Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to live in an ancient castle?

Living in an ancient fort, built way back in the 1400's, is an attraction that few would be able to resist, and is also something that is offered by the town of Neemrana.  Being close to the capital of India, people take time out to visit Neemrana, whether they are in India for business or pleasure.

History of Neemrana

The history of the place lies with the main attraction of the town, which is the Neemrana fort.  This site was chosen by Raja Rajdeo, and it was built in 1464 AD by the Chauhans.  When the local chieftain, Nimola Meo, lost to the Chauhans, he pleaded that his name be given to the location in memory of his lost kingdom.  This is how the town got its name.

Tourism of Neemrana

The Neemrana fort has now been converted to a hotel.  Spread over 10 hectares and rising 10 stories high, the fort is majestic to look at and commands an awesome view of the surroundings.  In 1986, the restoration of the structure was begun.  The target was to keep the design intact while allowing for improvisations that give guests total comfort and awesome views of the surrounding area.  Today, tourists all agree that this was fully achieved.

This is not the only palace worth visiting though.  There is also the Vinay Vilas Mahal which was built in the 18^th century as a house of the rulers of the state of Alwar.  Its use has been retained up until today as it is used by the government, but half of it has also been converted into a museum.  The palace is an excellent example of Rajasthani and Mughul architecture, and it also has samples of art.  The walls are filled with murals, and the museum has an interesting collection of mirror art, weapons and paintings.  The Durbar hall in the museum still has the gold and velvet throne used in the past.

The old hunting ground of the Alwar rulers has now been converted into a reserve, and it is a place to see samples of wildlife such as the Royal Bengal Tiger, the Leopard, Sambhar, four horned antelopes and other animal species that are considered as endangered.  It is now known as the Sariska National Park, protected since 1958 and declared a National Park in 1982.  Tourists are allowed to visit the area, and all hope to see the Royal Bengal Tiger at least once.

The heritage hotels are excellent places for doing nothing.  This is what Siliserh Lake is for.  The lake palace, built in 1845 by Maharaja Vinay Singh for his wife, has been converted into a hotel as well.  The lake itself is a great place for lounging around, and a lot of people travel here just so that they can have picnics in the area.

Neemrana generates a lot of income from its tourism, and this is of no surprise.  The area is conducive for relaxing, and people who travel to the area say that they leave it rejuvenated and ready for the work that lies ahead of them.