Neemrana

Located in the Delhi-Jaipur highway between Behror and Shahjahanpur, Neemrana is a quaint little town full of hills, greenery, and a royal environment to take you back to the age of kings and queens. This ancient yet beautiful town in Alwar, Rajasthan has a few but mesmerizing attractions that offer just what is needed for a wholesome and peaceful weekend vacation. It is famous for its Neemrana Fort Palace built in 1464 AD, the place from where Rajput Maharaj Prithvi Raj Chauhan III reigned. The fort has now been converted into a luxury heritage resort where a one day stay is an experience in itself which is an amalgam of history and modernity. Due to its proximity from Delhi, Neemrana offers a peaceful and enchanting weekend getaway full of vibrant colors, heritage, culture, and celebrations surrounded by the beauty of the nature. Each alley and walls of the forts and old houses shout out loud the distinct heritage story associated with the town and the state. Neemrana is visited by tourists from across the world for its attractions such as Chand Baori which is one of the world’s largest stepwells along with other attractions that attract local tourists such as the forts, national park and activities like boating, zip-lining, and fishing.

Like many cities and towns in Rajasthan, Neemrana also has a history of kings and kingdoms with several forts and palaces to prove the existence of its rich culture and history. Not just this, the town is also filled with lush green beauty and vibrant flora and fauna that also captivates the visitors. Some of the best things to do and places to visit in Neemrana are:

• Sariska National Park – It is one of the most famous national parks in Rajasthan and in India and is also a Tiger Reserve. Initially a hunting ground for the Rajput monarchs, the national park is quite famous for Bengal Tigers and several other vibrant fauna species that you can witness in their natural habitat.
• Bala Qila – Also known as Alwar Fort, Bala Qila is nestled on a hill in Aravalli Range and was constructed in the 15th century by Hasan Khan Mewati. The fort has been under the rule of several dynasties including Marathas, Yadavas, and the Kachwaha Rajputs and offers a full view of the cityscape.
• Chand Baori – Located in the village of Abhaneri, a 1000-year-old underground stepwell is a must-see sight in Neemrana town. It is one of the largest stepwells in the world with 3500 narrow steps aligned in perfect proportions and geometrical pattern which attracts travelers from around the globe.
• Vinay Vilas Mahal – A specimen of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture, Vinay Vilas Mahal was built in 1793 AD and is also known as the City Palace. The major portion of this breathtaking palace has been turned into a museum where several historical artifacts and relics are displayed for visitors to see.
• Siliserh Lake – A few kilometres from Alwar, Siliserh Lake was established by Maharaja Vinay Singh in 1845 for supplying a source of water for the residents. The lake is a serene place to spend time where you can enjoy boating, fishing, and bird watching.
• Zip-lining – At the Neemrana Fort Palace, enjoy the thrill of riding the wind with the zip-lining activity. The 1250m high zip tour offers a bird’s eye view of the Aravalli mountain ranges in a fascinating way and comprises of 5 zip lines.
• Fort of Kesroli – Now transformed to a heritage hotel, it is one of the oldest heritage hotel sites in India constructed in the 14th century and a stay at this hotel or even a day tour while enjoying the authentic Rajasthani cuisine is a must-have in your itinerary.

• Neemrana Fort Palace – It is a 553-year-old palace which has now been turned into a posh resort and is very popular among tourists. It offers high-end amenities including lavish rooms, on-site restaurant, complementary breakfast, gardens, outdoor pools, gym, and a spa.
• Hill Fort, Kesroli – This is one of the oldest heritage hotel sites in India and is another 14th century fort which is turned into a luxury property. It offers plush suits, a restaurant/bar, outdoor pool, a spa, and a garden.
• The Grand Hira Resort – The resort represents sheer opulence in a serene setup. Visit the resort to experience comfortable stay, scrumptious food, modern amenities, and excellent hospitality with a royal treatment.
• Ramada Resort, Neemrana – Situated off Delhi-Jaipur highway, this is one of the best stays in Neemrana. The resort offers well-maintained rooms, complimentary breakfast, in-house restaurant, terrace grill, 24-hour coffee shop, bars, pool, spa, gym, and games room among others.

Being located in Rajasthan, Neemrana has predominantly North Indian colorful, spicy and vibrant dishes. Rajasthan is known for its spicy and bright red, brown-colored dishes and fried food as snacks or street food. Many Rajasthani families abstain from eating meat, not only due to the costs incurred but also due to religious influence. But you can still get delicious non-veg dishes in restaurants and hotels with authentic Rajasthani spices. Some of the most common dishes in Neemrana are:

• Dal-Bato Churma
• Mirchi Bada
• Pyaaj Kachori
• Papad and Achaar
• Lal Maas
• Gatta Curry
• Ker Sangria

• Al-Lazeez Restaurant – Serves vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes including biryani, kebabs, lalmaas, etc. in a chic modern interior and with a friendly staff.
• Prem Pavitra Bhojnalaya – A pure vegetarian restaurant with authentic North Indian dishes, peaceful and relaxed atmosphere, clean place, and economical prices.
• Foji Raj Dhaba – It is a casual eatery which serves authentic Rajasthani meal like a href="/food/dal-baati-churma">dal bati churma, ker sangria, and gatte ki sabji along with other Indian specialties at reasonable prices.
• Forestra – Flaunting a jungle theme, this restaurant has indoor cave like and an outdoor setting and offers a variety of cuisines including Chinese, North Indian, South Indian, Asian, and Italian.
• Bikanerwala – A spacious restaurant on highway with a lush green yard and fresh economical vegetarian food to delight in.
• Neemrana Fort Palace – Located in the heritage hotel, the restaurant offers global cuisines along with authentic Rajasthani cuisines in a royal setting.

Neemrana can be visited all year round but the best time to visit the town is from November to February during the winter months. The weather is pleasant during this time and the temperature ranges between 5 to 27 degrees Celsius for a perfect day out.

• By Air: You can board a flight to Jaipur or Delhi airport whichever is near to you. Neemrana is in Delhi-Jaipur highway, and you can hire a cab to reach there.
• By Road: You can get a bus from Delhi and other neighboring cities to Neemrana which is located between Behror and Shahjahanpur in the Delhi-Jaipur highway. You can also take your own vehicle to enjoy the scenic views.
• By Train: Rewari is the nearest railway station at about 38km from the fort. The major railway station near to Neemrana is in Delhi.