Fort Beshangarh

Fort Beshangarh is a (former) fort in Manoharpur, Jaipur district, Rajasthan, India built in the 18th century on a single granite hill. Its history dates back to the Shahpura royalty. Since 2017, it houses a five-star hotel (Alila Hotels and Resorts) providing 59 suites.

History

The Fort Beshangarh was originally built in the mid‑18th century by local Rajput chiefs of the Shahpura lineage as an outpost guarding the approaches to the Amber (Jaipur) kingdom. The fort fell into disuse after the 19th century, its ramparts and gateways succumbing to centuries of neglect, weathering, and wildlife habitation. In December 2016, Alila Hotels & Resorts announced the completion of a seven‑year, ₹200 crore restoration project, undertaken in collaboration with the fort’s private owners. The original two‑metre‑thick stone walls, battlemented turrets and Mughal‑Jaipur Gharana–style jaali windows were retained, while introducing a modern annex above and outside the old fortifications for guest accommodations. The resort opened in 2017 with 59 bespoke suites, ranging from Hill Suites within the old walls to Pavilion Suites in the new wings.

Architecture

The core fortress follows the natural granite contours, with irregular polygonal ramparts pierced by tall, slender bastions. Original features such as carved sandstone lintels, arched portals and narrow gun‑loops—remain intact. New construction adopts local red sandstone and reclaimed lime plaster (surkhi and araish), seamlessly blending modern steel‑and‑glass elements with vintage materials. Suite layouts vary across 22 unique floor plans, each oriented to capture 360° views of the Aravalli hills, village beyond, and the distant Jal Mahal on Man Sagar Lake.

See also

• List of forts in India
• List of hotels: Countries I#India