightly higher for foreign tourists. The ticket includes access to all the attractions within the fort, including Madhavendra Bhawan, the sunset viewpoint, and the stepwell.

50 per person for Indians
5 per person for Indian Students
200 per person for Foreign Tourists

How to Reach Nahargarh Fort Jaipur

Reaching Nahargarh Fort from the airport, railway station, and bus stand in Jaipur is convenient due to its strategic location and well-connected transportation network. Here’s how you can reach Nahargarh Fort from these transportation hubs:

From Jaipur International Airport

By Taxi or Ride-hailing Service: The most convenient way to reach Nahargarh Fort from the airport is by hiring a taxi or using a ride-hailing service like Uber or Ola. The fort is located at a distance of approximately 20 kilometers from the airport, and the journey should take around 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
By Prepaid Taxi: Jaipur International Airport offers prepaid taxi services at the designated taxi counters. You can book a prepaid taxi to Nahargarh Fort, and the fare will be based on the distance and the type of vehicle chosen.

From Jaipur Railway Station (Jaipur Junction)

By Taxi or Auto-rickshaw: Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available outside Jaipur Junction. You can hire one to directly reach Nahargarh Fort, which is approximately 12 kilometers away. The journey should take around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic.
By Local Bus: Jaipur Junction is well-connected to different parts of the city through local bus services. You can take a bus heading towards “Nahargarh Fort” or “WTP-Nahargarh Route” to reach your destination. Ask the conductor or locals for the correct bus route and stop.

From Sindhi Camp Bus Stand

By Auto-rickshaw or Taxi: Auto-rickshaws and taxis are available outside Sindhi Camp Bus Stand. You can hire one to directly reach Nahargarh Fort, which is approximately 7 kilometers away. The journey should take around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
By Local Bus: Sindhi Camp Bus Stand is a major bus terminal in Jaipur, and there are local buses plying to various parts of the city. You can take a bus heading towards “Nahargarh Fort” or “WTP-Nahargarh Route” to reach the fort.

More Information

The history of Nahargarh Fort in Jaipur is filled with fascinating stories and legends. Let’s delve deeper into the historical significance of this majestic citadel:

The Legend of Nahar Singh Bhomia

Nahargarh Fort Jaipur is said to derive its name from Nahar Singh Bhomia, a local spirit or ghost who is believed to have haunted the area before the fort’s construction. According to the legend, the spirit of Nahar Singh Bhomia was displeased with the construction of the fort on the hill, as it was his territory. To appease the spirit and seek its blessings, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II decided to name the fort “Nahargarh,” meaning the “Abode of Nahar,” in honor of the local deity.

Construction and Purpose

Nahargarh Fort Jaipur was constructed during the early 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur. The construction of the fort began in 1734 and was completed in 1738. The fort was primarily built as a defensive structure to provide protection to the city of Jaipur and its inhabitants from external invasions.

Strategic Location

The strategic location of Nahargarh Fort on the rugged Aravalli hills offered a commanding view of the surrounding landscape, making it an ideal vantage point for observing the movements of enemies and protecting the city. The fort’s elevated position provided a significant advantage in times of war and allowed the rulers to keep a watchful eye over the kingdom.

Historical Significance

Over the years, Nahargarh Fort Jaipur played a crucial role in several historical events. During the reign of Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, the fort served as a safe retreat for the royal family during emergencies and attacks. It was also used as a hunting lodge for the royals, where they could indulge in recreational activities amidst the picturesque wilderness.

Relations with Other Forts

Nahargarh Fort is closely associated with two other forts in Jaipur – Amer Fort and Jaigarh Fort. The three forts are strategically interconnected and formed a formidable defense network for the city of Jaipur. A passage known as the “Jaigarh-Nahargarh Fort Trek” allowed communication and passage between Nahargarh and Jaigarh forts during times of need.

Nahargarh Fort in British Era

During the British Raj, Nahargarh Fort underwent certain modifications to serve as a residence for British officials and dignitaries. British Resident, Sir Thomas Roe, stayed at the fort during his visit to Jaipur in the 18th century. Later, it was also used as a British military barracks.

Modern Restoration and Tourism

In recent years, Nahargarh Fort has been extensively restored and preserved by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the Rajasthan government. The fort has become a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world to witness its historical significance, architectural splendor, and panoramic views of Jaipur city.