Nalagarh is the gateway to Himachal Pradesh plains of India. Located about 60km from Chandigarh and 135kms before Shimla, it was a part of the Hindu state that came into being with Raja Ajai Chand (1100-1171 AD). The town itself was founded in the 15th century under Raja Bikram Chand (ruled 1421-35) and became the capital of the state. It was ruled by the Chandela Rajputs who originated from Chanderi in the Bundelkhand region of Central India. The Hindur used to be an important state in the confederacy of the Shimla hill states and bore the brunt of many a battle.
Nalagarh is known for its Fort built in 1421 during the reign of Raja Bikram Chand, which is also the major landmark of the area. The Fort is located on a hillock at the foothills of the Himalayas has now been converted into a heritage hotel, an ideal retreat away from the madding crowd. It stands above an estate of forests and orchards. In fact, it is built lavishly and strategically on five levels around manicured grassy courts. The fort offers splendid views of the Shivalik Hills beyond the Sirsa River with the Naina Devi Temple visible on a clear day. The present Raja has opened his home to guests and the once sacrosanct Diwan-i-Khas now serves as a banquet hall of the hotel.
