Alwar Tourism (2020) - Rajasthan > Top Places, Travel Guide

Matsya Festival

The Matsya Festival of culture is an integral part of Alwar’s pride and heritage. Held in November (subject to changes), the festival is a 2-day long festival is a celebration of Rajasthan’s traditional values, cultures and prosperity. The Matsya Festival is famous for its colourful processions, cultural performances, art exhibitions and more. It also covers and an array of sporting events and activities such as paragliding, hot air balloon rides and more. The magnificent presence of Alwar's forts, palaces, lakes and forests provide an excellent setting for this grand celebration.

History

In 1106 Vikrami Samvat (1049 CE), the King of Amer founded the city of Alpur under his own name, which eventually became Alwar. Different Rajput sub-clans henceforth ruled this place from time to time, examples of which include Khanzada Rajputs, Nikumbh Rajputs, Badgujar Rajputs and finally Naruka Rajputs. A Rajput, Pratap Singh took over the possession of the Alwar fort from Jat Raja of Bharatpur on an agreement and laid the foundation of the modern Alwar, which became a princely state during colonialism. On 18th March 1948, the state merged with 3 neighbouring princely states- Bharatpur, Dholpur and Karauli. On 15th May, Alwar was added to neighbouring princely states and the territory of Ajmer to form modern-day Rajasthan. It was also designated as a part of the National Capital Region, thus initiating rapid development.

A unique blend of royalty and wildlife

Founded by rulers from the majestic province of Amer, Alwar is a glorious witness to the majestic rule of the Rajputs, followed by Marathas & Jats respectively. Interestingly, Alwar is also famous for being the birthplace of one of the last few Hindu Emperors of India, Hemu, apart from being the inventors of the famous sweet dish, Kalakand. Not only this, Alwar is also equally famous for the nearby Sariska wildlife sanctuary, which houses some of the rarest breeds of the endangered tigers.

Restaurants and Local Food in Alwar

Alwar is the home of Alwar ka mawa (milk cake) and Kalakand. These sweets are the definition of Ajmer's cuisine and you just don't visit Ajmer without trying these. While these sweets are unique to the town, it offers you a wide and rich range of popular Rajasthani preparations and snacks. The town's menu comprises of Puri, Dal Bati Choorma, Rabdi, Lassi, Gatte ki Sabzi and much more.
View Top Restaurants in Alwar

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1- Start early at about 6 am. Reach Neemrana Fort Palace-the magnificent palace turned hotel built which is a perfect blend of classical and modern architecture, with sprawling wings and terraces. Proceed to Bala Quila, also known as Alwar fort, situated at 300 m above the city. This classic architecture is combined with a lot of historical significance which makes it a tourist favourite. Visit City Palace - the perfect blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture, another major tourist attraction. The highlight of this palace are the four entry gates- Laxman Pol, Suraj Pol, Chandigarh Pol, Kishan Pol and Andheri Gate. Beyond these gates lies an open gate with Krishna temples on all sides. Visit Kesroli Hill Fort- sitting atop rare and dark Breccia rocks, the fort is responsible for breathtaking views from its ramparts which rise to 55-60 m. Overnight stay at Alwar.

Day 2- Start early at about 5am. Visit Sariska Tiger Reserve for safari. Sariska is one of the more popular wildlife destination in Rajasthan and is among the 28 tiger reserves in the country. Embark on a safari. Proceed to Bhangarh Fort, ranked among the most haunted places in India. In the end, visit Siliserh Lake and Palace, famous for its picturesque view and being home to a large number of migratory birds.