A photographer’s journey of exploration is unstoppable. On a crisp Sunday morning in February, I felt that familiar urge for exploration stirring within me. Having just settled in Faridabad, I was excited to discover the local attractions around me.
After some exploration, I discovered an ideal destination for a day trip—Neemrana Fort, a stunning palace nestled in the Delhi NCR area. My colleague, Abhijeet, enthusiastically accepted my invitation to embark on this journey together, and thus our adventure commenced.
Early Morning Ride
The day kicked off bright and early, with me rising at 4 a.m. to give Abhijeet a call and nudge him awake as well. At 5 a.m., I picked him up from Ballabhgarh on my bike, and we ventured into the dark, chilly morning. The streets were hauntingly still, and navigating through the early hours brought a sense of unease, particularly with the safety issues that often arise in the Delhi NCR area after dark. Despite the challenges, our resolve to reach Neemrana remained unwavering.
Once we passed Gurgaon, we made a brief stop at a charming roadside tea stall to enjoy some warmth. The sky remained shrouded in darkness, yet gradually the horizon began to glow with the initial rays of the sun, painting the landscape in hues of orange and blue. Our adventure unfolded on the expansive, straight stretch of the Delhi-Jaipur highway, where the roar of trucks echoed beside us. Even though the journey lacked breathtaking views, the allure of Neemrana fuelled our excitement to continue.
Breakfast and Arrival
As the clock ticked to 7:30 a.m., our stomachs began to rumble, prompting us to pull over at a charming dhaba for a quintessential North Indian breakfast—Parathas slathered in rich Desi Makhan. There’s an undeniable charm to dhaba food, particularly when it’s enjoyed steaming hot on a crisp morning.
After indulging in a delicious meal and capturing some memorable photos, we set off on our journey once more. By 8:45 a.m., we arrived at the gates of Neemrana Fort, filled with a thrilling sense of anticipation. We finally arrived!
Then I encountered my first surprise: the fort gates were locked tight until 11 a.m. Other riders who had also arrived early appeared just as confused, as Google had mistakenly indicated that the opening time was 9 a.m. As we pondered our options, a suggestion floated up to explore the nearby Neemrana Baori (stepwell).
Exploring Neemrana Baori
We set off on an exhilarating off-roading adventure, arriving at the Neemrana Baori in just about 15 minutes. I was pleasantly surprised; the Baori revealed itself to be impressively vast, featuring numerous levels of steps that gracefully descend into the earth. As a passionate traveler, I found myself irresistibly drawn to my camera, eager to capture the magnificent beauty of this historic monument. The lower levels were shrouded in murky water, creating an atmosphere that was both eerie and intriguingly mysterious.
During our adventures, we encountered a delightful couple from Rajasthan who kindly requested that I capture their moment in a photograph. They even suggested covering the costs, but we politely declined—after all, capturing moments is about connection, not profit.
Several workers requested to have their photos taken, sparking some cheerful conversations about their experiences and stories.
As the clock ticked closer to 11 a.m., we made our way from the Baori back to the majestic Neemrana Fort.
Entering Neemrana Fort
We parked our bikes and strolled towards the fort’s entrance, only to be greeted by an unexpected twist: entry tickets were priced at ₹2000! Abhijeet and I exchanged a glance, completely taken aback. The ticket came with a lunch priced at ₹1400, which seemed a bit pricey, but with no alternatives available, we went ahead and purchased the tickets before entering.
Neemrana Fort transports you to a bygone era, showcasing exquisite stone-carved architecture, vibrant greenery, and an enchanting sense of royalty. The fort, transformed from a private property into a charming hotel, is impeccably maintained, with each of its 11 stories offering inviting rooms for guests. As day visitors, we had the privilege of exploring up to the 8th floor.
Exploring the Royal Grounds
Our journey commenced as we meandered through courtyards embellished with historic Palkis (royal carriages) and rooftops that provided stunning vistas of the enchanting landscape around us. The amphitheater was truly a gem, a quaint venue that sparked my imagination about the magnificent performances that must have graced its stage in days gone by.
Everywhere we explored, we stumbled upon stunning locations perfect for capturing memories. The intricate doors of Neemrana, its lush green courtyards, and the rich historic ambiance create an ideal setting for anyone passionate about photography and storytelling.
I couldn’t help but imagine how perfect this spot would be for a pre-wedding shoot, and I was certain that many others had thought the same.
At last, we arrived at the highest point accessible to guests, and the scenery was absolutely breathtaking.
The fort proudly stands on a hill, where the harmonious fusion of architecture and nature conjures an enchanting atmosphere.
The Royal Lunch
At 2 p.m., the moment for the royal lunch arrived, and I must say, it exceeded all expectations. The buffet offered an impressive selection of dishes, and although I typically lean towards main courses, Abhijeet savored some delightful vegetarian starters.
The ₹1400 spent on the meal truly felt justified. We relished our lunch in the majestic ambiance, fully embracing the royal essence of Neemrana.
Wrapping Up the Day
Post-lunch, we ventured into additional sections of the fort, including the basement, where we discovered fascinating exhibits showcasing royal living. It was absolutely captivating to explore the lifestyles of the royals from a bygone era.
As our adventure came to an end, we found ourselves at the exit, where an unexpected sight awaited us—a vintage Bentley, elegantly encased in glass. What a splendid conclusion to our regal adventure!
With our hearts overflowing and our cameras packed with memories, we jumped back on the bike and set off toward our home in Faridabad. My visit to Neemrana Fort was a brief yet enriching experience that I will always cherish. It filled me with a sense of achievement as I crossed another adventure off my bucket list.
Best Time to Visit Neemrana Fort
If you’re considering a visit, the ideal time to explore Neemrana Fort is during the pleasant months from October to March. The weather is just perfect for some outdoor adventures, allowing you to soak in the majestic beauty of the fort without the sweltering summer heat.
Final Thoughts
Neemrana Fort offers an enchanting glimpse into history, where every corner reveals a royal experience just waiting to be discovered. If you have a passion for history, an eye for photography, or simply seek a peaceful weekend escape from Delhi, this fort is sure to captivate you.Top of Form
