Neemrana ,Rajasthan

Neemrana is famous for its magnificent Neemrana Fort Palace. It was built in 1464 AD, place from where Rajput Maharaja Prithvi Raj Chauhan III reigned. 
Distance from Delhi: 120 km
Best Time: July to March

Neemrana town is located in Alwar in Rajasthan on Delhi-Jaipur highway. It is famous for its magnificent Neemrana Fort Palace. It was built in 1464 AD, a palace from where Rajput Maharaja Prithvi Raj Chauhan III reigned. Neemrana fort is now converted into one of the Rajasthan's oldest heritage luxury hotels.
The fort has been restored and developed for the people to enjoy amalgamation of history and modernity. To spend a peaceful and magical weekend getaway near Delhi, Neemrana provides heritage, celebrations and colours that is surrounded by the beauty of nature, where each silent big wall shouts out loud its different heroic story. Neemrana is very popular among Delhi crowd as a perfect place to visit just for a day to enjoy the heritage resort and also the activities including zip-lining, swimming, etc.

Places To Visit In Neemrana

1) Neemrana Fort Palace
The 15th-century palace, Neemrana Fort, is an epitome of immense beauty. It finds itself in the Aravalli ranges, the oldest fold mountains in the world. Now turned into a luxury resort, the palace was once under the reign of Rajput Maharaja Prithvi Raj Chauhan III. Built-in 1464, it became the third capital of the king's descendants. The majestic fort almost covers 10 hectares of the area over the hill. It showcases a perplexing blend of traditional Rajasthani and modern styled interior. Since the time it had opened itself to the public, the palace has become the favourite place for weekend getaways. Located in an ideal location of Delhi-Jaipur highway it attracts the travellers from both the places. The Palace has earned an excellent reputation for its Rajasthani and French cuisines.
One of India's oldest heritage resorts, The Neemrana Fort Palace offers you with splendid night views. Two pools around the palace, hanging gardens and beautiful rooms make the visit to Neemrana a memorable one. The 11-tiered fort palace has a lot to bring forward to its guests, keeping them busy exploring the charm of the fort. Apart from being an ideal destination for a little break, the fort is preferred to be one of the best places for holding marriage ceremonies and other cultural events. 

2) Zip Lining
Adrenaline junkies, rejoice! Combining an experience of thrilling adventure and historical sightseeing, the Neemrana Fort offers zip lining right through its mesmerising landscapes on the outskirts of Delhi. Flying high at a speed of 40 kilometres per head, this encounter is exciting escapade. While ziplining, you will cover about five different hills, with the entire route spanning over the imposing construction that Neemrana Fort is. There can be no better way to capture the beauty of this destination than to zip line right through the heart of it!
In its essence, zip lining is an activity which involves sliding from a higher altitude to a lower altitude. With its hilly terrains, Neemrana Fort is the perfect place for this stimulating activity. The zipline route is 400 meters in its length, and the entire activity takes about 2.5 hours to complete. 
The activity begins with a 20-25 minute walk up the hills, followed by a safety brief and practice session before the actual zip lining begins. The five zip lines of Neemrana include Qila Slammer, Where Eagles Dare, Pussy Galore, Goodbye Mr Bond and The Big B. Located at a considerable height, these zip lines provide bird's eye view of the entire Neemrana Fort and the exquisite beauty of the surrounding Aravalli Hills as well.

3)Sariska National Park
Nestled in the Aravali Hills over an area of about 800 sq. Km covering the grasslands, dry deciduous forests, cliffs and rocky landscape, lays the Sariska National Park, now known as The Sariska Tiger Reserve. This area was once hunting preservation of The Maharaja of Alwar. The Reserve is known for its majestic Royal Bengal Tigers. It was declared as a national park in 1982. 
The protected area is a part of the Aravali Range and the Kathiawar-Gir dry deciduous forests ecoregion. In 1978, it was given the status of Tiger Reserve under the Project Tiger. It is the first tiger reserve to relocate the Tigers (from Ranthambore) successfully. As it lies in the lap of Aravali Hills, it holds an abundant amount of mineral resources like copper.

4)Baori
A very old and magnificent multi-storied structure compliments Neemrana. It has 170 steps and as we move down the construction seems to be smaller. Neemrana baori reflects the beauty of old architecture.
This is cool and moist from inside. This baori is still in use, both for consumption of water and irrigation.

5) Bala Quila, Alwar
This ancient fort is located on a stiff cliff above the city palace. Bala Quila fort has six gates namely, Jai Pol, Suraj Pol, Laxman Pol, Chand Pol, Krishen Pol and Andheri Gate, which is extended about 5 km from north to south and 1.6km from east to west. 
km from east to west. This huge structure has several towers (burj) around 74 in number. If this is not enough, there are 3,359 kangaroos, each containing two loopholes for musketry. Since it is 304 meters above the sea level, it provides an awesome view of the Alwar city which can be watched from the towers.

6)Shopping in Neemrana
There can be no other way to relax and unwind after a long day of tourist activities than to stroll down the lazy streets of your destination and well, shop! Neemrana is not your usual shopping destination, but you can surely find some great merchandise over here. Ranging from the authentic Rajasthani 'ghagra choli' to intricate handicrafts, the heritage site of Neemrana has quite a few things to offer.
When in Neemrana, it is essential that you buy the very splendid Rajasthani Ghagra and choli. And if you look around, you will also find beautiful accessories which are a mix of traditional designs and modern trends. You can also find a wide array of lifestyle and gift items here, which includes candles, cutlery, crockery, linen and traditional handicrafts items. Beautiful artwork, silverware and porcelain items also find a place here, and undoubtedly a souvenir or two from this beautiful place will render your house even more charming than before.

Bharatpur National Park
Distance from Delhi: 208 km

Now known as the Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur National Park is a famous avifauna sanctuary and a bird watching paradise listed among UNESCO's World Heritage sites. The 29 km reserve is locally known as Ghana and is a mosaic of dry grasslands, woodlands, woodland swamps, and wetlands. These diverse habitats are home to 366 bird species, 379 floral species, 50 species of fish, 13 species of snakes, 5 species of lizards, 7 amphibian species,7 turtle species, and a variety of other invertebrates. Every year thousands of migratory waterfowl visit the park for winter breeding.
The sanctuary is one of the richest bird areas in the world. It is a human-made establishment known for nesting of its resident birds and visiting migratory birds including water birds. What is interesting note is that this place was once the waterfowl hunting ground for the royalty and the British, but was converted into an asylum for birds and other wildlife as well in the year 1971. You can take a Jeep Ride or Rickshaw Safari to spot exotic birds and a few animals that inhabit the jungle as well. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is easily a bird lover's paradise, and photographers will find this place to be delightful as well.

Things To Do In Bharatpur

1) Brij Festival
Brij festival or Brij Mahotsav is a popularly celebrated festival in the Brij region of Bharatpur, three days before Holi celebrations. Celebrated in the month of March, the pump and vigour of this occasion is for the devotion of Lord Krishna. The true essence of the city can be observed during this time as people of all ethnic cultures come together to celebrate the eternal dedication in Lord Krishna. A unique feature of this festival is the Rasila dance. On that auspicious day, people take a dip in the holy water of Banganga river which is believed to be a very process of purification.

2) Banke Bihari Temple
Considered to be one of the holiest towns in the state of Uttar Pradesh, Vrindavan houses a beautiful temple that is dedicated to Lord Krishna. Shri Bankey Bihari Mandir, established by Swami Haridas, a guru of the famous singer, Tansen shelters the image of Lord Krishna in the "Tribhanga" posture. This temple was constructed in 1864 and worships Lord Krishna in the form of a child or more accurately called "Nand Gopal". Situated in close proximity to the Radhavallabh temple, Banke Bihari temple constitutes one among the 7 temples of Thakur of Vrindavan. Banke translates into "bent in three places" and Bihari means "Supreme Enjoyer" and therefore the image of Lord Krishna is seen to be bent in three places. 
The prominent saint and musician, Haridas Swamiji, not only nurtured great talents such as Tansen but was also considered to be the reincarnation of Lalit 'Sakhi' or female friend of Lord Krishna. Originally worshipped under the name of Kunj-Bihari, the image of Bihariji installed in the Shri Banke Bihari Mandir is considered to be one granted to Swami Haridas by the celestial couple Shyama-Shyam themselves. It is said that the Lord appeared in person with his divine consort and left back a black charming image before disappearing after submitting to the desires of the devotees. 
The Seva of the Bihariji is unique in its own way. It is performed in three parts every day ie Shringar, Rajbhog and Shayan. The first part, Shringar (which includes bath, dressing and adornment with jewellery like crown and necklaces) takes place during the morning, Rajbhog(feast) is offered in the forenoon and the Shayan Seva (Shayan means sleep) occurs in the evening.

3) Lohagarh Fort
Located at Bharatpur in Rajasthan, the Lohagarh Fort indeed stands true to its name and has survived solidly and battled the attacks of military forces as well as the ravages of time for centuries. The fort was constructed by the Bharatpur Jat rulers. Maharaja Suraj Mal used all his power and wealth to a good cause and built numerous forts and palaces across his kingdom, one of them being the famous Lohagarh Fort. The monument is an architectural marvel that has especially captures the interests of architecture students and historians. 
The Lohagarh Fort is a one of its kind monument. 'Lohagad' means 'fort of iron', and the fort, as its name suggests, is virtually impenetrable. It is protected by deep moats on all sides, and it was widely believed in earlier times that the fort could fall "only when a crocodile swallowed up all the water in the moat." Originally built in the 1730's, most of the fort today is occupied by government offices and a museum. What strikes the tourist immediately about the architecture of the fort is the lack of pretence; it is simple as far as carvings, paintings and other frills go. There's almost no room for unnecessary ornamentation with its emphasis being on security and security only. Simply put, the fort is modest and functional. 
Inside the mighty fort are three palaces, Mahal Khas, Kamra Palace and the Palace of Badan Singh. Some impressive monuments in the fort also include Kishori Mahal, Mahal Khas and Kothi Khas. Between the museum and the main entrance, known as the Ashtadhatu Gate, is the Nehru Park. It is a pleasant place to sit and enjoy the breeze. The Lohargarh fort makes it quite glaring that the Jats did not believe in carelessness and negligence. Hence, while other weaker forts gave way quickly, the Lohargarh always stood firm to provide the town of Bharatpur the security it needed. If this is not reason enough to go and view the fort, then what is?

3) Laxman Temple
There are two Laxman Temples in the heart of the city, one of them is almost 4 centuries old which is. The other, about 300 years old was made by the founder of Bharatpur, Maharaja Baldev Singh.
It is beautifully made of sandstone and marble. Both these temples are easy to reach from anywhere in the city by cycle rickshaw or tonga.

4)Ganga Mandir
One of the most beautiful temples of Bharatpur, the Ganga Mandir is considered to be a great architectural piece and owing to its central location within the city many tourists are able to appreciate its beauty.
It is dedicated to Goddess Ganga and is a beautiful blend of Rajputana, Mughal and South Indian architecture. The walls and pillars have intricate carvings and this temple is definitely worth a watch.

5)Shopping in Bharatpur
Although Bharatpur is famous for its national park, there are various shops around the city to satiate the shopaholic in you. Popular items include intricately carved jewellery of precious and semi-precious stones, handicrafts, marble carvings, brass work, antiques and Jaipur textiles.
The colourful Jaipur handlooms, especially bandhej materials for saree and suit are so attractive that you can't help but purchase a few sets. The kundans, precious and semi precious stones studded jewewllery represents the ageless Rajasthani art and culture. Apart from these apparels and fabrics, Bharatpur also offers antiques and intricately done marble and brass carvings which never fail to astonish with their beauty.


Vrindavan

"Lord Krishna's childhood abode" 

Vrindavan Tourism 

One of the oldest cities on the banks of Yamuna, Vrindavan is considered to be one of the most important places of pilgrimage for the devotees of Krishna. It is said that Lord Krishna had spent his childhood in Vrindavan. The name of the city has been derived from Vrinda (meaning basil) and van (meaning grove) which perhaps refer to the two small groves at Nidhivan and Seva Kunj. Since Vrindavan is considered to be a sacred place, a large number of people come here to abandon their worldly life.

The city of Vrindavan hosts hundreds of Lord Krishna and Radha temples scattered throughout, the most famous ones being Banke Bihari temple and the world-famous ISKCON temple. The vibrant surroundings perfectly depict the playful and benevolent nature of Lord Krishna. Located along the waters of River Yamuna, the numerous temples set amidst the thick woods and lush greenery of Vrindavan are the major attractions here. 

Must Know Before You Travel to Vrindavan 

1. Temples remain closed between 12 PM to 4 PM so plan your visit accordingly

Places To Visit In Vrindavan
1)Banke Bihari Mandir 56Km From City Center
2) Prem Mandir 1Km From City Center
3) Radha Raman Temple 1Km From City Center
4) Nidhivan  12Km From City Center
5) ISKCON Vrindavan 2Km From City Center 
6) Govind Devji Temple 3Km From City Center 
7) Sri Rangji Mandir 0Km From City Center 
8) Katyayani Peeth 1Km From City Center 
9) Gokulnanda 1Km From City Center 
10) Gopeshwar Mahadev Temple 4Km From City Center
11) Barsana 34Km From The City Center
12) Chamunda Devi Temple 7km From the City Center
13) Keshi Ghat 1Km From City Center 
14) Radha Damodar Temple 1Km From City Center 
15) Mathura 15Km From City Center 
16) Madan Mohan Tempe 1Km From City Center 

Garhmukteshwar
Distance from Delhi: 102 km

Goddess Ganga Devotion" 

At just about 110 km from Delhi, Garhmukteshwar is a heritage town that dates back to having been part of ancient Hastinapur. It currently falls in the Hapur District of Uttar Pradesh. One of the famous road trip routes from Delhi, this is the closest point where one can take a bath in the Holy Ganges. This town is devoted to the worship of Goddess Ganga with four temples dedicated to her, including the main temple of Mukteshwar Mahadev. This region is also famous for dolphin sightings.

 

Kesroli

Distance from Delhi: 159 km
The Hill Fort Kesroli is one of the rare heritage hotels in Alwar that has been in existence since the 14th century. A wonderful destination to enjoy the barrier sunsets, showing daily since 700 years and discovering the Neemrana heritage hotels in Alwar is this resort. Hill Fort-Kesroli is a great holiday choice for those looking for a relaxing weekend getaway from Delhi.
Built in the14th century, Neemrana's Hill Fort-Kesroli is a spectacular ancient heritage palace that will take you back in history. This fort is surrounded by fields all around. The hotel has a huge swimming pool and a beautiful garden. The rooms are decorated in a typically Rajasthani style which giving it a royal feel. 

Nearby Places
1)Sarafa Bazar
Sarafa Bazar is the jewellery market of Alwar where you find a wide range of precious stones, semi-precious stones and diamond jewellery.

2)Bazaza Bazar
Located at the centre of the city, Bazaza Bazar is a wholesale market that sells traditional Rajasthani textile and jewellery items. Jewellery crafted from semi-precious stones and zardozi and silk threads saris sell like hot cakes among tourists.

3)Moti Dungri
Moti Dungri, Alwar is a unique holy shrine where Hindus and Muslims pray together. Sankat Mochan Vir Hanuman Mandir and Sayyed Darbar are in the same complex without a wall in between. On Thursdays, the loudspeakers play Bhajans in the morning and Qawwali in the evening. The mix of fragrances of camphor, ghee and lobaan are infused together. The flags of Saffron and Green along with a Tricolour, are unfurled together. The aura of the place is truly magical! 
The Moti Dungri Palace, on the Moti Dungri hill where the shrine lies is in ruins. The palace built by Maharaja Mangal Singh in 1882, used to be the residence of the royal family of Alwar. Within the palace, there's a Laxminarayan Temple and a Ganesh Temple that are open to the public.

4)Sariska Palace
The grand Sariska Palace, built in 1892 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh of Alwar, is truly a sight for sore eyes. The opulent palace spreads across 120 acres of lush green landscapes, compelling the onlooker to fall in love with its grandeur. However, the main reason why the beauty of the palace is greatly multiplied is that it towers right on the edge of the Sariska National Park. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh built this marvel as a hunting lodge for his guests and himself. The picturesque view of an enormous palace with the backdrop of thick green forests is mesmerizing.
Sariska Palace is now open to tourists as a 5-star hotel. The resplendent palace turned hotel overlooks the national park providing a panoramic view of dense majestic forests. One wakes up to the soft and melodious chirping of several exotic species of birds. Spacious rooms, breathtaking views and generous hospitality; this is truly a one-stop destination to relieve all the stress and tension from our fast-paced lives.

5)Company Bagh
Also known Company Garden or Purjan Vihar, Company Bagh is a beautiful and aesthetic garden located in the heart of the city, adjacent to City Palace. Built in 1868 by Maharaja Shiv Dan Singh, the area has splendid lawns, well-trimmed gardens and overall picturesque beauty. Originally called as ‘Company Garden’, the park was renamed by Maharaja Jai Singh and then came to be known as Purjan Vihar. Besides the verdant greenery and bounteous foliage, Purjan Vihar has a brilliant architecture with Chhattris and Bengali roofs.
In addition, the yard also houses a tiny chamber known as ‘Shimla’ or ‘summer house’ with a huge dome. The structure is named so because the temperature here is always cooler and more pleasant than the adjoining areas and the main city. Once a royal heritage property, the park is open to the common public and serves as one of the most popular tourism spots of the city, owing to its wondrous beauty and old world charm.

6)City Palace, Alwar
City Palace Alwar, also known as Vinay Vilas Mahal, is an architectural marvel with a lovely mix of Mughal and Rajasthani styles. Embellished with fabulous murals and mirror work on the walls and ceiling, the palace has 15 imposing towers and 51 smaller towers overlooking the mountain slopes. The palace has a museum showcasing royal memorabilia. The artificial lake behind the city palace is exquisite. The halls in the City Palace have now been converted into offices of District Collectorate and Police Headquarters