A Day Visit to Neemrana Fort Palace!

Come Sunday I kept hoping for a cloudy day! Just my luck it was a bright sunny day with patches of clouds in the sky. Nevertheless determined three friends zipped out of Delhi to the much hyped Neemrana Fort Palace for a day visit.  The entire drive was filled with laughter and great music. Each of us was cracking jokes about everything under the sun be it our workplaces, hobbies, reading lists or driving styles.  The result, before we knew we had crossed the Manesar Toll Plaza.  The landscape moved from 'hilly' to endless plains however it was once we edged into the Shajahanpur area [after paying a toll of Rs. 145 bucks] that the Aravallis came up close.  Know they don't have much height, but have always felt they have a presence which cannot be undermined.  The landscape had left the common residential clutter and had moved to clean shiny industrial sheds with open roads. There was a feeling of having left it all behind.

Just then it was time to return to civilization. After a couple of stops to check if we are on the right track the Yeti cruised along the NH-8 in quiet confidence.  A right turn brought us to Neemrana Fort Palace in the distance. We twisted and turned along the narrow, winding roads of village to reach Neemrana Fort Palace. An impressive entrance door marked the beginning of a breathless climb. At least for the unfit the reception felt like the crow's nest.  However the effort was well worth it after reaching the covered verandah after a sumptuous lunch. Liked the spread of the buffet although the dessert was felt to be wanting.  The best part I felt was their service. The staff was very polite and responsive. Someone was always around to cater to your request.  That felt nice.

A couple of levels up was the covered verandah, figured it was just above the dining area. The view from here was unbroken for miles and miles.  The plains and the horizon were stretched out in front of us.  The many sitouts created made it easy to lounge around and enjoy the view which will stay with me forever.  The fort palace has been obviously expanded from the original structure. However it has been done very aesthetically. The new structure etch out beautifully on the hill.  It would be blissful to just sit in one of the multiple nooks and corners tucked away around the property on a gorgeous rainy day or a warm winter afternoon.

A brief 2 hour stay and I had to pull myself away from Neemrana Fort Palace.  While the palace had a lot of people, the ambiance allowed me to find a corner which felt like mine.  Wonderful place and amazing views, had never believed that plains could enthrall.

No wonder Neemrana is so sought after.  This trip was truly memorable !