The Gateway to Rajasthan, Alwar is a small yet unique town. This town is home to many splendid monuments and buildings, which stand testimony to a rich and splendid past. Located in a picturesque valley the ambiance of the town is appealing and the presence of lovely lakes makes it even more charming. The city is an architectural wonder and has a fort or palace at every turning. In addition, the presence of several wildlife sanctuaries, hunting lodges and important historical sites make it a must-visit on every traveler’s itinerary.

• Bala Quila: This is a majestic fort that stands tall on a hill towering above the town of Alwar. The fort has 15 large and 51 small towers and its highlight is the Nikumbha Mahal located right on the top. The entire palace is decorated with marble columns and lattice-window balconies. There are six gates at the fort, namely Jai Pol, Suraj Pol, Laxman Pol, Chand Pol, Krishan Pol and Andheri Gate.

• City Palace: Located below the fort, the City Palace is a fine example of the craftsmanship of that era. The central courtyard has a series of pillars resting on lotus flower bases. The palace houses a museum which displays a collection of royal memorabilia, including a drinking cup cut out of a single emerald. The museum also houses a rare collection of Persian and Sanskrit manuscripts, arms, musical instruments, bidri work, miniature paintings, stuffed animals, brass and pottery works as well as ivory work. Behind the palace is a pond which was constructed exquisitely for the royalty.

• Sariska Palace: This was a hunting place laid down by the rulers of Alwar. The place has now been converted into a heritage hotel. Adjacent to it is the Sariska National Park, which is one of the best places to view wildlife from close quarters, especially the elusive tiger and some rare birds.

• Neemrana Fort: Located on a cleft of a hill, this fort-turned-heritage hotel was once a Chauhan stronghold. Providing picturesque views of the entire region, the various rooms in the palace have quaint names like Sheesh Mahal, Chand Mahal and Surya Mahal.

• Siliserh: A picturesque lake surrounded by lush green hilly slopes of the Aravalli, a boat ride across the pretty lake is a wonderful experience. The lake has a magnificent Palace on its banks called the Siliserh Palace, which has been converted into a heritage hotel.

• Jain Temple: An ancient Jain temple dedicated to the eight Tirthankar is located here. The temple is extremely ornate with its elaborate carvings and paintings, and exquisite pillars and arches.

Alwar does not have any top-class signature restaurants. But there is no dearth of eating places here. A large number of eateries are present in the town, which serve local vegetarian dishes. One can savor traditional Rajasthani food, Indian, Mughlai and fast food at different restaurants, hotels and eating points across the city. Alwar is a nice place for those who have a sweet tooth. The Alwar Mawa, a special sweetmeat made of milk, should not be missed by anyone visiting the town.

When in Alwar the best buys are the local traditional arts and crafts items. Alwar is particularly known for its terracotta figures, carpets, embroidered mojris, pottery and jewelry. A must pick from Alwar is the Kagzi item, a wafer-thin pottery. The major shopping areas in Alwar are Hope Circus, Bazaza Bazaar, Saraf Bazaar, Malakhers Bazaar and Kedalgang Bazaar. Another specialty of Alwar is the sweet Palang Torh or milk cake, available in bulk at the sweet shops here.