Perched on the rugged ridges of the Aravalli Hills, Nahargarh Fort offers the most spectacular panoramic view of the Pink City. Originally named Sudarshangarh, this 18th-century marvel was designed as a strategic retreat and remains a testament to the opulent lifestyle of the Rajputana royalty.
🏛️ Essential Visitor Information
| Category | Entry Fee (INR) |
| Indian National | ₹50 |
| Indian Student | ₹20 |
| Foreign Tourist | ₹200 |
| Foreign Student | ₹100 |
Timings: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (All days)
Address: Krishna Nagar, Brahampuri, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 302001, India
Phone: 0141 513 4038
Rating: ⭐ 4/5 Stars (Based on 32 reviews)
📜 A Glimpse Into History
Built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur, Nahargarh was part of a three-fort defense ring alongside Amer and Jaigarh.
The Legend of the Name: Originally Sudarshangarh, it was renamed Nahargarh (“Abode of Tigers”) to appease the spirit of Rathore Prince Nahar Singh Bhomia, who was said to haunt the site during construction.
A Peaceful Fortress: Interestingly, despite its massive fortifications, the fort never witnessed a direct battle.
Safe Haven: During the Indian Mutiny of 1857, the fort served as a sanctuary for Europeans and the wives of British residents.
🎨 Architectural Marvels
The fort is a brilliant fusion of Indo-European architecture. Its highlight is the Madhavendra Bhawan, a two-story complex featuring:
The Nine Suites: Built by Sawai Madho Singh for his nine queens. Each apartment is identical and interconnected by corridors that allowed the King to visit one queen without the others knowing.
The Frescoes: Delicate Victorian floral paintings and intricate minakari work line the walls.
Stepwells (Baoris): The fort features unique water catchment systems that are architectural wonders in their own right.
🎡 Top Things to Do
Jaipur Wax Museum: Located at the entrance, featuring over 35 statues of celebrities and historical icons.
Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors): A breathtaking structure made of 25 million glass pieces with gold polish.
Sculpture Park: A contemporary art space within the Madhavendra Palace.
Royal Gaitor Tombs: Located just a kilometer away, these marble cenotaphs are the final resting places of Jaipur’s Maharajas.
🍴 Dining with a View
After exploring the ramparts, you can dine at these popular spots within the fort premises:
Once Upon a Time at Nahargarh: A royal fine-dining experience with majestic interiors.
Padao Restaurant: A casual spot perfect for quick bites while watching the city lights flicker below.
Nahargarh Palace Hotel: Offers a blend of Rajasthani and International cuisines.
📍 Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit: October to March (the winter months provide a pleasant breeze for walking).
Stay for the Sunset: The fort is famous for its sunset views. Watching the city transition from pink to a glittering gold at night is a must-see.
How to Reach: While it is 20 km from the railway station and 28 km from the airport, the best way to travel is by booking a private cab or an auto-rickshaw to navigate the winding uphill road.
Tip: Keep an eye out for the bats in the upper rooms of the fort, and don’t forget your camera—the vantage points here are a photographer’s dream!
This custom 1-day itinerary is designed to help you experience the “Pink City” in a logical flow, starting with the early morning sun on the Hawa Mahal and ending with a panoramic sunset at Nahargarh Fort.
🕒 The 1-Day Jaipur “Royal Loop” Itinerary
| Time | Stop | Activity |
| 8:30 AM | Hawa Mahal | View the facade in the best morning light; take a quick 30-min tour inside. |
| 9:30 AM | City Palace | Explore the royal residence, museums, and the famous Peacock Gate. |
| 11:30 AM | Jantar Mantar | Visit the UNESCO observatory (right next to City Palace). |
| 1:00 PM | Lunch | Try a traditional Rajasthani Thali at LMB (Laxmi Mishtan Bhandar) or Baradari. |
| 2:30 PM | Jal Mahal | Stop for a photo at the promenade on your way to Amer. |
| 3:15 PM | Amer Fort | Spend 2 hours exploring the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) and courtyards. |
| 5:15 PM | Nahargarh Fort | Head up the hill for a 10:00 PM closing time; watch the sunset over the city. |
| 7:00 PM | Dinner | Enjoy a meal at Padao Café (inside Nahargarh) with city lights below. |
🎟️ Updated Entry Fees (Effective Jan 1, 2026)
As of early 2026, the Rajasthan government has revised ticket prices. Below are the current rates for the stops in your plan:
Amer Fort: ₹200 (Indian) | ₹1,000 (Foreigner)
Hawa Mahal: ₹100 (Indian) | ₹600 (Foreigner)
Jantar Mantar: ₹100 (Indian) | ₹600 (Foreigner)
Nahargarh Fort: ₹100 (Indian) | ₹600 (Foreigner)
City Palace: Approx. ₹300 (Indian) | ₹1,000 (Foreigner) — Note: This is privately managed and not included in the government composite ticket.
Jal Mahal: Free (Viewing from the lakeside only).
💡 Pro Tip: The Composite Ticket
If you plan to visit at least 3 government sites (Amer, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, Nahargarh, Albert Hall), ask for the Composite Ticket. It costs ₹420 for Indians or ₹1,100 for Foreigners and is valid for 2 days. This is significantly cheaper than buying individual tickets for each site.
🚗 Practical Travel Tips
Transportation: For a 1-day trip, it is highly recommended to hire a private cab for the full day (approx. ₹1,500–₹2,000). While Uber/Ola work in the city, getting one back down from Nahargarh Fort at night can be difficult.
Panna Meena Ka Kund: Since you are already at Amer Fort, ask your driver to stop at this beautiful geometric stepwell. It’s just 5 minutes away and perfect for photos.
Dress Code: Wear comfortable walking shoes. You will be walking on cobblestones and climbing stairs at Amer and Nahargarh.
To make your 1-day Jaipur trip truly memorable, here are the best local restaurant recommendations categorized by their vibe and distance from your planned stops.
🍴 Lunch: Near City Palace & Hawa Mahal
Since you’ll be in the heart of the “Pink City” around midday, these spots are just a short walk or rickshaw ride away:
The Heritage Choice: Laxmi Misthan Bhandar (LMB)
Vibe: Legendary, bustling, and authentic.
Must-Try: The Royal Rajasthani Thali (it’s a massive feast!) and their world-famous Paneer Ghevar for dessert.
Distance: 5-10 min walk from City Palace.
The Upscale Choice: Baradari
Vibe: Stunning contemporary decor located inside the City Palace walls. It blends historic architecture with modern fine dining.
Must-Try: Laal Maas (if you eat meat) or their signature Risotto with a Rajasthani twist.
Distance: Located within the City Palace complex.
The Traditional Choice: Govindam Retreat
Vibe: Family-friendly, known for authentic flavors and puppet shows.
Must-Try: Dal Baati Churma. It is widely considered one of the best places to try this staple dish near the palace.
☕ Late Afternoon Snacks (Street Food Stops)
While heading from Jantar Mantar toward Amer/Nahargarh, ask your driver to stop for these quick bites:
Rawat Mishtan Bhandar: Stop here for their famous Pyaaz Kachori (onion pastry). It is the most famous snack in Jaipur.
Lassiwala (MI Road): Look for the “Original” shop (usually the one with the longest line) and get a thick lassi in a clay cup (kulhad). It’s incredibly refreshing.
🌙 Dinner: At Nahargarh Fort (With a View)
Since your itinerary ends at Nahargarh for the sunset, dining here is the perfect way to see the city lights:
The “View” Choice: Padao Restaurant
Vibe: Casual, open-air, and perched right on the edge of the fort.
Best for: Watching the city “sparkle” at night. It’s more of a lounge/casual spot, perfect for snacks and drinks with the best view in Jaipur.
The “Royal” Choice: Once Upon a Time at Nahargarh
Vibe: Sophisticated and romantic. It feels like dining in a palace room.
Must-Try: Their traditional platters and Ker Sangri (a desert berry delicacy).
Alternative (On the way down): 1135 AD (Amer Fort)
Vibe: If you want a “King for a Night” experience, this is it. It has gold-leafed walls and live classical music. It is about 20-25 mins from Nahargarh.
💡 Quick Foodie Tip:
If you want to try many local street foods in one clean, organized place, visit Masala Chowk (near Albert Hall Museum). It’s an open-air food court that hosts all of Jaipur’s most famous street vendors in one spot.
