Nahar Singh Mahal is located atBallabhgarh inFaridabad district ofHaryana.[1][2] This fort was built by the forefathers of RajaNahar Singh around 1739 AD, and after whom Ballabgarh was named, the construction however continued in parts till about 1850. The fort is also known as Raja Nahar Singh Palace.[1][3]
The elaborate cupolas and minarets of this double-storeyed sandstone structure are fashioned around a vast central courtyard. The palace has six tastefully decorated guest rooms, replete with royal ambiance.[2] The fort was decorated with minars on its four corners of which only two can be seen now due to age and neglect. The palace holds aDarbar-e-aam (Hall of Public Audience) and a Rang Mahal decorated with a beautifulChhatri.[3]
Government of Haryana entrusted its restoration to the well-known specialistsFrancis Wacziarg andAman Nath.[3] Aman Nath, a founding member ofINTACH,[4] and his French business partner Francis Wacziarg, are conservationists and the founders ofNeemrana Hotels.[5]
This palace is now a heritage property managed byHaryana Tourism.[2] It has been renovated and converted into a motel-cum-restaurant. The palace has been renewed into an outstanding specimen of architectural design with help of team of experts.[1][2]
Kartik Cultural Festival, the main annual fair held in the month of November since 1996, is celebrated at Nahar Singh Mahal. It is held by theHaryana Tourism, during the bright and auspicious autumn month ofKartik as perVikram Samvat calendar.[6][7][8]
