Bala Quila, Alwar

Alwar Fort

A true masterpiece of Rajasthani architecture, the majestic Bala Quila is a magnificent fort that crowns a prominent hilltop overlooking Alwar city. Its impressive fortifications are adorned with gracefully carved marble columns and delicate latticed balconies shaped like drooping Bangalter leaves, offering beautiful views of the cityscape below. Its 15 large and 51 small towers are surrounded by 8 enormous citadels and contain 446 loopholes for musketry.

One of the best places to visit in Rajasthan, this fort is amongst the state’s oldest structures. Built by Hasan Khan Mewati in the fifteenth century, it has been under the reign of many dynasties and rulers including the Pathans, Marathas, Jats and Kachwaha Rajputs. Meaning ‘Young Fort’, the massive structure is situated in the Aravalli Ranges over the town of Alwar and spreads over a huge area measuring 5 km from North to South and 1.6 km from East to West. It has six intricately carved gates – Andheri gate, Chand pol, Suraj pol, Kishan pol and Laxman pole. It is believed that the fort embodies the valour and the spirit of the Nikumbh Rajputs and is a great tribute to their heroic past.

Architecture Of Bala Quila

Located amidst the Aravalli ranges, Bala Quila Alwar is one of the most breathtaking monuments in Rajasthan. It was a grand creation of Hasan Khan Mewati and has been ruled by several dynasties including the Mughals, Marathas, and Jats until 1775 when Kachhwaha Rajput King Pratap Singh took it as his own. This giant fort boasts of many interesting structures including Nikumb Mahal Palace, Salim Sagar Pond, Suraj Kund and Jal Mahal among others. Its walls have been crafted with ancient designs and sculptures and showcase a beautiful fusion of Indian and Islamic architectural elements.

The imposing fort spreads over an area of 5 kms from North to South and 1.6 kms from East to West. It has six glorious gates namely Andheri Gate, Suraj Pol (named after Raja Suraj Mal of Bharatpur), Chand Pol, Laxman Pol, Kishan Pol and Jai Pol. The entire fort is surrounded by 15 large and 51 small towers which served as strategic points during wartime. Beyond that the huge complex contains the Government Museum that is a collection that is unique. It includes arms as well as bidri work, ivory and lacquered objects as well as musical instruments as well as stuffed animals. brass and pottery works made in Jaipur, Multan, Bengal and Ceylon miniature paintings, Persian along with Sanskrit manuscripts.

It is said that Raja Pratap Singh himself used to visit this museum during his frequent visits to the fort. The most stunning part about this magnificent fort is its location amidst the picturesque surroundings. The fort is a must-visit place for all history buffs and offers the best views of the city and nearby areas from its watchtowers. Its enchanting architecture will leave you spellbound. Besides, there are numerous other landmarks and places of interest located within the premises like Hope Circus.

History Of Bala Quila

Located amidst the Aravalli ranges, Bala Quila Alwar is one of the most breathtaking monuments in Rajasthan. It was a grand creation of Hasan Khan Mewati and has been ruled by several dynasties including the Mughals, Marathas, and Jats until 1775 when Kachhwaha Rajput King Pratap Singh took it as his own. This giant fort boasts of many interesting structures including Nikumb Mahal Palace, Salim Sagar Pond, Suraj Kund and Jal Mahal among others. Its walls have been crafted with ancient designs and sculptures and showcase a beautiful fusion of Indian and Islamic architectural elements. The imposing fort spreads over an area of 5 kms from North to South and 1.6 kms from East to West.

It has six glorious gates namely Andheri Gate, Suraj Pol (named after Raja Suraj Mal of Bharatpur), Chand Pol, Laxman Pol, Kishan Pol and Jai Pol. The entire fort is surrounded by 15 large and 51 small towers which served as strategic points during wartime. Apart from these, the massive complex also houses the Government Museum which houses a unique collection of arms, bidri work, lacquered and ivory items, musical instruments, stuffed animals, exquisite pottery and brass works from Jaipur, Multan, Bengal and Ceylon, miniature paintings and Persian and Sanskrit manuscripts.

It is said that Raja Pratap Singh himself used to visit this museum during his frequent visits to the fort. The most stunning part about this magnificent fort is its location amidst the picturesque surroundings. The fort is a must-visit place for all history buffs and offers the best views of the city and nearby areas from its watchtowers. Its enchanting architecture will leave you spellbound. Besides, there are numerous other landmarks and places of interest located within the premises like Hope Circus.

Significance Of Bala Quila

Bala Quila is one of the grandest and largest forts in Alwar and stands tall on a stiff cliff atop the Aravalli range. It was built as the guardian of the city by Hasan Khan Mewati, Rajput ruler of Mewat, in the 15th century. The fort spreads over a territory of 5 km from north to south and 1.6 km from east to west. It is crowned by six gates namely Suraj Pol, Chand Pol, Krishna Pol, Laxman Pol and Andheri Gate. Each of these gateways is associated with a legend that speaks about the valor and bravery of Rajput soldiers. The fort has been home to some great warriors and emperors in the history of India. Babur, the first Mughal emperor is known to have spent a night at the fort and also taken away a lot of treasure which he gifted to his son Humayun later on.

Jahangir, the emperor of the Mughal empire also visited the fort and it is believed that he stayed there for three years during his exile period. Each of these visits has left a mark on the fort and thus, it is considered as one of the most important historical landmarks in Rajasthan. Apart from the stunning architecture, the fort also houses some of the beautiful temples and ponds like Nikumbh Mahal, Salim Sagar Pond and Suraj Kund. It also boasts of a stunning view of the city of Alwar and the historic hills of the Aravalli range from where the fort is situated. Bala Quila is the most impressive and massive structure in the town of Alwar, which makes it a must visit tourist attraction for all history buffs. It is indeed a sight to behold and reflects the spirit of the legendary Rajput warriors.

Alwar Fort Surrounding Views

A regal sight to behold, Bala Quila is among the most interesting tourist places to visit in Alwar. The grand fort is adorned with various temples and other structures, which showcase the valour of Rajput warriors. Some of these include Salim Sagar Pond, Jal Mahal and Nikumb Mahal. Its walls are finely crafted with ancient designs and sculptures. Originally constructed by Hasan Khan Mewati, the fort was captured by many dynasties including Jats and Mughals. It is said that Babur, the first Indian Mughal Emperor spent a night in this magnificent palace. The fort is a massive structure and extends over an area of 5 kms north to south. It has a total of 15 large and 51 small towers along with 446 openings for musketry. Each gate in this colossal structure is dedicated to a specific story and is a tribute to the valor of the Rajput soldiers. Those who are awed by the magnificent structure of the fort can go through its various gates including Suraj Pol (named after Raja Suraj Mal from Bharatpur), Chand Pol, Krishna Pol and Laxman Pol. This is a must-visit for all travellers visiting the city of Alwar. While the fort offers an eye-catching view of the city, it also gives a refreshing break from the hectic pace of life. Besides, the fort has some of the best restaurants in town that offer a wide range of mouth-watering dishes to savour. Another interesting attraction in the city is Karni Mata Temple or Rat Temple, a revered Hindu site. It is believed that 25,000 black rats reside in the temple and are worshipped here. It is also famous for its unique architecture which is a blend of Mughal and Rajputana styles.

Places To Visit Near Bala Quila

1. Taal Vriksha

One of the top locations to go to within Alwar, Taal Vriksha is one of the holy spots that holds significant significance to devotees. It is believed that the sage Mandavya created this spot as an ashram of his own, and a myriad of mythological tales have been associated with this location. The sanctuaries and temples in the area are attractive due to their beauty. The Jai Pole is also a one to visit. This palace is a perfect illustration of the beauty of Indo-Islamic architecture. It includes many sculptures that will amaze you.
The building is also home to two adjacent cold and hot water, that are believed to heal various ailments. The temple of Ganga Mata can also be found there and is frequented by those seeking the blessings of her. The sulphur bath at the spring is extremely therapeutic and revitalizes the physical and spiritual body. It’s among the most beautiful places to go for those who want to enjoy some time in peace.

2. Fateh Jang Ka Gumbad

Tomb of Fateh Jang Ka Gumbad is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Alwar. It is dedicated to the memory of a Pathan warrior and is a classic amalgamation of Indo-Islamic designs and Rajputana style of architecture. A large number of tourists visit this monument to admire its unique miniature design. The tomb is surrounded by lush green gardens, making it an attractive spot for sightseeing. The best time to visit this historical monument is between September and March when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing.

3. Sariska National Park

Sariska National Park, located in the Alwar district in Rajasthan, India, spans more than 800 square km of diverse terrain, which includes dry woodlands along with rocky landscapes and grasslands. The park was founded in 1955 and was initially a hunting area for the royals. It gained acclaim because of its successful relocation project. Sariska is now an official Tiger Reserve and houses various wildlife species, including leopards, sambars as well as a wide variety of bird species. The old Kankwari Fort within the park is of historical significance. Safaris are available for visitors to discover the diverse biodiversity and explore Sariska’s natural splendor.

4. Hope Circus

The Hope Circus located in Alwar located near the famous Clock Tower, is a lively hub that captures the spirit of hope. The lively area offers a wide range of activities and entertainment, creating an atmosphere of happiness and excitement. In the background of the timeless beauty of the Clock Tower The Hope Circus becomes a symbol of optimism and resilience and provides a break from the everyday. It’s an area where dreams fly high, resonating the notion that in the midst of Alwar Hope is the most spectacular thing you can see.

4. City Palace

The City Palace in Alwar stands as a majestic testament to the city’s rich history and architectural grandeur. Located at the heart of Alwar, this imposing structure boasts a harmonious blend of Rajput and Mughal styles, reflecting the city’s diverse cultural influences. Constructed in the 18th century by Maharaja Bakhtawar Singh, the palace showcases intricate craftsmanship, ornate balconies, and elegant courtyards. Visitors are transported to a bygone era as they explore the opulent halls, adorned with exquisite paintings and artifacts. The panoramic views from the palace offer a breathtaking glimpse of Alwar’s landscape, making the City Palace a captivating cultural gem.

5. Siliserh Lake

Siliserh Lake, located near Alwar, Rajasthan, is peaceful oasis that is with lush greenery and hills. It was constructed during the year 1845 by Maharaja Vinay Singh, this artificial lake covers 10.5 sq km and it is dependent on streams and rivers from the nearby Aravalli Range. The lake’s picturesque setting is embellished with the Palace of Siliserh along its shores, which adds to its appeal. A boat ride on the tranquil waters is a peaceful escape as the backdrop of Aravalli hills provides a breathtaking panorama. Siliserh Lake is not just a stunning sight but also an important reservoir of fresh water to the area, making it a crucial ecological resource.

6. Moti doongri

Moti Doongri, situated in Jaipur, Rajasthan, is a hill with a rich history that is decorated with the renowned Moti Dungari Ganesh temple. The hill’s name, which translates as “Pearl Hill,” is inspired by its resemblance with the drop of a pearl. The temple, which is dedicated to Lord Ganesha is a well-known place of worship and a historical landmark. Its architecture reflects a blend between Indian along with European styles, and has an unique influence from Scottish castles. The mountain and the temple on top of it provide panoramic views of Jaipur which makes it a peaceful location for pilgrims and tourists alike. Moti Doongri is an emblem of devotion to God and architecture integration of Jaipur, Pink City.

Other attractions include Government Museum, which displays rare artifacts such as writings on palm leaves, ancient royal weapons, Persian and Sanskrit manuscripts, musical instruments, bidri work, stuffed animals, and lacquered sculptures. Located inside the City Palace, this museum is a must-visit for history buffs. It also houses a collection of sandstone paintings, miniatures, and brasswork. It is one of the most amazing places to visit near Bala Quila.

Tips To Visit Bala Quila

• Go during winter months: The best time to visit Bala Quila is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is mild and suitable for outdoor activities.
  
• Comfortable clothing: Wear comfortable and modest attire, despite the historical and cultural significance that the place holds. Shoes that are comfortable are recommended because there may be walking.
  
• Drink Water & Snack: It’s essential to remain hydrated, especially in the summer seasons. Keep a bottle of water and snacks to keep you fully energized.
  
• Photography: Bala Quila offers amazing views. So, bring your camera to capture beautiful landscapes as well as the architecture of the fort.
  
• Be respectful of local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and practices. If you’re planning to visit any of the religious sites in the fort, follow your dress codes and keep an appropriate manner.
  
• Plan Enough Timing: Allocate enough time for your visit to fully explore the fort, and to enjoy the views from the top. If you rush through, you could cause to miss the intricate details and beauty of the fort.
  
• Check Hours of Operation: Verify the opening hours of Bala Quila before planning your trip to ensure you’ll get plenty of time to explore the fort.
  
• Sun Protection: When you visit during warmer months, make sure you have sun protection, such as sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
  
• Be Respectful of Nature: Bala Quila is located in a beautiful area. Respect nature and do not litter. Be responsible in the disposal of trash.

Plan Your Visit To Bala Quila

Location

Bala Quila is situated on the top of Aravali hills.

Timings

Opening hours of Bala Quila are 10:00 am – 4:30 pm.

Entry Fees

20 INR for Indian citizens & 30 INR for vehicles.

How To Reach

• By Air: Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport (JAI)
  Jaipur Airport is approximately 148 kilometers from Alwar.
  Upon reaching Jaipur, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Alwar.
  
• By Train: Alwar is well-connected by trains from major cities in India.
  After reaching Alwar Junction, you can hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or use local transport to reach Bala Quila.
  
• By Road:
  – Bus: Alwar has a bus stand that is connected to various cities in Rajasthan and neighboring states. State-run and private buses operate on these routes.
  
  – Private Vehicles: Alwar is accessible by road, and you can drive or hire a taxi to reach the city.
  Bala Quila is located in Alwar, and you can navigate to the fort once you are in the city.
  
  – Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws and taxis are available in Alwar for local transportation. You can hire them to reach Bala Quila from the railway station, bus stand, or any other part of the city.
  
  – Self-Drive or Rental Cars: You can opt to rent a car for more flexibility in exploring the city and reaching Bala Quila.

Navigation Tips: Local Assistance: Ask locals or your accommodation for the most convenient and updated route to Bala Quila. Google Maps or other navigation apps can be helpful for real-time directions.

Bala Quila ( Alwar Fort) On Map:

Alwar Fort Images