Nahargarh Fort was originally built to help defend nearby Amber Fort, though it was later expanded under Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II and Sawai Madho Singh II. Highlights include a palace with nine apartments (one for each of Ram Singh’s nine wives), many of which contain original frescoes, and the spectacular views. The fort also features an underground system of rainwater harvesting tanks, which allegedly could hold enough water to keep the fort going for a couple of years.
Many tours of Jaipur and the Golden Triangle stop here. Composite tickets that allow access to a number of Jaipur sights are accepted here, but are sold only at Amber (Amer) Fort, Albert Hall, the Hawa Mahal, and Jantar Mantar.
Nahargarh is great for those with an interest in military history.
The fort features a small café serving snacks and meals at reasonable prices.
Wear comfortable footwear, as the ground here can be uneven in spots.
If visiting in the middle of the day, be sure to wear sun protection.
Nahargarh is located just outside of Jaipur’s Pink City area, about a 20-minute drive from the City Palace, the Hawa Mahal, and Jantar Mantar. The fort is also directly connected to Jaigarh (also a 20-minute drive) via a back road. Getting to the fort is arduous for travelers coming on foot from the base of the hill—it’s easiest to hire a taxi or visit as part of an organized sightseeing tour. Delhi is a 5-hour drive away or between 4.5 and six hours by train.
Nahargarh is open from 10am daily throughout the year, though temperatures are at their most pleasant during the cooler (but still warm) winter months. Visit around sunset to truly appreciate the fort’s great views and light for photography.
According to local legend, the fort stands on land that was once haunted by a prince named Nahar Singh Bhomia. The ghost kept causing problems during the construction of the fort, and he agreed to stop causing a ruckus only if the fort was named after him; a temple in his honor sits within the fort to this day.