Things to do in Alwar, a historic city in Rajasthan, offers a perfect blend of royal heritage, natural beauty, and adventure. Start your journey at the Alwar City Palace, an architectural gem with an in-house museum showcasing royal artifacts. Visit the serene Siliserh Lake, ideal for boating and scenic relaxation. For wildlife lovers, the Sariska Tiger Reserve promises thrilling safaris with chances to spot tigers, leopards, and deer.
Step into mystery at the famous Bhangarh Fort, known as India’s most haunted site. Don’t miss the Bala Quila Fort, offering panoramic city views and a taste of Alwar’s royal past. Moosi Maharani ki Chhatri is another architectural marvel worth exploring.
Nature enthusiasts can enjoy Garbhaji Waterfalls during monsoon and visit the peaceful Vijay Mandir Palace. Shop for handicrafts and taste the famous Alwar Kalakand in the bustling local bazaars. With its charm and diversity, Alwar is a delightful weekend getaway from Delhi or Jaipur.
Alwar Fort (Bala Quila)
Bala Quila, also known as Alwar Fort, is a majestic hill fort that stands proudly above the city of Alwar in Rajasthan. Perched on a steep cliff in the Aravalli Hills, the fort rises to a height of around 1000 feet and stretches over 5 kilometers in length. Originally built in the 15th century by Hasan Khan Mewati, the fort has witnessed the rule of the Mughals, Jats, and Rajputs, each leaving their architectural imprints.
The fort features six grand gates—Chand Pol, Suraj Pol, Jai Pol, Kishan Pol, Andheri Gate, and Laxman Pol—along with watchtowers, temples, and majestic bastions. From its ramparts, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of Alwar city and the surrounding valleys.
Due to its location within a forested area, visiting Bala Quila requires prior permission from the forest department. The fort is a paradise for history lovers, trekkers, and photographers, offering a serene yet majestic glimpse into Rajasthan’s royal past.
Bhangarh Fort
Bhangarh Fort, located in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, is one of the most intriguing historical sites in India, often called the “most haunted fort in the country.” Built in the 17th century by Raja Madho Singh, the fort once thrived with markets, temples, and royal residences. Surrounded by the Aravalli Hills and located near the Sariska Tiger Reserve, it’s a stunning blend of nature and history.
The fort is shrouded in legends—most famously, a tale of a tantric who cursed the city after being spurned by the princess of Bhangarh. Since then, locals believe the place to be haunted. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) even prohibits visitors from entering the fort after sunset and before sunrise, Things to do in Alwar.
Despite the eerie stories, Bhangarh is a favorite among history buffs, photographers, and curious travelers. The ruins, temples, and majestic gates offer a glimpse into its glorious past. It’s a thrilling day trip from Alwar or Jaipur, combining mystery, mythology, and Mughal-Rajput architecture.
Alwar City Palace (Vinay Villas Palace)
Alwar City Palace, also known as Vinay Vilas Palace, is a stunning architectural marvel nestled at the foothills of the Aravalli Range in Alwar, Rajasthan. Built in the late 18th century by Maharaja Bakhtawar Singh, the palace beautifully blends Rajput and Mughal architectural styles, featuring intricately carved balconies, graceful arches, and elegant courtyards.
The palace complex houses the Vinay Vilas Mahal Museum, which showcases a rich collection of royal memorabilia, including ancient manuscripts, armor, weapons, miniature paintings, and rare artifacts that reflect the grandeur of Alwar’s princely past. The interiors boast magnificent marble floors, ornate ceilings, and beautifully decorated halls.
Set beside the tranquil Sagar Lake and flanked by the picturesque Moosi Maharani ki Chhatri, the palace offers a serene and culturally immersive experience. Though parts of the palace now function as government offices, its historic charm and regal aura make it a must-visit attraction for history buffs and architecture lovers exploring Things to do in Alwar.
Sariska Tiger Reserve
Sariska Tiger Reserve, located in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, is a popular wildlife sanctuary nestled in the Aravalli hills. Spread across 880 square kilometers, it was declared a tiger reserve in 1978 under Project Tiger. The reserve is home to Bengal tigers, leopards, jackals, hyenas, wild boars, nilgai, sambar deer, and more than 200 species of birds, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
The landscape is a blend of dry deciduous forests, rocky hills, and grasslands. Safari rides are conducted in jeeps and canters, available in morning and evening slots. Visitors can also explore the ancient Pandupol Hanuman Temple, Kankwari Fort, and Bhangarh Fort, all located within or near the reserve.
Sariska is open from October to June, with the best tiger sightings from March to May. It’s a fantastic weekend getaway, just 200 km from Delhi and around 120 km from Jaipur, offering a thrilling escape into the wild Things to do in Alwar.
Moosi Maharani ki Chhatri
Moosi Maharani ki Chhatri is a stunning cenotaph located near the Alwar City Palace, built in memory of Maharaja Bakhtawar Singh and his queen, Rani Moosi. Constructed in 1815 AD, this exquisite structure reflects the perfect blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. Made of red sandstone and white marble, the chhatri is known for its elegant domes, intricate carvings, and delicate pillared pavilions.
According to legend, Rani Moosi performed sati (self-immolation) on her husband’s funeral pyre, a practice once considered a symbol of devotion. The chhatri was erected to honor her loyalty and sacrifice. Inside, the walls are adorned with mythological paintings and frescoes depicting scenes from Hindu epics, adding spiritual and artistic Things to do in Alwar.
The chhatri overlooks a small water tank, enhancing its peaceful and reflective ambiance. It is a popular spot for photographers and history lovers, offering a quiet break from the bustling city and a deeper glimpse into Rajasthan’s royal legacy.
Siliserh Lake
Siliserh Lake is a tranquil, scenic retreat located about 13 km from Alwar city in Rajasthan. Built in 1845 by Maharaja Vinay Singh for his queen, the lake spans over 7 square kilometers and is surrounded by the Aravalli hills, creating a picturesque setting perfect for relaxation and photography.
At the heart of this serene location is the Siliserh Lake Palace, once a royal hunting lodge and now a heritage hotel offering breathtaking views of the lake. Visitors can enjoy boating on the calm waters or simply relax by the shore, watching the sunset paint the skies.
Siliserh is also a great spot for picnics, birdwatching, and light exploration. During the monsoon, the surroundings turn lush green, adding to its charm. It’s less crowded compared to other tourist spots, making it ideal for couples, families, or solo travelers seeking peace, Things to do in Alwar.
Its proximity to Sariska Tiger Reserve makes it a great stopover for wildlife and nature enthusiasts.
