Bala Qila Fort

Rajasthan


The fort of Bala Qila was founded in 1737, but today its modern additions largely obscure the original building, and it houses a fruit-and-vegetable market and a bank.

The Sheesh Mahal in the southeastern quarter of the fort is one room that retains mirrorwork and beautiful paintings on its ceiling, depicting map-like street scenes of both Jaipur and Nawalgarh from the mid-19th century. The grand but rather spooky room was once the dressing room of the maharani of Nawalgarh. To find it, climb a small staircase in the southeastern corner of the fort to the 2nd floor. The room is hidden behind a sweet shop, where you will be asked for ₹20 or ₹30 to be allowed through.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Rajasthan attractions

1. Chhauchharia Haveli

0.15 MILES

A short distance south of Bala Qila Fort are a number of interesting buildings, including the Chhauchharia Haveli, behind Jangit Hospital, with paintings…

2. Nansa Gate

0.15 MILES

One of the Old Town's many pols (gates).

3. Baori Gate

0.15 MILES

One of the Old Town's many pols (gates).

4. Bhagton ki Choti Haveli

0.18 MILES

Under the eaves on the external western wall of Bhagton ki Choti Haveli is a locomotive and a steamship. Above them, elephant-bodied gopis (milkmaids)…

5. Aath Havelis

0.19 MILES

To the southwest of Bala Qila Fort is a group of six havelis (traditional, ornately decorated residences), known as the Aath Havelis, erected around 1900…

6. Morarka Haveli Museum

0.2 MILES

This museum has well-presented original paintings, preserved for decades behind doorways blocked with cement, plus there is ongoing restoration. The inner…

7. Geevrajka Haveli

0.21 MILES

Look for Hindu deities painted on the ceiling of the entrance vestibule.

8. Dr Ramnath A Podar Haveli Museum

0.22 MILES

Built in 1902 on the eastern side of town, and known locally as 'Podar Haveli', this is one of the region’s few buildings to have been thoroughly restored…