Here’s an honest review of the popular hilltop fort hotel in Alwar, known as Dadhikar Fort. I’ll share everything we experienced during our stay and whether it’s worth visiting. So, read this blog post till the end! And if you’re not a fan of reading, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with a YouTube video where I detail our entire stay.
Alwar was one of my first trips this year—a road trip that I will always cherish. My mom had always wanted to stay in a palace hotel, and with its close proximity to Delhi, this spot made for an ideal weekend getaway.
We stayed at Dadhikar Fort, a stunning hilltop heritage hotel nestled amidst the majestic Aravalli range in Alwar, Rajasthan. This beautifully restored 9th-century fort blends rich history with modern comforts, offering a truly unique escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Reaching Dadhikar Fort from Delhi
Dadhikar Fort is located in the suburbs of Alwar, far from the city’s chaos. The closest railway station to the fort is Alwar Junction, and taxi services are available to reach the property. However, if you’re staying in the Delhi NCR region, driving is the best way to get to Dadhikar Fort.
It was an easy 3.5-hour drive through the picturesque countryside of Rajasthan. We started our road trip on a beautiful Saturday morning from Dwarka (Delhi), taking NH-8. The drive was delightful, offering rolling countryside views and stretches of peaceful roads that tempted us to roll down the windows, let the breeze flow through, and soak in Rajasthan’s natural charm. The final stretch, as we entered the village road to Dadhikar Fort, was a bit bumpy and unpaved in several spots. But overall, it was a smooth and enjoyable ride.
First Impressions and Arrival
The first word that came out of our mouths in unison was, “Wow.” It was a new experience for all three of us, and we were absolutely thrilled to see the stunning façade of the fort nestled against the rustic backdrop of the Aravallis.
We parked our car in the designated space near the lobby entrance and made our way inside. The moment we stepped into the premises, it felt like we had traveled back in time to an era of royalty. The staff welcomed us warmly in traditional style and offered refreshing welcome drinks, setting the perfect tone for a relaxing weekend ahead.
Our room
Dadhikar Fort has 18 rooms that have not been changed much from its original structure, making every room design unique. Each room has a name inspired by a garden. We stayed in KALANJAR that was great for three people. It had a large double bed and a single bed. The room decor was a perfect blend of traditional Rajasthani decor and modern amenities. Think stone walls, wooden furniture, and antique elements that reflect the fort’s rich heritage while ensuring a comfortable stay.
The room opened to a cozy patio with manjis and a courtyard with intricate arches and greenery, bringing out its historical charm. It was THE perfect spot to relax and soak in the tranquil vibes.
Dining Experience
Our booking included three meals: lunch, high tea, and breakfast. For lunch, we indulged in the buffet at the Sudharma Sabha restaurant. The spread was a foodie’s delight, featuring a variety of Rajasthani and North Indian dishes to suit every palate. Each dish was delicious and packed with flavor. We were so full afterward that we had to take a short nap before heading to the evening high tea session.
The Evening High Tea was served in the outdoor courtyard restaurant, featuring chai and pakoras on the menu. We enjoyed our tea and snacks on the terrace while watching the sun dip behind the Aravalli hills. The sunset view was simply breathtaking and added to the charm of the experience.
Breakfast was also served in the outdoor courtyard restaurant, offering a delicious spread that included both Indian and continental items. We loved everything, especially the poori sabzi and namkeen seviyan, which were light yet hearty. Breakfast amidst nature, accompanied by the stunning Aravalli views and the cheerful chirping of Treepies, was the perfect start to our day.
Cultural Show
The main highlight of our trip was the evening cultural show, which truly brought the fort to life. The program featured mesmerizing local folk music and lively dance performances by talented artists. We had an absolute blast—from being showered with flowers to grooving to traditional Rajasthani folk songs. It was a delightful and immersive way to connect with the vibrant culture of Rajasthan.
Other highlights of our stay
One of the most magical moments of our stay was watching the sunset from the fort’s terrace. The view was absolutely stunning and left us in awe.
Another highlight was strolling through the fort compound at night. The warm lighting beautifully accentuated the stone architecture, creating a surreal and enchanting ambiance.
Lastly, our early morning walk around the fort was another memorable highlight of our trip. This allowed us to savor the slow pace of life, surrounded by nature from dancing peacocks to villagers leading their cows to graze. The serene atmosphere made waking up early entirely worthwhile.
Dadhikar Fort History in a Nutshell
Dadhikar Fort is believed to be over 1,100 years old, built during the 9th or 10th centuries by descendants of King Chand. After a devastating flood forced them to abandon their capital, Abha Nagari, the family settled in this region. They named the area Derakar, where “dera” meant a camp. Over time, the name evolved into Dadhikar.
The family later moved to Nikumbh Mahal (Bala Qila), and Dadhikar Fort became a significant military base. Today, it stands as a proud symbol of Rajasthan’s heritage, blending its historical significance with modern comforts for travelers. Traces of the fort’s history can even be found in the folk song:
“Saher Dadhikar Pargana, Alwar Garh ke pass, Basti Raja Chand ki, Abhaner Nikas.”
Do I recommend it?
Absolutely! Considering the distance from Delhi NCR and the exceptional hospitality, Dadhikar Fort is a must-visit destination in Alwar. It’s especially perfect if you’re looking for a relaxing yet adventurous getaway.
We paid ₹9,000 for three people for a night, which I believe is a great deal for such a remarkable heritage property. The price includes meals and cultural shows, making it excellent value for money.
But wait, our adventure didn’t end here! Stay tuned for Day 2 of our trip, where we explore the historic Bala Qila Fort in Sariska National Park and uncover more gems in Alwar city.
Until then, let Dadhikar Fort inspire your next road trip adventure in Rajasthan.
Happy travels!
