» Alwar

Once an ancient Rajput state, formerly known as Mewar, Alwar was nearest to the Imperial Delhi. The people of the state did not accept any external interference and daringly resisted against foreign invasions.

In the 12th and 13th centuries they formed a group and raided Delhi. But finally Sultan Balban (1276-A.D.- 1287-A.D.) suppressed them, bringing the area under the a Muslim rule. In 1771 A.D. Maharaja Pratap Singh, a Kuchhwaha Rajput belonging to the clan of Jaipur's rulers, won back Alwar and founded a principality of his own.

Apart from its long history, the city has a rich natural heritage with some beautiful lakes and picturesque valley thickly wooded in parts.

» Major Attractions of Alwar

Sariska Palace : A marvellous palace was built here by Maharaja Jai Singh in the honour of the Duke of Edinburgh during his visit to the sanctuary. Presently, it has been converted into a heritage hotel called as Sariska Palace. RTDC Hotel Tiger Den also offers excellent accommodation at Sariska. The best time to drive in the sanctuary is from sunrise till sunset.

Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary : Sharp cliffs of hills and narrow valleys of the Aravallis dominate the landscape of Sariska, whose forests are dry and deciduous. Within the Sariska wildlife sanctuary there are the ruins of medieval temples of Garh-Rajor, belonging to the 10th and 11th centuries.

A 17th century castle on a sharp hilltop at Kankwari, provides a panoramic view of flying Egyptian vultures and eagles. The area was declared a sanctuary in 1955 and became a National Park in 1979.

Vinay Vilas Mahal : An 18th century palace, harmoniously blending the Rajput and Mughal styles of architecture. While the ground floors have been converted into government offices and district courts, the upper apartment is presently a museum.

Purjan Vihar (Company Garden) : A picturesque garden, laid out during the reign of Maharaja Shiv Dan Singh in 1868 AD. The garden has an enchanting setting called ‘Shimla’ which was built by Maharaja Mangal Singh in 1885 AD. The lush surroundings and the cool shades make it the idyllic visiting spot during summers.

» Places to Stay in Alwar

RTDC's Hotel Khartal and Circuit house as well as numorous Daharamshalas solve the purpose of accommodation in Alwar.

» Climate of Alwar

The climate of Alwar is temperate, but compared to other cities and towns of Rajasthan it is not too hot. Summers can be hot (April-June) but winters are cool and pleasant (November-February). The cragged hills that surround Alwar protect it from being too hot in summers.

» Best time to Visit Alwar

Though the weather of Alwar is moderate, it is advisable to visit it in the winter season (September-February).

» How to Get there

Air : Delhi at a distance of 163 km and Jaipur and 150-km are the two nearest airports from Alwar.

Rail : Some important train connections are: Shatabdi Express (New Delhi-Alwar & Ajmer), Superfast Express (New Delhi-Alwar-Ajmer), Intercity Express (Delhi Sarai Rohilla-Alwar-Jaipur), Marudhar Express (Varanasi-Alwar-Jodhpur), Mandore Express (Delhi Sarai Rohilla-Alwar-Jodhpur).

Road : Regular services link Alwar with key destinations in and not far off Rajasthan and Delhi.

Local Transport : Auto - Rickshaws, Cycle-Rickshaws and tongas are the best way to commute within the city.

» Nearby Cities

    » Delhi: 170 km
    » Jaipur: 150 km

» General Information

    » Area : 44.76 sq. km.
    » Altitude : 486 meters
    » Climate : Summer : Max. - 37°C Min. - 24°C
                        Winter : Max. - 31°C Min. - 11°C
                        Rainfall : 62 cms.
    » Clothing : Summer - Light Tropical
                        Winter: Woolen
    » Languages : Rajasthani, Hindi, English.

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