Nahar Singh Mahal

Nahar Singh Mahal, also known as Raja Nahar Singh Palace, is a historic fort situated in Ballabhgarh within the Faridabad district of Haryana, India. Originally constructed by the ancestors of Raja Nahar Singh around 1739 AD, the complex saw continued development in various phases until approximately 1850. The structure is named after the prominent ruler Raja Nahar Singh Tewatia, who played a significant role in the region's history. Architecturally, the palace is a double-storeyed sandstone edifice characterized by elaborate cupolas, minarets, and a vast central courtyard. Key features include a Darbar-e-aam or Hall of Public Audience, a Rang Mahal adorned with a beautiful Chhatri, and six tastefully decorated guest rooms that retain a royal ambiance. Although the fort originally featured minars on all four corners, only two remain visible today due to the effects of age and historical neglect.

The site holds considerable historical significance and has undergone extensive restoration to preserve its heritage value. The Government of Haryana entrusted the conservation project to renowned specialists Francis Wacziarg and Aman Nath, the founders of Neemrana Hotels and key figures in Indian heritage conservation. Today, the palace serves as a heritage property managed by Haryana Tourism, having been successfully renovated into a motel and restaurant. This transformation has revived the building as an outstanding specimen of architectural design while making it accessible to modern visitors. Beyond its function as a hospitality venue, the mahalan hosts the annual Kartik Cultural Festival every November. Established in 1996, this major fair celebrates local culture during the auspicious month of Kartik according to the Vikram Samvat calendar, drawing tourists and locals alike to the historic grounds.