Bhashmaknagar Fort is an ancient fort in the West Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh, India. It is a popular tourist attraction and a must-visit place for history lovers. The defence is believed to have been built during the 4th century AD by King Bhisma of the Chutia Kingdom, a well-known regional ruler.
The fort has a strategic location on a hill overlooking the Siyom River and the surrounding valley. The fort was used as a military base by the Chutia Kingdom to protect their kingdom from invading forces. The fort was also used as a trading post, where traders from Tibet, Bhutan, and other neighbouring regions used to trade their goods.
The fort is made of stones and bricks and has a circular shape. It has a circumference of about 1 km and is surrounded by a moat. The fort's walls are about 10 feet high and have several bastions at regular intervals. The entrance to the fort was through a narrow gate, which was used to control people's entry into the defence.
A temple and a prison. The court is believed to have been the king's and his family's residence. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has several carvings on its walls. The prison is located near the fort's entrance and was used to keep prisoners.
The fort has a rich history and has witnessed several battles and invasions over the centuries. It is now a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and attracts tourists worldwide.
Besides visiting the Bhashmaknagar Fort, tourists can also explore the nearby areas.
The West Siang district has several other historical sites and natural attractions, including the Malinithan Temple, the Daying Ering Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Mechuka Valley. The community is also known for its scenic beauty, with the Siyom River and the surrounding hills offering breathtaking views.
This national park is located near the Myanmar border and is known for its diverse flora and fauna. It is home to several rare and endangered species, such as the snow leopard, clouded leopard, Asiatic black bear, and Indian elephant. Trekking and camping are popular activities here.
This town is located about 25 kilometres from Bhashmaknagar and is known for its scenic beauty and cultural heritage. It is home to the Namdapha Heritage Centre, which showcases the cultural traditions and artefacts of the various tribes.
Debian:
This small village is located within the Namdapha National Park and is the starting point for many treks and hikes. It is also home to a research centre that studies the flora and fauna of the park.
This picturesque lake is about 60 kilometres from Bhashmaknagar and is surrounded by lush green forests and mountains. The legend goes that anyone who swims in the lake never returns.
Kharsang:
This small town is located about 10 kilometres from Bhashmaknagar and is known for its tea plantations. The Kharsang Tea Estate is one of the oldest tea plantations in Arunachal Pradesh and offers visitors a chance to learn about the tea-making process and taste some of the local brews.