As you approach Alwar, you'll be captivated by verdant landscapes dotted with countless lakes and water bodies. An emerging tourist destination, Alwar invites you to unplug for an escape amid the Aravalli hills, the Sariska park, and a wealth of historical sites.

History

Alwar, a city in Rajasthan located approximately 160 km from Delhi and 150 km north of Jaipur, boasts a rich past stretching back to around 1500 BCE. The Mahabharata mentions this city as the kingdom of Matsya, one of the sites where the Pandavas sought refuge during their exile. The city remains a privileged stop for both domestic and international tourists due to its proximity to the Sariska tiger reserve.

Once known as Mewat, Alwar was long a Rajput state before falling under the control of the Delhi sultans during the 12th and 13th centuries. Later, in 1771, the city was reclaimed by Maharaja Pratap Singh. The lord of the Kachhwaha Rajput clan established his own sovereignty here.

Alwar built its reputation around art and culture during the reign of Maharaja Pratap Singh. During the 18th century, amid the Maratha invasion, he strategically displaced the Jats of Bharatpur to the east and the rulers of Jaipur to the south—a tactic that proved victorious. Beyond this, Alwar was among the first Rajput states to join the British Empire, which maintained control until India's independence.

Today

Comfortably nestled in the heart of the Aravalli, at the crossroads of Rajasthan's tourist circuits, Alwar makes for a perfect weekend getaway. Neighbouring sparsely populated valleys and open-air lakes, this city will fully satisfy your desire for escape. Within the city, you'll find the typical charm of Rajasthan's tourist destinations—from the warmth of local hospitality to rich historical and cultural heritage, and monuments from another era.

With its numerous forts, palaces and cenotaphs, Alwar promises to astound architecture enthusiasts. Perched 300 metres above the city on a hilltop, Alwar Fort stands as the must-see monument on any circuit through the region. The structure was built by Hasan Khan Mewati during the 16th century. After housing several rulers, the fort was eventually annexed by the Kachhwaha Rajputs in the 18th century.

Among other notable structures, Nikumbha Mahal palace stands out with its latticed balconies, while Vinay Vilas Mahal, erected by Maharaja Bakhtawar Singh, blends Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. The latter houses several period masterpieces, including authentic Rajput and Mughal paintings, weapons once belonging to Akbar and Aurangzeb, and stone sculptures dating to the 11th century. Beyond these edifices, the cenotaph Rani Mooski ki Chhatri perfectly reflects the region's architectural prowess in ages past. Dedicated to the wife of Maharaja Bakhtawar Singh, this royal monument opens onto magnificently carved interiors, adorned with gold-leaf paintings and splendid floral motifs.

Alwar also contains impressive Indo-Islamic structures, notably the Fateh Jung tomb comprising five storeys.

Beyond its architectural heritage, Alwar is renowned for its exquisite gastronomy, particularly for Kalakand, a world-famous dessert considered the local milk cake. You'll also find various wellness centres offering the benefits of Ayurvedic massages and treatments. These therapies will certainly revitalise you upon your return from a trek in the Aravalli hills or the Sariska park.

Climate

Alwar experiences a desert-type climate. Throughout the year, rain rarely falls on the city. According to the Köppen-Geiger classification, Alwar's climate corresponds to the BWh type. The average annual temperature stands at 23.7°C. Average annual precipitation is estimated at 105 mm.

The nearest airport services to Alwar are located in Delhi (143 km) and Jaipur (150 km). However, a new airport has recently opened in Kotkasim, approximately 60 km from Alwar.

Regarding rail connectivity, Alwar lies on the railway route linking Delhi to Jaipur. The city is thus connected to Mumbai, Jodhpur, Chandigarh, Ajmer and other major tourist destinations across the Indian subcontinent.

Beyond this, an extensive road network connects Alwar to major cities in Rajasthan and neighbouring states. The city is served by, among others, the six-lane Gurgaon-Sohna-Alwar highway departing from Delhi.

Various transport options are available in Alwar. For short distances, opt for rickshaws offering economical fares whilst allowing you to enjoy the fresh country air. If comfort is your priority, taxis provide a good alternative. Otherwise, hiring a car with driver represents the best option for excursions to surrounding areas.

What to Do in Alwar?

• Marvel at the city's architectural monuments
• Savour the region's culinary specialities, including Kalakand
• Revitalise yourself with an Ayurvedic massage
• Embark on trekking adventures in the Aravalli hills
• Escape into pristine nature with a trip to the Sariska reserve, and more