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Bala Quila (Alwar Fort)

Bala Quila (Alwar Fort)

heritage site · Rajasthan

State
Rajasthan
Type
Heritage Site

Bala Quila crowns a hilltop over 1,000 feet above Alwar, a sprawling fortification some 5km long and 1.5km wide with fifteen large and fifty-one small towers, and — by one official count — 446 loopholes built for long-barrelled muskets. Six historic gateways, including Suraj Pol and Chand Pol, lead through walls that changed hands between Mughal, Maratha and Jat rulers before Alwar's own royal family took final control.

Bala Quila (Alwar Fort) is known for

1,000-foot hilltop views15 large and 51 small towersSuraj Kud and Nikumbha Mahal Palace

A short history

Built around 1200 CE and substantially fortified in 1550 by Hasan Khan Mewati, the fort was later held in turn by the Mughals, Marathas and Jats before passing to the rulers of Alwar state. [Source: Incredible India, Ministry of Tourism]

Why Bala Quila (Alwar Fort) matters

One of the larger hill forts in Rajasthan by footprint, commanding the Aravalli approach to Alwar.

When to go

October to March

How to reach

On a hilltop above Alwar city, Rajasthan; some areas require prior permission as parts remain under police/army use.

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