Alwar is popularly known as the “Tiger Gate” of Rajasthan since it is home to the Sariska Tiger Reserve. Another reason could also be attributed its vanguard status, which never gave in to foreign invasions. Finally, it was only Sultan Balban who was able to conquer the mighty Alwar around 1270 AD. Eventually, around 1771, Maharaja Pratap Singh regained the power over Alwar from the long-reigning Muslims and the city was back in the hands of the Rajputs.

Alwar has a scenic beauty to it since it is located in the spectacular Aravalli hills, with a natural environment that is rich in heritage and history. It is home to many thick forests nestled in deep valleys, lakes, and a huge variety of birds and animals.

This gigantic fort with a perimeter that stretches five km from north to south and 1.6 km from east to west is situated at a height and distance of 304 meters from the city of Alwar. The fort comprises of 15 big and 51 small towers and 446 openings that are surrounded by eight huge towers. Some of its numerous gates include Jai pole, Suraj pole, Laxman Pole, Chand Pole, Kishan Pole, and Andheri Gate. The fort also houses some of the remains of Jal Mahal, Nikumbh Mahal, Suraj Kund, and other temples.

The palace Museum has an impressive collection of artifact and other exhibits from the personal assets of the Maharajas of Alwar. It also houses rare manuscripts such as an illustrated Mahabharata on a 200 feet long scroll, and another that depicts the Mughal Emperor Babur’s life. The museum also exhibits some fine paintings and miniatures and swords of Sultan Muhammad Ghori, Emperor Akbar, and Aurangzeb.

Although the palace has been converted into a government and administrative building, one cannot miss the indications of lavish lifestyles and the characteristic Mughal-Rajput architecture such as marble pillars and pavilions with lotus shaped bases.

These kiosks and ceilings are representative of an excellent example of Indo-Islamic architecture. Adorned with illustrated gold-leaf paintings and beautiful arches, these Chhatri’s (umbrellas) are located behind the City Palace and along an artificial lake built in 1815 AD by Maharaja Vinay Singh. One of these kiosks is popularly called Moosi Maharani ki Chhatri.

Located at a distance of six miles from Alwar, stands the royal home of Maharaja Jai Singh. Built in 1918, the Vijay Mandir Palace is a great example and window into the lavish lifestyles led by royalties of the past. The premises house a small lake with a variety of fish, is a regular destination for migratory birds, and home to some waterfowls as well. One of the unique features of Vijay Mandir is that it was built along the lines of a ship.

• Siliserh Lake Palace Hotel is a popular picnic spot among wooded hills and beautiful chhatris (umbrellas) laid out on the embankment of a lake. Visit the magnificent royal palace and hunting lodge which has not been converted as a hotel. One can also indulge in activities such as boating and sailing and take some lovely pictures.
• Visit the Sariska Tiger Reserve established under the Project Tiger. Some of the animals that live in these dry, deciduous forests are tigers, sambhars, nilgai, chital (axis deer), the four horned antelope, and wild boars.

The Hill Fort, Hotel Aravalli, Sariska Place Hotel, Nimrana Palace