On the Delhi-Jaipur Highway, between Behror and Shahajahanpur is the industrial town of Neemrana. It is the site of the magnificent Neemrana Fort . Set amidst lush greenery, Neemrana Fort Palace was built in the year 1464 by the descendants of Prithviraj Chauhan, who continued to occupy it till the year 1947.

The story of present day Neemrana fort began in 1977. While researching for a book on the frescoes: The Painted Walls of Shekhavati, Aman Nath and Francis Wacziarg first saw its 15th century ruins lit up by the setting sun. They were enchanted by the Neemrana fort. The façade had started crumbling and the ramparts had started to crack. Neemrana Fort had been abandoned in the 1940s and fell into a state of neglect.  Aman Nath bought the ruin along with his friends and restored it. The palace has been restored to a grand hotel and has a mystical feel to it.

This majestic fort covers an area of about 10 hectares in the Aravali hills of Rajasthan. It showcases a splendid amalgamation of traditional Rajasthani architecture as well as modern interiors. The fort’s well-preserved ramparts offer breathtaking views of the surrounding neighbourhood. The vast fields around the fort look like a green carpet spread around the fort. The fort is adorned with stunning frescoes depicting mythological tales and Rajput warriors. The whole complex is full of flowers, bushes and trees. There is a maze of staircases, terraces, hidden courtyards, walk-able roofs, hanging gardens, and hallways. The fort is said to have many secret tunnels that lead to different part of the fort . The fort looks picturesque in the sunset. At night the fort looks even more beautiful with shining lights adding grandeur to the ancient charm.

Photos and content by Prerna Jain