Alwar is perhaps the oldest of the Rajasthani kingdoms, forming part of the Matsya territories of Viratnagar in 1500 BC. It became known again in the 18th century under Pratap Singh, who pushed back the rulers of Jaipur to the south and the Jats of Bharatpur to the east, and who successfully resisted the Marathas. It was one of the first Rajput states to ally itself with the fledgling British empire, although British interference in Alwar’s internal affairs meant this partnership was not always amicable. Alwar is the nearest town to Sariska Tiger Reserve & National Park and has a fascinating museum and interesting fort.

Siliserh Lake was built in 1845 A.D. by constructing an earthern dam between two hills to store the water of a small tributary of river Ruparel. When full, the total water spread covers an area of about 10 sq kms. Adorned with domed cenotaphs, Siliserh Lake is picturesquely set amidst the forested slopes of Aravalli hills. Ram Bihari Palace overlooks the river Siliserh.