Nahargarh Fort Jaipur is a monumental edifice built by Sawai Madho Singh in the eighteenth century. The fort is situated on Cheel ka Teela (Hill of Eagles) and Nahargarh means “abode of tigers”. Nahargarh fort along with Amer Fort and Jaigarh Fort once formed a strong defense around the city of Jaipur. However, Nahargarh fort was also used as a summer retreat by the Jaipur kings considering that there are several palaces, temples and landscaped gardens within its complex. There is an extended wall at Nahargarh Fort which connects it to Jaigarh Fort.
The Madhavendra Palace is the hotspot attraction at the fort which has an opulent suite for the king and nine suites for his concubines. The Madhavendra palace looks spellbindingly magnificent and the walls of the suites are intricately designed with delicate fresco paintings.
Within the fort lies the famous Nahargarh Biological Park and a zoo that gives tourists a sneak peek into the wilderness of the regions like Asiatic lions and Bengal tigers. Another huge attraction is the Sculpture Park that has astounding pieces of sculpture on display at the Madhavendra Palace. The fort complex even has two restaurants that offer breathtaking views of the city below and serves zesty Indian cuisine.
History of Nahargarh Fort
Constructed in 1734 by Sawai Jai Singh II – the then Maharaja of Jaipur, the fort was initially named Sudarshangarh, and later it was renamed Nahargarh. Though the fort was primarily built for defense purposes, it was never attacked by enemies during its entire history. However, in the 18th century, the fort was used for events like the signing of treaties with Maratha forces. The fort also served as a retreat for the hunting trips of the royal family.
A haunted story about the Nahargarh Fort is that the spirit of a prince Nahar Singh Bhomia rambled around the palace and obstructed the construction work, so whatever was structured during the day used to fall at night. King Sawai Jai Singh believed that the restless spirit of the prince was not letting the construction work be done. Thus, based on the guidance of astrologers and priests, Sawai Jai Singh decided to build a temple dedicated to the price. Also, the king named the fort in the prince’s name to honour him. Later, the construction work of the fort went on smoothly.
Nahargarh Fort – Architecture
Earlier, Nahargarh fort, along with Jaigarh Fort and Amer Fort, formed a strong three-point defense strategy around the city. Located on Cheel ka Teela or Hill of Eagles, the fort represents a perfect example of Indo-European architecture. With grand gates, huge courtyards, and towers, the fort displays the influence of the Rajputana kingdom. The fort houses nine similar suits constructed for each of the nine queens of Sawai Madho Singh. All these suits are connected to each other by corridors and have a kitchen, lobby, bedroom, and other vital sections. The suites are marvellously adorned with Rajput Mughal frescoes showcasing the lifestyle and culture of Rajputs. The names of these suits are Chand Parkash, Jawahar Parkash, Suraj Parkash, Ratan Parkash, Laxmi Parkash, Vasant Parkash, and Lalit Parkash, etc.
The fort also comprises a couple of temples dedicated to the rulers of Jaipur and the prince Nahar Singh Bhomia. Nahargarh Fort in Jaipur also has the prominent architectural structure Diwan-i-Aam – a common hall used by the kings for public meetings to resolve complaints made by common people. The fort also has two-step wells, one inside the complex and another one within the ramparts. A distinctive trait of these wells is they are designed asymmetrically, unlike other step wells in India.
Jaipur Tourism the capital of Rajasthan state, is often addressed as Pink City and is a part of the Popular Golden Triangle Tour of India. Vivacity and grandeur are two words that are very close to defining Jaipur. Forts and palaces built by erstwhile rulers of the area are a testimony of their power and their architectural intellect. Nooks and streets sparkle with traditional and vivid handloom, costume, jewelry and other Knicks and knacks. Owing to its splendor, Jaipur has emerged as a hotspot for wedding destination,/ in India and some of India’s best luxury and heritage hotels.