Kangra Fort
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People ask me what you prefer mountain or beaches.... Lakes or rivers.. summer or winter or rainy season.... Hill tops or plain fields...... I say forts and castles even though a storm is around the corner...... Exploring Himachal Pradesh...... Kangra valley......at Kangra fort......... With Dholadhar ranges in the backdrop and Banganga and Majhi rivers surrounding it..... Kangra Fort, Kangra Overview.... Situated on the outskirts of the town of Kangra, in the state of Himachal Pradesh, the Kangra Fort is witness to thousands of years of grandeur, invasion, war, wealth and evolution. This mighty fort traces its origins to the ancient Trigarta Kingdom, which is mentioned in the Mahabharata epic. It is the largest fort in the Himalayas and probably the oldest dated fort in India. Occupying the lower valley of the Beas and its tributaries, it was one of the leading hill stations of Punjab and Himachal earlier. The Kangra Fort was built by the Katoch dynasty who was then a royal Rajput family of the state of Kangra. The fort is located just near the Kangra town and lies in the Old Kangra or Purana Kangra region which opens up to a beautiful valley. It is built right at the ‘Sangam i.e. the confluence of two rivers which are the Banganga and Majhi rivers.. It is said that the Kangra fort was built by Maharaja Susharma Chandra from the Katoch dynasty around 3500 years ago.The Maharaja Shushant Sharma fought in the Battle of Kurukshetra mentioned in the Mahabharata, alongside the Kauravas. After being defeated, he took Trigarta under his control and built the Kangra fort. "You must pass through the gate leg first. Never lead with your head because if there is an enemy on the other side, you might lose your head". This tip by Tikaraj Aishwarya Katoch (present scion of the Katoch dynasty) indicates at the heavy security in the fort maintained by the kings to protect the unimaginable treasures inside. There’s a saying - “He who holds the Kangra Fort, holds the hills”. It was believed that the fort is a treasure island! People say that Hindu and other rulers, used to send precious jewels, golds and silvers for the presiding deity at the fort temple as offerings, and the treasure kept piling up. Though the tales of these treasures are nothing but stories in this ruined fort now, there was a time when the sanctum sanctorum of the Kangra Fort held unimaginable riches which were offered to the large idol in the Brijeshwari temple inside the fort. Perhaps because of these treasures, this colossal fort has been attacked many times. Almost every ruler, be it an invader or a native ruler have tried to lay control over the Kangra fort. According to the historical records, Raja of Kashmir Shreshta was the first king to attack the Kangra Fort in 470 A.D. Even Mahmud of Ghazni unleashed his forces on the fort in pursuit of its enchanting wealth around 1000 AD. It is believed that the fort has 21 treasure wells with each well being 4 m deep and 2.5 m wide in circumference. The ruler of Ghazni managed to loot 8 wells, while the British rulers looted five wells during the 1890s. It is said that the fort still retains 8 more wells full of treasures that are yet to be unearthed. The Mughal Army led by Akbar made 52 failed attempts to capture this fort in the early 17th centuryHowever, Akbar’s son Jehangir successfully subdued the fort in 1620, forcing the submission of the Raja of Chamba, “the greatest of all the rajas in the region”.Mughal Emperor Jahangir with the help of Suraj Mal garrisoned with his troops. After Jahangir mercilessly captured the fort in1622, it was Raja Sansar Chand-II who finally succeeded in recovering the ancient fort of his ancestors from the Mughals in 1789. The Katoch Kings repeatedly looted Mughal controlled regions, weakening the Mughal control and with the decline of Mughal power, Raja Sansar Chand-II succeeded in recovering the ancient fort of his ancestors, in 1789. Maharaja Sansar Chand fought multiple battles with Gurkhas on one side and Sikh King Maharaja Ranjit Singh on the other.
Saurabh Mashelkar
00
Kangra Fort – A Timeless Sentinel of the Himalayas Visited on: 6th May 2025 On 6th May 2025, we embarked on a journey to explore the majestic Kangra Fort, located approximately 20 km from Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh. Perched strategically at the confluence of the Banganga and Manjhi rivers, this ancient fort stands as a testament to India's rich historical tapestry. Believed to have been constructed around 3,500 years ago by Maharaja Susharma Chandra of the Katoch dynasty, it is reputed to be the oldest fort in India and the largest in the Himalayan region. Historical Significance: Kangra Fort has witnessed numerous invasions and has been a coveted prize for many rulers due to its strategic location and wealth. It was first mentioned in recorded history during the invasion by Mahmud of Ghazni in 1009 A.D. Subsequent rulers, including the Mughals under Emperor Jahangir, also laid claim to it. The fort's architecture showcases a blend of ancient Indian and Islamic styles, reflecting its diverse history. Exploration Experience Our visit began at the Ranjit Singh Gate, leading us through a series of imposing gates and ramparts. The fort's layout is designed to confuse and deter invaders, with narrow passages and sharp turns. As we ascended, we encountered the Ambika Mata Temple, a revered shrine still in use today. Further inside, the Jain temple houses an idol of Lord Rishabhanatha, dating back to 854 CE, highlighting the fort's religious significance across different faiths. The summit offers a panoramic view of the Dhauladhar mountain range, with the rivers below adding to the picturesque landscape. Despite the summer heat, the fort's stone structures provided a cool respite, and the gentle breeze at the top was refreshing. Ticket Purchase Details: Entry to Kangra Fort is reasonably priced at: Indian Nationals: ₹25 per person Foreign Nationals: ₹300 per person Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, or from the website of the Archeological Society of India. Voice-guided tours are available inside the museum free of cost. Visitor Tips: Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Duration: Allocate at least 2 hours to explore the fort thoroughly. Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes suitable for uneven and rocky terrain. Amenities: Limited facilities are available; carry water and snacks. Photography: Permitted; the fort offers numerous scenic spots for photography. Conclusion: Kangra Fort is a captivating blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. Its storied past, coupled with the breathtaking vistas it offers, makes it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Our visit on 6th May 2025 was both enlightening and memorable, providing a deep appreciation for India's rich heritage.
Vishwas Borse
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The Kangra Fort is located 20 kilometers from the town of Dharamsala on the outskirts of the town of Kangra, India.The Kangra Fort was built by the royal Rajput family of Kangra State (the Katoch dynasty), which traces its origins to the ancient Trigarta Kingdom, mentioned in the Mahabharata epic. It is the largest fort in the Himalayas and probably the oldest dated fort in India. The fort of Kangra resisted Akbar's siege in 1615. However, Akbar's son Jahangir successfully subdued the fort in 1620. Kangra was at the time ruled by Raja Hari Chand Katoch of Kangra (also known as Raja Hari Chand II)Mughal Emperor Jahangir with the help of Suraj Mal garrisoned with his troops. The Katoch Kings repeatedly looted Mughal controlled regions, weakening the Mughal control, aiding in the decline of Mughal power, Raja Sansar Chand II succeeded in recovering the ancient fort of his ancestors, in 1789. Maharaja Sansar Chand fought multiple battles with Gurkhas on one side and Sikh King Maharaja Ranjit Singh on the other. Sansar Chand used to keep his neighboring Kings jailed, and this led to conspiracies against him. During a battle between the Sikhs and Katochs, the gates of the fort had been kept open for supplies. The fort is right next to Kangra town. 32.1°N 76.27°E The fort stands on a steep rock in Purana Kangra (translates to Old Kangra) dominating the surrounding valley, built strategically at the "sangam" confluence (places where two rivers meet) of Banganga and Majhi rivers. It is said that Kangra belongs to one who owns the fort. Also near to old Kangra is the famous Jayanti Mata temple on a hill top. The Temple was built by the General of the Gorkha Army, Bada Kaji Amar Singh Thapa. Also close to entrance is a small museum which exhibits the history of Kangra fort. Adjoining the Fort is the Maharaja Sansar Chand Katoch Museum run by the Royal Family of Kangra. The Museum also provides audio guides for the fort and the museum and has a cafeteria.
Sachin Purvaj
00
Kangra Fort in Himachal Pradesh is a historical marvel that I recently had the pleasure of visiting with my brother, Rugved. The moment we stepped foot into the fort, we were captivated by its grandeur and rich heritage. The awe-inspiring view from the fort's vantage points is nothing short of breathtaking. It offers a panoramic sight of the surrounding landscapes, with rolling hills and lush greenery spreading as far as the eye can see. The fort itself is steeped in history, and the presence of ancient artifacts and architectural elements was a testament to its glorious past. Exploring the various sections of the fort, we were transported back in time, imagining the stories of battles, conquests, and royal lives that once unfolded within these walls. One notable aspect that stood out during our visit was the number of foreigners who were also exploring the fort. The Kangra Fort seems to attract visitors from around the globe, drawn to its historical significance and stunning views. The diversity of cultures and languages we encountered added to the overall enriching experience of the visit. The location of the fort on a hilltop adds to its charm. As we ascended through the winding pathways, the anticipation of reaching the top and witnessing the majestic view kept us excited throughout the journey. In conclusion, the Kangra Fort is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a glimpse into the past. Its splendid architecture, rich heritage, and captivating views make it an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. I highly recommend a visit to this iconic fortress for a journey through time and an appreciation of the natural beauty that surrounds it.
Lala Sherikar
00
Kangra Fort – Dharmshala beyond Mcleodganj and Momos It is merely 20 km from Dharmashala and we have been to Mcleodganj many times. Yet it was only this time, when we were in Kangra Valley, we could make it to Kangra Fort. Kangra Fort has a complex history. You get audio guides at the gate and it is well-worth getting one of those. To put it simply – the fort was built by the Rajput Katoch dynasty. It changed hands many times moving to Mughals and then back to Rajputs and finally to the British. It is arguably the largest fort in Himalayan region and perhaps the oldest documented fort in India. The fort is at various levels and while climbing up, we could see various influences. A lot of the temple has been lost in the passage of time. From whatever remains, we loved the cosy standalone Jain temple housing Lord Rishabhnath inside. The other side was slightly concealed and when we climbed down to a courtyard below, we saw beautifully carved Ganga, and Jamuna statues. There was a Lakshmi – Narayan temple here. At this point it started raining and the dry stone structure around transformed to a beautiful moss green-brown earthy colour. It was November and the chill rose with the late afternoon rain. We were part of a group and everyone was pulling out their woollens. It is a long walk up, but when we reached the top, the view from the sprawling open terrace was breathtaking. We could see a huge expanse of Kangra Valley. A loan dry tree punctuated the rooftop. It was like a sentinel from yester years and made us quiet and pensive. So if you are in this region, make it a point to visit Kangra Fort. Did we mention it is a shutterbug’s delight too and you would not be disappointed.
Delhi Fun Dos
00
Kangra Fort is a massive fort of tremendous historical significance. This is by far the most massive, ancient and stunning fort that I ever visited. The grandness of this fort can only be felt after paying a visit. I came to Kangra Town and from there there was no mode of regular transport available to this fort. It's located in a bit remote area, so you need to reserve an auto. Make sure that you take the auto person's number, because you won't get any vehicle even while returning from the fort. But if you call the auto person, he will come and pick you up from the front of the fort gate. Please note that only online ticket is accepted, which you will get by scanning the QR code from the ticket counter. Be prepared to walk a long distance and climb substantial height inside the fort. As soon as I ducked and entered through the ancient gate of the fort, I was captivated to witness the grandness and size of this fort. It felt like stepping into a whole new world. The tall walls and the walkway along the walls leads to the upper sections of the fort. Each wall is engraved with images of deities like Ganesha, Durga Ji etc, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of ancient artists. As you walk uphill on the stony steps, the view begins changing. At the halfway stage you will come across a temple (in half ruined condition), but still functional. As you climb higher you will eventually reach the topmost point of the fort, which provides the most breathtaking view of the surrounding forested areas and the massive walls of the fort. Highly recommended to visit, it will be an experience of a lifetime for you.🩵
Samrat Chattopadhyay
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Nearby Attractions Of Kangra Fort
Jayanti Mata Mandir
Raja Sansar Chandra Museum & Cafe
Malhar Fort
Jayanti Mata Mandir
4.7
(104)
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Raja Sansar Chandra Museum & Cafe
4.4
(52)
Click for details
Malhar Fort
3.9
(39)
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Nearby Restaurants Of Kangra Fort
The vinods rasoi
DUGGAL'S New Luxmi Sweets
The vinods rasoi
4.8
(3)
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DUGGAL'S New Luxmi Sweets
4.0
(5)
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Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIBasic Info
Address
Old Kangra, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh 176001, India
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Website
kangragroup.com
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Description
The Kangra fort is a historic fort located in the Kangra district of the Himachal Pradesh state, India. This fort is also known as 'Nagarkot' and 'Kot Kangra'. This fort stands on a hillock between two rivers, among the foothills of the Dhauladhar range.
attractions: Jayanti Mata Mandir, Raja Sansar Chandra Museum & Cafe, Malhar Fort, restaurants: The vinods rasoi, DUGGAL'S New Luxmi Sweets
