Stepping into the palace
The outstanding architecture of the palace is a fusion of Mughal and Rajputana styles. As one enters, the imposing gates adorned with intricate carvings hint at the opulence waiting for the travellers inside. The palace consists of marble pavilions with bases made of lotus flower in the large central courtyard. The palace has many entries and they are named as Jai Pol, Suraj Pol, Laxman Pol, Chand Pol, Kishan Pol and Andheri Gate. Beyond the gates, lies an open ground with Krishna temples on all four sides. The City Palace has 15 impressive towers and 51 smaller towers overlooking the mountain slopes. The walls and ceilings are embellished with marvellous work of murals and mirror work.
The Salim Sagar Tank, the Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors), the Diwan-e-Aam (Hall of Public audience), and the Diwan-e-Khas (private hall reserved for royal family members) are some of the top attractions at the City Palace Alwar. As you wander through the halls of the palace, you are transported back in time of the kings and queens where luxury knew no bounds.
From the palace's elevated vantage points, one can soak in panoramic views of Alwar city and beyond, witness the bustling markets and catch a glimpse of the Sariska Tiger Reserve in the distance—a reminder of the region's natural beauty.
At present, the ground floor of the fort is used as government office while the other floors have been converted into an historic museum known as the Government museum. It houses various treasured items of the Royals like armours, classic furniture collected over the years and manuscripts.
Special information
In Alwar City Palace, photography is permitted. With its majestic interiors as well as exteriors, it is indeed a photographers' delight. However, there are particular sections of this monument where photography is restricted. Therefore it is a good idea to consult with the authorities or tour guides before capturing those wonderful photographs. Visitors are not expected to touch any displays in order to protect the quality of the palace and its antiques. For the same reason entrance to some areas may be restricted as well.
Another interesting fact for the "destination event" lovers is that Alwar City Palace has locations for holding various types of gatherings like religious and social ceremonies, cultural events etc. Stunning architecture adds a regal touch to the ceremonies.
For those tingling taste buds Alwar has a lot 'on a platter'. A number of neighbourhood restaurants and eateries offer Rajasthani food which the visitors relish. Here delicious ‘dal baati churma’ and tantalising ‘laal maas’ are hot favourites with the tourists.
