Alwar was once an important Rajput
state. It emerged in the 18th century under Pratap Singh, who pushed
back the rulers of Jaipur to the south and the Jats of Bharatpur to
the east, and who successfully resisted the Marathas. It was one of
the first Rajput states to ally itself with the fledgling British
empire, although British interference in Alwar's internal affairs
meant that this partnership was not always amicable.
The Tourist Reception Centre (( 21868) is not far from the train
station and is open Monday to Saturday 10 am to 1.30 pm and 2 to 5
pm. You can change foreign currency at the State Bank of Bikaner &
Jaipur, near the bus stand.
 Bala Quila:
This imposing fort, with its 5km of ramparts, stands 300m above the
city. Predating the time of Pratap Singh, it's one the few forts in
Rajasthan built before the rise of the Mughals. Unfortunately, the
fort now houses a radio transmitter station and the inside can only
be visited with special permission from the superintendent of
police.
Palace Complex:
Below the fort sprawls the huge city palace complex, its massive
gates and tank lined by a beautifully symmetrical chain of ghats and
pavilions. Today, most of the complex is occupied by government
offices, but there's an interesting government museum housed in the
former City Palace. It's open daily except Friday 10 am to 4.30 pm
and entry is Rs 3 (free on Monday). Photography is prohibited. Some
of the museum's exhibits include stunning weapons, royal ivory
slippers, and old musical instruments. |
Introduction
