Neemrana Fort Palace

Perched majestically on the rugged Aravalli hills in Rajasthan, Neemrana Fort Palace is a stunning blend of royal history, architectural grandeur, and modern luxury. Built in the 15th century (1464 AD), this seven-tiered fort once guarded the Delhi-Ajmer trade route. Today, it has been lovingly restored into one of India’s most iconic heritage hotels – where guests can live, dine, and celebrate like royalty.

Just two hours from Delhi, Neemrana Fort Palace has become a favourite for weekend getaways, luxury weddings, and cultural experiences. Whether it’s sipping tea on a terrace overlooking endless landscapes, flying across the fort on a zipline, or wandering through courtyards filled with centuries-old tales, every moment here feels like a step back in time – without losing modern comforts.

Its charm lies not only in its sandstone walls and regal arches but also in how it blends history with hospitality. The fort has been a pioneer in heritage tourism in India, attracting travelers, history buffs, and destination wedding planners from across the world. From Bollywood film shoots to royal celebrations, Neemrana Fort Palace is a living chapter of Rajasthan’s cultural legacy.

Why visit Neemrana Fort Palace?

• A chance to stay in a 15th-century fort with luxury amenities.
• Perfect weekend escape from Delhi NCR.
• Thrilling zipline adventure over historic battlements.
• Ideal for destination weddings and events.
• Rich history and stunning architecture that photographers dream of.

Historical Background

Long before Neemrana Fort Palace became the Instagram-famous getaway it is today, it was simply a fort – but one with a destiny.

The story begins in 1464 AD, when the ruling Chauhans of Rajputana, proud descendants of the legendary Prithviraj Chauhan III, decided to build a stronghold in the Aravalli hills. The location was no accident – Neemrana sat on the crucial Delhi-Ajmer route, a lifeline for trade, politics, and military movement. The fort’s high vantage point meant any approaching enemy could be spotted from miles away.

For centuries, Neemrana was more than stone walls; it was a living kingdom. Courtyards buzzed with courtly gatherings, elephants passed through its grand gateways, and the jharokhas framed views of endless desert skies. Like many Rajput forts, Neemrana saw its share of sieges, alliances, and shifting power, but it remained in the Chauhan family’s hands for hundreds of years.

The decline began in the 19th century. Changing political landscapes under the British Raj, combined with internal disputes, led to the fort losing its strategic and royal importance. By the 1940s, the last of the royal family had moved away. Neemrana was left to the mercy of time – its walls crumbled, vines claimed its courtyards, and the desert winds became its only guests.

For decades, the fort stood abandoned, a romantic ruin. Villagers told stories about ghosts wandering the corridors, and travelers would see it from the highway, wondering what secrets it held.

Everything changed in 1986, when Aman Nath and Francis Wacziarg, two visionaries with a passion for heritage, discovered the fort in its ruinous state. Instead of seeing decay, they saw possibility. They bought the property and began an ambitious restoration – not to erase its history, but to preserve it exactly as it had aged, giving travelers a chance to sleep within history itself.

By 1991, Neemrana Fort Palace opened its doors as India’s first heritage hotel, setting a new trend in the country’s tourism scene. What had once been a forgotten ruin was now a living monument – with its history intact and its future brighter than ever.

Architecture & Layout

Walking into Neemrana Fort Palace feels less like entering a hotel and more like stepping into a time machine. Nothing about its layout is straightforward – it’s a seven-tiered maze of terraces, stairways, hidden corridors, and open courtyards that seem to appear around corners without warning.

The fort is a perfect example of Rajput-Mughal architectural fusion. Built from locally quarried stone, its massive walls glow a warm golden hue under the Rajasthani sun. Arched gateways lead into sunlit courtyards; carved wooden doors open into rooms with high ceilings and jaalis (stone lattice windows) that filter in the breeze while keeping out the desert glare.

Seven Palace Wings

Over the centuries, Neemrana grew organically. New rulers added fresh sections, each with its own charm:

• The Hill Palace – The oldest section, with thick defensive walls and commanding views.
• Maharaja Wing – Lavish suites with private balconies and frescoed interiors.
• Rani Mahal – More intimate spaces with ornate jharokhas and floral motifs.
• Hanging Gardens & Stepwell – Multi-tiered terraces draped in bougainvillea.
• Swimming Pools – Two infinity-style pools that merge with the horizon.
• Amphitheatre – Open-air space for cultural evenings and performances.
• Conference & Event Spaces – Modern additions hidden within the fort’s old bones.

Labyrinth of Passageways

Don’t expect neat, straight hallways here – Neemrana’s staircases often lead to unexpected destinations. Some open onto a quiet terrace with nothing but the rustle of peacocks below, while others descend into cool, shaded courtyards. The irregular design wasn’t just aesthetic — it also served a defensive purpose, confusing invaders and slowing them down.

Details That Tell Stories

From faded frescoes to antique swings, every corner feels like a page out of history. Thick wooden beams, vintage furniture, and brass lamps sit comfortably alongside modern comforts like air conditioning and ensuite bathrooms. The architects of the restoration made sure that the fort’s imperfections — the slightly uneven floors, the weathered stone — were preserved to keep its character alive.

Transformation into a Heritage Hotel

When Aman Nath and Francis Wacziarg first laid eyes on Neemrana Fort in 1986, it wasn’t the postcard-perfect getaway we know today.
It was a ruin.

The walls were crumbling, entire sections had collapsed, and nature had claimed many of the terraces. Villagers used the fort as a shortcut between fields. Peacocks strutted freely through the abandoned courtyards, and bats made their homes in the vaulted ceilings. The old royal grandeur was buried under decades of neglect.

The Vision

Most developers would have bulldozed the place or turned it into a museum. Nath and Wacziarg saw something different – a chance to create India’s first “non-hotel” hotel, where guests could live in history rather than just look at it.

Their goal was not to restore the fort to shiny newness, but to freeze it in time – keeping its scars, patina, and age-worn beauty intact. Instead of uniform rooms, each chamber would be unique, named after historical figures or places, decorated with antique furniture, and positioned to make the most of the fort’s views.

The Restoration Journey

The process took four years before the first set of rooms opened in 1991.

• Local Craftsmanship – Artisans from Rajasthan worked stone-by-stone to repair broken arches, jaalis, and frescoes using traditional methods.
• Sustainable Practices – Instead of importing materials, they used local stone and reclaimed wood to match the original structure.
• Creative Adaptation – Modern necessities like bathrooms, electricity, and air conditioning were added without altering the fort’s historic character.
• Gradual Expansion – Restoration continued over decades, with new palace wings and terraces being revived in phases.

The Birth of Heritage Tourism in India

Neemrana Fort Palace became a pioneer – proof that abandoned historical properties could be reborn as viable tourism ventures without erasing their soul. It set the tone for dozens of similar projects across India, inspiring a wave of heritage hotels from Rajasthan to Kerala.

Today, the property is run by the Neemrana Hotels group, which manages over 20 heritage hotels across the country. But Neemrana Fort Palace remains their crown jewel – the project that started it all.

Accommodation & Stay Experience

A stay at Neemrana Fort Palace isn’t just about having a room with a view — it’s about living inside a 15th-century fort, where every creak of the floor and every gust of wind feels like it carries a story.

Rooms That Aren’t Just Rooms

Neemrana doesn’t believe in cookie-cutter suites. Instead, each of its 70+ rooms and suites is individually named and styled – some after Rajput rulers, others after poets, queens, or even historical places.

• Rajkumari Suite – Regal, with a canopied bed, arched windows, and a private terrace.
• Maharaja Suite – Sprawling, with antique furniture, hand-painted walls, and panoramic views.
• Baithak Rooms – More intimate, perfect for couples seeking quiet corners.
• Family Residences – Multi-room options tucked into different palace wings.

Every room feels imperfect in the best way – uneven stone floors, arched doorways, and antique wardrobes make you feel like a guest in a royal household rather than a modern hotel.

Modern Comforts in an Ancient Setting

Despite its heritage feel, you won’t be roughing it:

• Air conditioning (a blessing in Rajasthani summers)
• Ensuite bathrooms with running hot water
• Wi-Fi in common areas
• Room service and housekeeping
• Comfortable bedding blending vintage charm with modern coziness

Dining Like Royalty

Meals at Neemrana are an experience in themselves. The in-house restaurants offer a mix of Rajasthani specialties – think laal maas, gatte ki sabzi, and bajra roti – alongside Indian and Continental dishes. The real magic, though, is dining on a terrace at sunset while the Aravalli hills fade into twilight.

Beyond the Room

Guests can explore the fort’s 14 levels of courtyards, gardens, and rooftop terraces. There are also two swimming pools (including an infinity pool that seems to spill into the horizon), a spa for Ayurvedic treatments, and even an amphitheatre for evening performances.

Many visitors say they book a stay here not to sightsee elsewhere, but to simply enjoy the fort itself – waking up to the sound of peacocks, sipping chai in a jharokha, and watching history unfold outside their window.

Neemrana Fort Palace – Timings & Entry Fee

If you’re planning your visit, knowing the Neemrana Fort Palace timings and charges in advance will save you a lot of last-minute hassle. The fort operates with slightly different rules for day visitors and staying guests, so here’s a clear breakdown:

Visitor Type	Weekday Timings	Weekend Timings	Entry Fee (per person)	Inclusions
Day Visitors	9:00 AM – 3:00 PM	9:00 AM – 3:00 PM	₹2,000 (weekdays)	Fort entry + lunch buffet at the Neemrana Fort Palace restaurant
			₹2,500 (weekends)
Staying Guests	24 hours (check-in/out as per booking)	24 hours	As per room tariff	Full access to all common areas, pools, and paid activities

Last Entry Rule: For day visitors, the last entry is at 2:00 PM – after that, you’ll have to be a staying guest to explore the fort.

Booking Tip: To avoid disappointment (especially on weekends), it’s best to do your Neemrana Fort Palace booking online via the official website or verified OTAs.

Location: The fort is located right on the Delhi-Jaipur Highway (NH48), around 122 km from Delhi – roughly a 2-hour drive, depending on traffic. Many travelers plan it as a quick weekend getaway from Delhi.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re just looking to explore, the day package is enough. But if you want the royal treatment (and no rush to leave by 3 PM), book a stay and enjoy evening lights, cultural shows, and a quieter fort after tourist hours.

Neemrana Fort Palace – Booking & Contact Information

If you’ve decided to visit, booking in advance is the smartest move – especially during weekends, wedding season, or long holidays when Neemrana is packed with tourists.

Booking Options

1. Official Website – The safest way is to book directly at neemranahotels.com.
   • Best for securing specific rooms or suites (each one is unique and often booked months ahead).
   • Direct bookings sometimes include perks like free breakfast or early check-in.
2. Trusted OTAs – Sites like MakeMyTrip, Booking.com, and Agoda often offer discounted rates – handy if you’re comparing prices.
3. Tripadvisor Reviews – Before booking, many travelers check Neemrana Fort Palace Tripadvisor ratings to see recent guest experiences.

Contact Details

• Neemrana Fort Palace Contact Number: 📞 +91 1494 246 006 / +91 11 4666 1666
• Email: reservations@neemranahotels.com
• Address: 15th Century, Delhi–Jaipur Highway, 122nd Milestone, Neemrana, Rajasthan 301705

Booking Tips

• Weekends vs Weekdays: If you want peace and quiet, aim for weekdays. Weekends get busier and rates are slightly higher.
• Wedding Season: November to February sees a surge in Neemrana Fort Palace wedding bookings – prices shoot up, so book early.
• Special Requests: Since rooms are individually styled, you can request specific décor themes (heritage suites, Mughal-era interiors, etc.).

💡 Insider Tip: Call the hotel directly before booking online. Sometimes they match OTA rates and throw in extras like spa vouchers or room upgrades.

Weddings & Events at Neemrana Fort Palace

If palaces could talk, Neemrana Fort Palace would have endless love stories to tell – from celebrity nuptials to grand destination weddings that feel straight out of a period film. Perched dramatically on the Delhi-Jaipur Highway, it blends Rajput grandeur, Mughal elegance, and the thrill of celebrating in a 15th-century fort.

Why Neemrana is a Wedding Favorite

• Close to Delhi – Just ~2 hours away, making it accessible for guests flying into IGI Airport.
• Authentic Heritage Ambience – The fort is not a “set” or imitation; it’s real history in stone, restored to glory.
• Multiple Venues in One – From lush lawns to candlelit courtyards, you can hold different functions in different atmospheres without changing locations.
• Exclusive Experience – You can book the entire fort for your wedding, turning it into your private royal residence for 2-3 days.

Venues & Capacities

Neemrana Fort Palace spans 14 tiers and 6 acres, giving you multiple settings:

Venue	Setting	Capacity
Amphitheatre	Open-air with fort walls as backdrop	200 guests
Uncha Bagh	Garden terrace with panoramic views	250 guests
Hawa Mahal Courtyard	Intimate courtyard for mehendi/sangeet	100 guests
Jharokha Terraces	Scenic smaller terraces for cocktails	50–75 guests
Indoor Banquet Hall	Climate-controlled hall for dining	150 guests

Wedding Packages & Costs

Neemrana does not follow a “one-size-fits-all” wedding package – pricing depends on season, venue usage, catering choices, and whether you book the entire property. However, here’s a realistic range based on current market rates and past client experiences:

Venue Rental

• Partial venue booking: ₹4–7 lakh/day (select courtyards or lawns)
• Full fort booking: ₹15–20 lakh/day (exclusive access to all rooms and venues)

Accommodation

• 76 heritage rooms & suites
• Rates range from ₹7,000 – ₹20,000 per night (per room) depending on size & décor.
• Full buyout: Approx. ₹10–12 lakh per night for all rooms.

Catering

• Per plate cost: ₹2,200 – ₹4,500 (veg/non-veg options, multi-cuisine available)
• Special Rajasthani spreads can be arranged.
• Alcohol: BYOB possible with corkage charges, or hotel can supply.

Events You Can Host

• Destination Weddings – Complete with royal processions, live folk music, and heritage photo spots.
• Engagements & Receptions – Perfect for a grand yet intimate vibe.
• Corporate Events – Conferences, product launches, and team retreats get a “wow” factor.
• Anniversaries & Milestone Birthdays – Sunset cocktails, live ghazals, and starlit dinners.

Celebrity Weddings & Notable Events

• Several high-profile weddings and luxury brand events have taken place here, though the hotel often keeps details private to respect client confidentiality.
• Fashion shoots for Vogue India and Harper’s Bazaar have used its courtyards and terraces as backdrops.

Insider Wedding Planning Tips

1. Book 9-12 months in advance if your wedding is between November–February.
2. Visit in person before finalizing – the fort is massive, and seeing the spaces helps you visualize the flow of events.
3. Lighting is key – the fort looks magical under warm yellow lighting; factor in décor costs for maximum effect.
4. Check sound restrictions – loud music has to end by 10 PM outdoors, so plan your sangeet accordingly.
5. Weather watch – winter evenings get chilly; arrange shawls or heaters for guests if your events are outdoors.

Neemrana Fort Palace vs Tijara Fort Palace – The Royal Face-Off

Both Neemrana Fort and Tijara Fort are under the same management (Neemrana Hotels) and share that blend of history, architecture, and heritage hospitality. But they’re like royal cousins — related, yet totally different in personality.

The Quick Snapshot

Feature	Neemrana Fort Palace	Tijara Fort Palace
Built in	1464 AD (Rajput stronghold)	Construction began in 1835 (left incomplete, restored later)
Style	Medieval Rajput-Mughal fusion	19th-century palace-meets-garden layout
Location	122 km from Delhi, on Delhi-Jaipur Highway	100 km from Delhi, Alwar district
Ambience	Rustic, dramatic, multi-tiered fort with winding alleys	More open, airy, romantic – with sprawling gardens
Best for	Big fat weddings, adventure + history lovers	Couples, intimate weddings, art & photography lovers

Vibe & Atmosphere

• Neemrana Fort Palace feels like stepping into an action sequence from a Rajput war epic – stone walls, maze-like corridors, turrets, and dramatic cliffside views. Great for people who want that “fort conquering the hill” look.
• Tijara Fort Palace is more “palatial serenity” – wide lawns, open courtyards, pastel interiors, and a stronger sense of calm. Think royal picnics and romantic evenings rather than dramatic entrances.

Rooms & Decor

• Neemrana: 76 rooms, each with unique antique decor, some with jharokhas, others with arched stone walls. You feel the medieval vibe immediately.
• Tijara: 71 rooms, but with a brighter, more artistic touch. Many rooms are named after the artists who designed them – lots of color, murals, and softer furnishings.

Food Experience

• Neemrana: Indian, Continental, and Rajasthani feasts – perfect if you want variety for large gatherings.
• Tijara: Similar menu range but with slightly more focus on farm-to-table freshness. Tijara’s location allows for more garden-side dining experiences.

Weddings & Events

• Neemrana: Better for large-scale weddings (200–300 guests) with multiple venues in different tiers. Offers more dramatic photo opportunities for processions and ceremonies.
• Tijara: Ideal for intimate weddings (100–150 guests) where you want the whole property to feel like a giant romantic garden party.

💡 Wedding Tip: Tijara is often slightly cheaper for buyouts than Neemrana, and you might get better weather conditions because it’s less perched and more open.

Activities

• Neemrana: Ziplining, camel rides, cultural performances, heritage walks.
• Tijara: Yoga, meditation retreats, pottery workshops, heritage walks in the gardens.

Which Should You Choose?

• Choose Neemrana Fort Palace if you want:
  • A grand, warrior-king vibe
  • Adventure activities + historic drama
  • Big weddings or large group stays
• Choose Tijara Fort Palace if you want:
  • Softer, garden-filled romantic feel
  • Smaller guest list & more privacy
  • Artistic decor and serene open spaces

How to Reach Neemrana Fort Palace – Your Travel Game Plan

The beauty of Neemrana is that you don’t need a week of planning, a dozen train bookings, or a sherpa to get there. It’s just about 2 hours from Delhi (on a good traffic day) and pretty much sits right along the Delhi-Jaipur Highway (NH48).

By Road (Most Popular Option)

Honestly, the road trip is half the fun.

• From Delhi: Hop onto NH48, and it’s a straight shot. 122 km – think of it as a long podcast episode plus a tea break.
• From Jaipur: Reverse the route – about 150 km, 2.5-3 hours.
• Travel Tip: Early mornings are golden – cool breeze, empty roads, and you reach just in time for the buffet lunch.

By Train

There’s no direct train to Neemrana itself – the nearest stations are:

• Rewari Junction (38 km away)
• Alwar Junction (70 km away)

From there, you can grab a cab. But honestly, unless you’re a hardcore train lover, driving is smoother.

By Air

If you’re flying in:

• Delhi Airport (IGI) – 105 km away
• Jaipur Airport – 148 km away

From the airport, book a cab/Uber or arrange a pickup with the hotel (they do offer it, but it’s pricier).

Pro-Tip Routes

• If you’re coming from Delhi NCR, avoid leaving after 9 AM on weekends – you’ll get stuck in “Jaipur Highway Wedding Procession” traffic (trust me, it’s a thing).
• For bikers, Neemrana makes for an amazing breakfast ride. Many Delhi biker clubs do Sunday morning runs here.

📍 Map it Out

The easiest? Just type Neemrana Fort Palace on Google Maps – it’s a landmark, so no messy “turn left after the banyan tree” instructions.

Best Time to Visit Neemrana Fort Palace – When the Fort Feels Like a Fairytale, Not a Furnace

Neemrana has charm year-round, but Rajasthan weather plays its own game. Pick your timing right, and you’ll get all the royal magic without the royal sweat.

🌸 Winter Wonderland (October – March)

• Why It’s Perfect: Pleasant days (18°C–25°C), cool evenings — you can roam every terrace without thinking about shade every 10 minutes.
• What’s Special:
  • Zipline rides feel crisp and refreshing.
  • Perfect for heritage weddings and photo shoots.
  • Evenings lit with fairy lights + winter breeze = chef’s kiss.
• Events to Catch: Many cultural evenings, Christmas celebrations, and New Year’s Gala at the fort.

🌞 The Fiery Season (April – June)

• Reality Check: Daytime temps can shoot past 40°C. Unless you really love summer, it’s tough to explore fully.
• Upside:
  • Lower room tariffs.
  • Lesser crowds = you’ll have courtyards almost to yourself.
• Tip: Stick to early mornings and post-6 PM outings if you visit in summer.

🌧 Monsoon Magic (July – September)

• Why It’s Unique: The Aravallis turn lush green, rain clouds hover dramatically over the fort, and the air smells like wet stone and earth.
• Watch Out For:
  • Ziplines may close during heavy rain for safety.
  • Slippery steps — so pack non-slip footwear.

📌 Verdict:

If you’re a first-timer, December to February is the dream season. Think sweater weather, crisp sunlight, and warm chai with those panoramic fort views.

Nearby Attractions – Make Your Neemrana Trip a Full Rajasthan Platter

A lot of people do a day trip to Neemrana Fort and head straight back to Delhi. Big mistake. Huge.
There’s a bunch of places within a short drive that can turn your quick getaway into a full weekend itinerary.

1. Neemrana Baori (Stepwell)

• Distance: 2 km from the fort.
• Why Visit: A massive 9-storey-deep stepwell dating back to the same Rajput era. Its geometric beauty makes it a photographer’s dream.
• Tip: Early morning visit = fewer people, softer light for pictures.

2. Sariska National Park

• Distance: ~90 km (about 2 hours by road).
• Highlights:
  • Bengal tigers, leopards, and sambar deer.
  • Ancient Pandupol Hanuman temple inside the park.
• Best Time: October–March for wildlife spotting.

3. Alwar City & Bala Qila

• Distance: ~72 km.
• Why Go: Alwar has the grandeur of Rajasthan’s heritage without Jaipur’s heavy tourist crowd. Bala Qila offers sweeping Aravalli views.
• Don’t Miss: Alwar’s local milk cake (kalakand).

4. Siliserh Lake Palace

• Distance: ~86 km.
• Vibe: Romantic lakeside spot built by Alwar Maharaja in 1845. Now a heritage hotel – great for a lunch stop or boating session.

5. Kesroli Hill Fort

• Distance: ~110 km.
• Why Visit: Another 14th-century heritage hotel by Neemrana Hotels group. Perfect for a quieter fort experience.

6. Tijara Fort Palace

• Distance: ~55 km from Neemrana.
• Highlight: Also restored by the same Neemrana group. Known for its unfinished historical sections and unique Rajasthani-Mughal fusion design.
• Insider Tip: Better suited for weddings and leisure stays than quick sightseeing.

📌 Pro Tip for Travelers:
If you’re staying two nights at Neemrana Fort Palace, you can easily plan a day trip covering Neemrana Baori in the morning, then Alwar & Siliserh Lake in the afternoon. For wildlife lovers, swap that for Sariska.

Travel Tips for Visiting Neemrana Fort Palace

1. Photography Guidelines

• Photography is allowed in most public areas of the fort.
• Professional shoots (weddings, fashion, etc.) require prior permission and may incur additional charges.
• Tripods and drones are generally not permitted without authorization from the management.
• Early morning and late afternoon provide the best natural light for capturing the fort’s architecture.

2. Accessibility

• Neemrana Fort Palace is built on multiple levels connected by steep steps and pathways.
• There are no elevators due to heritage conservation regulations.
• Not suitable for visitors with significant mobility restrictions.
• Comfortable, non-slip footwear is essential for navigating uneven surfaces.

3. Dress Code & Etiquette

• While there is no strict dress code, modest clothing is advisable, especially in public and dining areas.
• Avoid high heels due to the fort’s cobblestone paths and staircases.
• During cultural performances, maintain decorum and avoid interrupting artists mid-performance.

4. Weather Considerations

• Summer (April–June): Very hot, temperatures can exceed 40°C. Carry sun protection and stay hydrated.
• Monsoon (July–September): Scenic greenery, but occasional travel delays due to rain. Some outdoor activities may be suspended.
• Winter (October–March): Most pleasant season, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

5. Dining

• Outside food and beverages are not permitted.
• The in-house restaurants serve Indian and Continental cuisine; buffet options are available for day visitors.
• Advance booking is recommended for lunch packages to avoid peak-hour delays.

6. Zipline & Activities

• Zipline is operated by an independent adventure company; booking can be done on-site or in advance.
• Wear secure, closed footwear for all adventure activities.
• Weight and age restrictions may apply; confirm with the operator before booking.

7. Safety & Security

• The property is under 24-hour surveillance; however, guests should keep valuables locked in room safes.
• Children must be supervised, especially near terraces, stepwells, and swimming pools.

8. Payment & Connectivity

• Credit/debit cards are accepted, though carrying some cash is advisable for tips and small vendors nearby.
• Mobile network is generally stable, but certain areas inside the fort may have weak signal.

Fun Facts & Trivia about Neemrana Fort Palace

1. Historical Legacy

• Neemrana Fort was built in 1464 AD by the descendants of Prithviraj Chauhan III, one of the last Hindu kings to rule Delhi before the Mughal era.
• The fort’s location was chosen for its strategic vantage point along the Delhi-Ajmer trade route.

2. Abandonment & Revival

• By the mid-20th century, the fort was abandoned and lay in ruins for nearly 40 years.
• In 1986, it was purchased by Aman Nath and Francis Wacziarg, who initiated a painstaking restoration while preserving much of its original structure.
• This restoration set a precedent for heritage hotel conversions across India.

3. India’s First Heritage Hotel

• Neemrana Fort Palace became operational as India’s first heritage hotel in 1991.
• The model of adaptive reuse pioneered here inspired similar projects in Rajasthan and beyond.

4. Bollywood & International Shoots

• The fort has served as a location for multiple film and TV shoots, including Indian period dramas and international documentaries.
• Fashion and luxury brand campaigns have used Neemrana’s terraces and courtyards for high-profile photoshoots.

5. Cultural Significance

• The fort regularly hosts Sufi music nights, cultural dance performances, and heritage festivals.
• Many of these events are designed to promote Rajasthani folk art and craft traditions.

6. Celebrity Visitors

• Neemrana Fort Palace has hosted Indian and foreign dignitaries, Bollywood actors, business leaders, and foreign royalty.
• Names are often kept confidential at the guests’ request, but the venue is widely known as a preferred private retreat for high-profile visitors.

7. Ghost Stories & Legends

• Local folklore speaks of unexplained occurrences in the fort’s older sections, though there is no documented evidence.
• Stories of secret tunnels and hidden chambers add to the fort’s mystique.

8. Unique Architectural Feature

• Neemrana Fort Palace is spread across 14 different levels and 7 palace wings, making it one of the most vertically structured forts in India.
• It incorporates stepwells, rooftop gardens, and terraced courtyards – an unusual combination in Rajput architecture.

FAQs – Neemrana Fort Palace

💍 Neemrana Fort Palace Wedding Cost Breakdown (Estimated)

Cost Component	Low Range	High Range	Notes
Room Buyout (2 Nights)	₹12 lakh	₹25 lakh	70–75 rooms, heritage suites, compulsory for large weddings
Venue Rental	₹3 lakh	₹6 lakh	Includes lawns, terraces, banquet halls
Catering (Per Plate)	₹2,200	₹4,000	Veg & Non-Veg; buffet or plated service
Décor & Setup	₹4 lakh	₹15 lakh	Theme décor, floral arrangements, lighting
Entertainment	₹2 lakh	₹8 lakh	Folk dance, live music, DJs, celebrity acts
Other Costs	₹1 lakh	₹3 lakh	Photography, makeup, guest transport
Total Estimated Cost	₹20 lakh	₹60 lakh+	Varies with scale, season & guest count