Once the abode of royalty, Mudfort in Kuchesar has opened its gates to visitors and is bringing history alive. Located off the Delhi-Hapur highway, the rugged Mudfort is secretly tucked away amid the mango orchards and sugarcane fields in the village Kuchesar. A long and narrow road leads you to the distinctive archway of the fort.
The archway is guarded by seven massive turrets. Revived by descendents who still live at one corner of the fort, the age-old customs and traditions followed at this Jat citadel entice travellers to share a part of history.Once inside the magnificent fort, expect cold verandahs, rooms with high-ceilings, antique furniture, a few period pieces and black-and-white family portraits. The caretaker of the fort led us to our room through the verandahs adorned with late Mughal style architecture, think carved jharokas and central fountains. The room was named after one of the ancestors. The room with the high ceiling was cool enough for us to fall asleep as soon as we hit the bed. In the evening, every nook and cranny of the fort was glinting. There is not much to do during the evenings. Settle down with a book or admire the sunset and peacocks perched on the rooftops.
Dinner was a delicious spread complete with creamy dal, spicy chicken curry, raita, a variety of pickles and salad served at the common dining hall known as, Diwan Mahal. The meals here are cooked by the family maharaj who serves the same meals to family and guests both. In the morning we woke up to the temple bells and went straight to the rooftop. From the rooftop you can watch the village coming to life, a woman lighting up the stove to prepare her morning tea, a dressed up school boy walking the winding roads in hurry. By day, we went for a walk in the mango orchards and sugarcane fields. The staff insisted on arranging a bullock ride but we turned down their offer. We don’t want to hurt animals! During our walk, the villagers guided us to ancient temples, havelis and entertained us by recounting the legends embedded in every temple and haveli. We stopped by a jiggery mill to taste some freshly made gur and bought a few kilos to take back home. You can also ask the staff to arrange a pottery calls to muck around for joy. They will happily oblige. Even if you aren’t adept at potter’s wheel, you can just watch the clay slithering and sliding into shape on the wheel. And when you try it with your own hands, we say, it’s totally addictive. We suggest you visit this Jat citadel only if you are willing to experience history.