Climb to Samode fort at sunset
Above the palace, a small fort sits on the ridge, once the first defence of Samode. Stone steps climb to it from behind the palace, steep in places, taking about 20–30 minutes at a steady pace. Langurs and peacocks are often around, and the path is quiet in the evening.
From the top, you look down on the palace's courtyards and domes, the village roofs and the farmland spreading into the hills. As the sun sets, the light turns the palace pink and gold, and the evening sounds of the village rise up. It is the best view in Samode.
We go with a guide from the palace, carry water and torches for the walk down, and return in time for a drink before dinner. Wear shoes with grip, as the steps are uneven. Guests who prefer not to climb can watch the sunset from the palace terraces instead.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
How long is the climb to Samode fort
About 20–30 minutes up stone steps at a steady pace, longer if you stop for views. The steps are steep in places. Allow about 1.5 hours in total, including time at the top. Go in the last hour before sunset. We walk with a guide from the palace, carry water and torches for the way down, and return in time for a drink before dinner. Wear shoes with grip.
Is the Samode fort climb suitable for children
For children who are comfortable with steps and can follow instructions, yes. Keep them close on the uneven path, especially on the way down in fading light. Bring torches. The climb takes about 20–30 minutes, and langurs and peacocks are often seen along the path. We go with a guide from the palace and carry water. Children who prefer not to climb can watch the sunset from the palace terraces.
Is there an alternative to climbing to the fort
Yes. The palace terraces give good sunset views over the village and hills without a climb. Ask the hotel for the best terrace on the evening of your stay. From the terraces, the late light falls across the village roofs and the Aravalli ridges. We arrange a drink there at sunset. The fort view is wider, but the terraces avoid 20–30 minutes of uneven steps.
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