Tijara Fort-Palace

In 1835, Maharaja Balwant Singh decided to build a grand Fort-Palace in Tijara, naming it after his mother, Moosi Maharani. Top architects and masons from Kabul and Mughal Delhi were appointed to make it perfect. The construction of the Tijara Fort-Palace, particularly its massive double pillars, required elephants to transport them uphill since there were no proper roads back then.

The British, who by then had already established control over much of Rajputana through treaties around 1818, actually encouraged the division of Alwar. It’s because of that Balwant Singh could take a portion of the state’s treasury to fund these ambitious constructions at Tijara. Balwant Singh’s untimely death in 1845 left the fort unfinished for a long time. It wasn’t until Neemrana Hotels stepped in that restoration began, turning it into the heritage hotel we know today.

After his death, all the wealth, weapons, and assets from Tijara went back to Alwar State. Finally, in January 2016, Tijara reopened to visitors after extensive restoration by Neemrana Hotels. The terraced hanging gardens and raised ramparts now allow everyone to experience this unfinished yet remarkable example of Rajput-Afghan architecture. The hotel’s dedication to preserving its heritage was recognized with the Yatra Customer Choice Award for Best Heritage Hotel, 2021.

Today, Tijara Fort-Palace is a favorite spot for creatives. Its heritage charm, expansive courtyards, terraces, and panoramic views make it a stunning backdrop for shoots. Recent projects here include King X Nick Jonas – Maan Meri Jaan (2023), Ms. Nupur Kanoi’s fashion shoot (2023), and Tere Mere (2023).

The palace is built in a distinctive Rajput-Afghan style, with touches of early colonial influence. Back in the day, they brought in some of the best architects and masons from Kabul and Mughal Delhi to work on it, and you can still see their craftsmanship in every corner. There are three main structures: the Mardana Mahal for the royal men, the Rani Mahal for the maharanis, and a pleasure palace perched on the edge of a plateau overlooking the Hawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds.

When Tijara reopened in 2016 after restoration by Neemrana Hotels, they added terraced hanging gardens and raised some of the tall ramparts, bringing the fort back to life. The Rani Mahal now has 22 suites and rooms, each named after India’s leading lady painters who’ve left their mark on the interiors. The Mardana Mahal has 56 rooms, while the Deewar Mahal and Top Mahal together have 8 rooms, and the Khajoor Mahal has 15 rooms. One of Tijara’s most intriguing features is the Pataal Kund, a sunken pool where you can swim in cool summer shade. There’s even an underground auditorium below the fountain garden.

Khajur Mahal Restaurant

At Tijara Fort-Palace, Khajur Mahal is the finest dining spot in Alwar. Guests can enjoy the bold, rich flavors of Rajasthan alongside classic international dishes. The views are spectacular: wherever you sit, the Aravalli hills stretch across the horizon. During winters, indoor buffets transform into outdoor gala dinners on weekends, under a sky full of stars. Every detail of Khajur Mahal has been carefully designed: handcrafted floors, vibrant upholstery, and custom cutlery

Neemrana Hotels has also introduced a farm-to-table approach. The gardens feature a chicken coop, providing free-range, organic eggs for breakfast, prepared exactly to preference. These eggs offer higher omega-3s, more vitamins A and E, and are free of antibiotics and hormones, making for a wholesome, nutrient-rich start to the day.

Marigold Bar

The Marigold Bar sits at the heart of the Mardana-Zenana-Hawa Mahal complex, among the hanging gardens. Designed by master artisans from Srinagar, Jaipur, Bikaner, and Jodhpur, the bar draws inspiration from the saffron flower, symbolizing celebration and auspicious occasions. The bar offers views of frangipani, bougainvillea, palms, and the distant Aravallis. Guests can enjoy a Gainda Cool, Nagina Bam Bam, or shots of vodka and tequila while taking in the serene, historic ambience of the fort.

Tijara Fort-Palace is a great venue for weddings. You can book the whole place or just part of it. The courtyards, terraces, and hanging gardens give you amazing views of mustard fields and the countryside. The terraced gardens are perfect for tents, the Chattis-dari pavilion with 36 doors works for ceremonies, and the sunken auditorium seats over 200 people. There are also two levels near the pool that make great spots for haldi or mehendi ceremonies.

The Rani Mahal offers overnight stays for 55 to 60 guests, and the Mardana Mahal can house 150. guests You can have flowers falling, fireworks in the sky, dancers, performers, and feasts with authentic Rajasthani and North Indian food at the Hawa Mahal. They also help in customising thoughtful ideas for your big day, be it decor or food.

One cool feature is a wedding spa station, usually set up during the Mehendi or Sangeet. Guests can get a quick 10–15 minute hand or foot massage. There’s no limit on how many can use it during the scheduled time. Two spa stations for five hours cost Rs. 40,000 (USD 450), giving everyone a chance to relax during the celebrations.

They also organize folk dances, music performances, and cultural events within the palace. For some indoor fun, there’s a games room with billiards, table tennis, badminton, and the concierge can help you discover nearby attractions. A short drive leads you to Bhangarh, the ruins of a medieval town with palaces and bazaars. Wildlife lovers will enjoy Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary, about 55 kilometers from the fort.

History and architecture enthusiasts will find plenty to admire in the forts and palaces nearby. The City Palace in Alwar combines Rajput and Mughal architecture, with an artificial lake, temples, and lush gardens, as well as a museum housing rare manuscripts, paintings, and antique weaponry. Moosi Maharani Ki Chhatri is a stunning cenotaph built in Indo-Islamic style, with domes, columned pavilions, and intricate gold leaf paintings.

For nature and water lovers, Jaisamand Lake offers a serene escape. This large artificial lake features lotus-shaped towers, shaded pavilions, and a recently built sunset point, perfect for photography, water sports, or a peaceful picnic. With Tijara situated in the heart of the Golden Triangle, it also serves as an excellent base to visit Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Bharatpur, Mathura, and other attractions.

Tijara Fort-Palace offers a range of options for private celebrations and corporate events. Guests can book bespoke setups for occasions such as proposals, anniversaries, family gatherings, or reunions, with arrangements tailored to their requirements. Dining experiences can include an authentic Rajasthani Thali, or a Continental meal, for two or larger groups.

The palace can also host corporate events, team retreats, and offsite meetings, combining professional facilities with the panoramic views. Guests can also choose indoor settings. Event arrangements are handled by the palace team for a seamless experience.