Nagaur Fort, also known as Ahhichatragarh Fort, is a historical and architectural marvel in Nagaur, India. It is one of the finest examples of Rajput-Mughal architecture, which reflects the diversity and harmony of Indian culture. The fort was built in the early 12th century by the Nagavanshi Kshatriya rulers and later modified by the Mughal emperors Shah Jahan and Akbar. The fort witnessed many battles and sieges in the past centuries and has a rich heritage and legacy. Visit during One Day Nagaur Local Sightseeing By Private Cab
The fort covers an area of 36 acres and has high walls, spacious courtyards, beautiful gardens, elegant palaces, colorful fountains, magnificent temples and a museum. The fort also hosts the World Sacred Spirit Festival every year, which showcases the musical and spiritual traditions of India and the world.
Overview of Nagaur Fort
Nagaur Fort is one of the most impressive and well-preserved forts in Rajasthan. It is also known as Ahhichatragarh Fort, which means “the fort of the hooded cobra” in Sanskrit. The fort was originally founded by the Nagavanshi Kshatriya dynasty, who claimed to be the descendants of the mythical serpent king Naga. The fort was later expanded and renovated by the Mughal emperors Shah Jahan and Akbar, who added their own style and features to the fort.
The fort has a unique blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture, which can be seen in its red sandstone spires, domes, arches, minarets and carvings. The fort has three main entrances: the Sireh Pol (the main gate), the Beech Ka Pol (the middle gate) and the Kacheri Pol (the court gate). The fort has several structures inside its premises, such as:
- Akbari Mahal: A palace built by Akbar for his wife Harkha Bai (also known as Jodha Bai), who was a princess of Nagaur. The palace has a large hall with a marble throne and a fountain.
- Deepak Mahal: A palace built by Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, who was also buried here before being moved to the Taj Mahal. The palace has a splendid hall with mirror work and paintings.
- Hadi Rani Mahal: A palace named after a brave Rajput queen who sacrificed her life for her husband’s honor. The palace has a beautiful hall with floral motifs and paintings.
- Amar Singh Mahal: A palace named after a Rajput king who fought against Aurangzeb. The palace has a spacious hall with frescoes and paintings.
- Sheesh Mahal: A palace with exquisite mirror work and glass paintings.
- Abha Mahal: A palace with a water tank and a garden.
- Rani Mahal: A palace with a museum that displays weapons, armors, paintings, manuscripts and other artifacts from the fort’s history.
- Ganesh Temple: A temple dedicated to the elephant-headed god Ganesh, who is considered to be the remover of obstacles.
- Shiva Temple: A temple dedicated to the god Shiva, who is considered to be the destroyer of evil.
- Jain Temple: A temple dedicated to the Jain Tirthankaras (enlightened beings), who are revered for their non-violence and compassion.
The fort also has a sound and light show every evening that narrates the history and legends of the fort.
Location of Nagaur Fort
Nagaur Fort is located in Nagaur city, which is about 135 km north-west of Jaipur city in Rajasthan state. Nagaur city is one of the oldest cities in India and has a rich history and culture. It is also known as “the cattle capital of India” for its famous cattle fair that attracts thousands of traders and tourists every year.
Timing/Entry Fees Nagaur Fort
Nagaur Fort is open for visitors every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The entry fee for visiting the fort is Rs. 50 for Indian nationals and Rs. 200 for foreign nationals. The entry fee for visiting the museum is Rs. 10 for Indian nationals and Rs. 50 for foreign nationals. The entry fee for visiting the sound and light show is Rs. 100 for Indian nationals and Rs. 200 for foreign nationals.
How to Reach Nagaur Fort
The nearest airport to Nagaur Fort is Jaipur International Airport, which is about 150 km away from Nagaur city. From there, one can take a taxi or a bus to reach Nagaur city. The nearest railway station to Nagaur Fort is Nagaur Railway Station, which is about 2 km away from the fort.
From there, one can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the fort. There are also regular buses available from Jaipur, Ajmer, Jodhpur and other cities to Nagaur city. Alternatively, one can also drive to Nagaur city by taking the National Highway 65 or 89.
Things to Do/Must See Nagaur Fort
Apart from visiting the Nagaur Fort, there are many other things to do and see in Nagaur city. Some of them are:
- Visit the Nagaur Cattle Fair, which is held in January-February every year. It is one of the largest and most colorful cattle fairs in India, where thousands of camels, horses, cows, bulls and other animals are traded and exhibited. The fair also features cultural events, competitions, folk dances, music and handicrafts.
- Visit the Tarkeen Dargah, which is a shrine of a Sufi saint named Khwaja Hamiduddin Nagauri. It is one of the most revered and visited shrines in Rajasthan, where devotees come to seek blessings and miracles.
- Visit the Ladnun Jain Temple, which is a temple of the Digambara sect of Jainism. It is one of the most beautiful and ancient Jain temples in Rajasthan, which has exquisite carvings and paintings.
- Visit the Saiji ka Tanka, which is a memorial of a saint named Saiji Maharaj. It is a place of peace and tranquility, where devotees come to meditate and pray.
- Visit the Nagaur Fort Museum, which is a museum that displays weapons, armors, paintings, manuscripts and other artifacts from the fort’s history.
- Enjoy the sound and light show at the Nagaur Fort, which is a show that narrates the history and legends of the fort with music and lights.
Significance of Nagaur Fort
Nagaur Fort is significant for many reasons. Some of them are:
- It is one of the finest examples of Rajput-Mughal architecture, which reflects the diversity and harmony of Indian culture. The fort has a unique blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture, which can be seen in its red sandstone spires, domes, arches, minarets and carvings.
- It is also one of the most important historical sites in Rajasthan, which witnessed many battles and sieges in the past centuries. The fort has a rich heritage and legacy, which can be seen in its palaces, temples, gardens and museum.
- It is also one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rajasthan, which attracts thousands of visitors every year. The fort offers a glimpse into the glorious past of Rajasthan, as well as a scenic view of the present-day Nagaur city.
FAQ’s
Q: Why is Nagaur Fort called Ahhichatragarh Fort?
A: Nagaur Fort is called Ahhichatragarh Fort because it means “the fort of the hooded cobra” in Sanskrit. The fort was originally founded by the Nagavanshi Kshatriya dynasty, who claimed to be the descendants of the mythical serpent king Naga.
Q: What is the best time to visit Nagaur Fort?
A: The best time to visit Nagaur Fort is during the winter season from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable. The fort also hosts the World Sacred Spirit Festival in February every year, which showcases the musical and spiritual traditions of India and the world.
Q: What are the rules and regulations for visiting Nagaur Fort?
A: The rules and regulations for visiting Nagaur Fort are:
One has to buy a ticket before entering the fort.
One has to follow the instructions of the staff and security personnel.
One has to dress modestly and respectfully, covering their shoulders and knees.
One has to refrain from smoking, drinking or eating inside the fort.
One has to refrain from taking photographs or videos inside the fort.
Conclusion
Nagaur Fort is a historical and architectural marvel in Rajasthan that attracts thousands of visitors every year. It is one of the finest examples of Rajput-Mughal architecture, which reflects the diversity and harmony of Indian culture. It is also one of the most important historical sites in Rajasthan, which witnessed many battles and sieges in the past centuries. It is also one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rajastha
