Quick Info

Visit Duration: 3 hours

Timings: 9 AM-7:30 PM

Entry type: Paid

Entry Details: Entry fees Rs. 150/- for Indian and Rs. 300/- for foreigners

summary

Kangra Fort is a historic fort located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is situated on a hilltop overlooking the Banganga and Manjhi rivers, and is one of the largest forts in the Himalayas. The fort has a rich history spanning over thousands of years, and has witnessed numerous battles and invasions by various dynasties.

The origins of Kangra Fort can be traced back to the ancient Trigarta Kingdom, which was ruled by the Katoch dynasty. The fort was initially built in the 4th century BCE, but was destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries due to numerous invasions by various rulers, including the Mughals, the British, and the Gurkhas.

The fort complex is spread over an area of approximately 4 km and comprises several temples, palaces, and other structures, including the Lakshmi Narayan temple, the Ambika Devi temple, and the Maharaja Sansar Chand Katoch Museum. The fort is also home to a number of ancient artifacts, including coins, sculptures, and paintings.

One of the most significant events in the history of Kangra Fort was the 1905 earthquake, which caused extensive damage to the fort and resulted in the collapse of many of its structures. However, efforts have been made to restore and preserve the fort over the years, and it is now a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Kangra Fort is a fascinating destination for history buffs and anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of India. With its beautiful architecture, amazing views, and rich history, it is definitely worth a visit for anyone traveling to the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh.

Highlights of Kangra Fort

Kangra Fort is one of the most ancient and impressive forts in India, located in the town of Kangra in the state of Himachal Pradesh. The fort has a rich history dating back to ancient times and has been witness to numerous battles and conquests. Here are some of the highlights of Kangra Fort:

Historical Significance: Kangra Fort has a rich historical significance, as it has been mentioned in ancient texts like the Mahabharata and the Rajtarangini. Various dynasties ruled this fort, like the Katoch dynasty, Mughals, Sikhs, and British.
Architecture: The Kangra Fort is a magnificent architectural marvel that reflects the grandeur of ancient Indian architecture. The fort is built on a plateau and is surrounded by high walls and ramparts. The fort has several gates, including the Ranjit Singh Gate, the Ahani and Amiri Darwaza, and the Jahangiri Darwaza.
Museum: The Kangra Fort also has a museum that houses a rich collection of ancient artifacts, weapons, coins, and other items that give a glimpse into the ancient history of the region. The museum also has a rare collection of paintings belonging to the famous Kangra school of painting.
Temples: The Kangra Fort has several temples located within its premises, including the Ambika Devi Temple, the Laxmi Narayan Temple, and the Adinath Temple. These temples are known for their intricate carvings and beautiful architecture.
Panoramic Views: Kangra Fort offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys, making it a popular tourist destination. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Dhauladhar range and the Beas River from the top of the fort.
Kangra Fort is a wonderful tourist destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts, as it carries a rich historical culture and heritage of India.

Kangra Fort Overview

Points Of Interest for Kangra Fort

This fort is a historical fortress located in the Kangra district of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Here are some points of interest in Kangra Fort:

1. The Fort Complex: The Kangra Fort complex is spread over an area of approximately 4 km and includes several structures such as palaces, temples, gates, and ramparts.
2. Maharaja Sansar Chand Katoch Museum: This museum is located inside the fort complex and showcases the rich history and culture of the Kangra Valley. The museum has a collection of ancient coins, weapons, and manuscripts.
3. Rani Jhansi Park: This park is located within the fort complex and is named after Rani Lakshmi Bai of Jhansi. The park offers a panoramic view of the surrounding valley and has a small museum showcasing the history of the fort.
4. Temples: The Kangra Fort complex has several temples, including the Ambika Devi Temple, Lakshmi Narayan Temple, and Shitla Mata Temple. These temples are well known for their extra ordinary architecture and religious significance.
5. Watchtowers: The fort has several watchtowers, including the Andheri Darwaza, which offers a spectacular view of the Dhauladhar Range and the Beas River Valley.
6. The Jahangiri Darwaza: The Jahangiri Darwaza is the main entrance to the fort and was built by the Mughal emperor Jahangir. The gate is a fine example of Mughal architecture and is adorned with intricate carvings and calligraphy.
7. The Tarns: The Kangra Fort complex has several water bodies, including the Kareri Lake and the Nadaun Tank. These water bodies provide a serene atmosphere and are a popular spot for picnics.
8. The Hanging Bridge: The Hanging Bridge is a suspension bridge that connects the fort to the other side of the Banganga River. The bridge offers a thrilling experience and is a popular spot for tourists.

Best time to visit Kangra Fort

The best time to visit Kangra Fort would be during the winter months, from September to March. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the temperatures are cooler, making it easier to explore the fort and its surroundings.

The summer months, from April to June, can be quite hot and humid, which may make it difficult to enjoy the outdoor activities and sightseeing. During monsoon, from July to September, can also make it challenging to explore the fort due to heavy rainfall and landslides in the area.

Therefore, it is recommended to visit Kangra Fort during the winter months to enjoy the pleasant weather and make the most of your trip.