Whenever I get the chance, I like to go for a quick weekend getaway with my family. Fortunately, there are many options near Delhi that offer luxury and relaxation… but not all of them offer a glimpse of our country’s culture. This time, I wanted to immerse myself in the history and heritage of India but without the hassle of a long journey. Certainly, Neemrana Fort-Palace is an ideal destination. Located in Rajasthan, just a few hours away, this 553-year-old medieval fort palace offers a mesmerizing blend of culture, heritage and scenery. It’s an opportunity to dive deep into Rajasthani culture without venturing all the way to Jaipur.
Our journey took a little over three hours due to road repairs, but the anticipation built on the road was worth it. Upon arrival, I was immediately impressed by the beauty of the fort. The peaceful atmosphere is an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The charm of the fortified countryside, from the brick walls to the cobbled streets, transported me to the bygone era, with even an ancient horse carriage Greeting us at the door. The beauty of the fort piqued my curiosity to learn its history.
The story of Neemrana Fort
Nestled in the Aravalli hills, Neemrana Fort-Palace offers some of the most spectacular sunsets in the countryside. Originally built in 1464, the fort was abandoned in 1947 when Raja Rajinder Singh moved down to Vijay Bagh as its facade crumbled. For forty years, the castle fell into disrepair, until it was bought for restoration in 1986. Today, this magnificent ruin has been transformed into a magnificent resort, officially opened in 1991, with 81 rooms and suites spread over 14 truncated levels to the hill. .
Explore Neemrana Fort-Palace
As I walked into this heritage property, I was transported back to the royal era. The authentic restoration of the fort structure captures the essence of medieval India. Neemrana Fort-Palace is a maze of interconnected courtyards, gardens and rooms. Exploring the property is an adventure in itself, as you traverse narrow paths and discover hidden corners. However, it requires some physical fitness to go up and down a series of rough stairs and ramps.
It might sound tiresome but believe me it’s actually the fun part. As I huffed and puffed into the room, I couldn’t help but admire the visual treats on the way. The view of the Aravali hills, the small pond with floating lotus leaves, the rocks on the wall – everything is divine. Our room in the Hawa Mahal wing only added to the charm. It was spacious and the balcony looked over the pool with the Aravalli mountains in the background – perfect!
Now, The Most Anticipated Part Of The Stay – The Food!
Restaurants in Neemrana Fort-Palace:
After settling in, the first thing we wanted to do was eat! We arrived past lunchtime but thankfully the staff informed us about the pizza served in one of the restaurants called Katoria, which felt almost mystical with the mountain rock carved right inside the restaurant. It was like I was in another world. The wood-fired chicken pizza is a pleasant surprise, with a thin and crispy crust, with good vegetables and meat. On our way back to our room, we took a small detour to explore the place. We sighted peacocks, monkeys, parrots and even frogs jumping around with joy. A was a big walk back to the room.
After some rest, it was time to have tea at Jahangir Mahal. A selection of chaats and snacks like corn chaat and kachori are enough to keep hunger pangs at bay until dinner. Tea cakes and cookies are a great accompaniment to my coffee. Below the Jalgiri Mahal is a swimming pool facing the Aravalli. I can’t wait to have some pool time with my kids. The water is clean and the staff are helpful and ready with anything you need.
An Entertaining Evening At Neemrana Fort-Palace
There was still some time left for dinner and thankfully, there was no dull moment at Neemrana. A cultural dance program was organized in the amphitheater which we enjoyed very much. The dances and stories were fun and informative.
Then it was time for dinner at Kanak Mahal.
As someone who believes that the best way to explore new places is through food, I was in culinary heaven. The sumptuous multi-cuisine buffet includes impressive Rajasthani food. I learned that the property focuses on local grains and seasonal ingredients and incorporates millets into most meals. The spread screams favor and health. It offers pumpkin pear barley soup, bajre and murgh ke kes, millet sprouts salad, quinoa salad, red rice tehri, moringa paneer lababdar, ker sngri khatte saag with pearl bajra and other dishes. Paneer tikka and alsi kebab, dal neemrana, dal baati churma, Rajasthani gate ki sabzi, laal maas and more. Every dish tastes divine. Imagine even baati from dal baati churm plate made with red millet.
Then there is a separate snack station in the courtyard – with amaranth methi tacos, chilla ragi, millet falafel and more. If that wasn’t impressive enough, I was surprised to see a dessert made from millet. Ragi and jiggery ladoo, mixed millet granola bar, local wheat malai ghewar – let me indulge guilt-free!
Not in the mood for Indian food? There are noodles, stir-fried vegetables and pasta – great options to keep the kids entertained. I went to sleep with a happy and full stomach.
Breakfast in the morning was again enjoyable. From continental to south Indian to north Indian and Rajasthani cuisine – there is plenty to choose from. If you want to eat delicious Neemrana food, it is better to have lunch there before hitting the road. Lamb Galoush, Murgh Shekhwani, junglee maas, Thai curry, fried rice and many other Rajasthani food options made for a delightful lunch. Desserts are varied with fruit custard, mango mousse, chocolate pudding and more.
I’ll admit I was loathe to leave the place. Its beauty and tranquility together with the immersive experience of exploring its nooks and crannies – it feels like living among royalty. And the lingering taste of lip-smacking food makes it harder to say goodbye. I left with a promise to come back, maybe to live again next time. With such a large property, there is so much to explore in one day. Enter now with nostalgic memories of my wonderful staycation at Neemrana Fort-Palace.