Heights of sky

This ancient fort perched on a steep cliff, about 304 meters high has been a standing sentinel to the crumbling history of valour and chivalry. It was perhaps built by Nikumbh Rajputs in 928 A.D. and was later occupied by Mughals and Jats. In 1775 A.D. the fort was conquered by Maharao Raja Pratap Singh, the founder of Alwar state. The huge fort extends about 5 km from north to south and 1.6 km from east to west. There are 15 large and 51 small towers (Burj) with 446 loopholes for musketry and eight towers (Burj) around it to strengthen its defences. If this is not enough, there are 3,359 kanguras, each containing two loopholes for musketry. The fort has six gates, namely, Jai Pol, Suraj Pol, Laxman Pol, Chand Pol, Krishen Pol and Andheri Gate. Most of the structures within the ramparts lie in ruins, the remains of Jai Mahal, Nikumbh Mahal, Salim Sagar Pond, Suraj Kund and many temples still reflect the grandeur of the bygone era. A dilapidated fortress, built in 1049 A.D. by Alagh Rai can also be seen here. A splended view of the Alwar city can be enjoyed from the watch towers of this impregnable bastion.