Kangra Fort is a historic fort located in the town of Kangra in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. The fort is believed to have been built by the Rajput family of Katoch and is one of the oldest forts in India. It is strategically located at the confluence of the Banganga and Majhi rivers and is surrounded by the Dhauladhar mountain range.
The Kangra Fort has a long and tumultuous history; it has been besieged several times and has been destroyed and rebuilt many times over the centuries. The fort was invaded by various armies, including the Mughals, the Sikhs, and the British, and has been witness to many battles and sieges.
The fort is divided into two sections: the outer and inner fort. The outer fort contains several temples, including the Lakshmi Narayan Temple, the Ambika Devi Temple, and the Adinath Temple. The inner fort, the older and more fortified section of the fort, contains the palace of the Katoch dynasty, the Sheesh Mahal, and the Royal Audience Hall.
One of the most striking features of the Kangra Fort is its massive walls, which are up to 20 meters high and 2 to 4 meters thick. The walls are built of large stone blocks and are reinforced with towers and bastions regularly. The fort also has several gates, including the Ranjit Singh Gate, the Ahani Gate, and the Amiri Gate.
Kangra Fort is a popular tourist destination managed by the Archaeological Survey of India. The fort is open to visitors throughout the year, and guided tours are available for those who wish to explore its history and architecture.
Places To Visit Near Kangra Fort:
There are many places to visit near Kangra Fort in Himachal Pradesh. Here are some of the popular ones:
Masroor Rock Cut Temple:
It is a group of ancient temples carved out of rock about 15 km from Kangra Fort. The temple complex is believed to date back to the 8th century and is a popular attraction for its intricate carvings and architecture.
It is a beautiful alpine lake located at an altitude of 2,934 meters in the Dhauladhar range. The lake is about 22 km from Kangra Fort and is a popular trekking destination.
It is a picturesque hill station located about 20 km from Kangra Fort. It is known for its Tibetan culture and is home to the Dalai Lama and a large Tibetan community. The town has many attractions, such as the Tsuglagkhang Complex, Bhagsu Waterfall, and Dal Lake.
It is a popular hill station located about 18 km from Kangra Fort. The town is known for its scenic beauty and popular destination for trekking and mountaineering. Some popular attractions in Dharamshala include the Kangra Art Museum, St. John's Church, and the Norbulingka Institute.
It is a popular destination for adventure sports like paragliding and is about 60 km from Kangra Fort. The town is known for its scenic beauty and popular destination for trekking and camping.
It is a scenic hill town located about 35 km from Kangra Fort. The town is known for its tea gardens and is a popular destination for nature lovers. Some popular attractions in Palampur include the Neugal Khad, Saurabh Van Vihar, and the Tashi Jong Monastery.
Things To Do In Kangra Fort:
There are several things to do in Kangra Fort in Himachal Pradesh. Here are some of the popular activities:
Explore the fort:
Kangra Fort is a massive structure with many sections, including temples, palaces, and courtyards. Exploring the fort can take several hours, and visitors can learn about the fort's history and architecture from the various guides available.
Enjoy the view:
Kangra Fort is located on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can take in the scenery from the fort's ramparts or the various vantage points located inside the fort.
Attend the Light and Sound Show:
The fort hosts a light and sound show in the evenings, which tells the story of the fort's history and legends. The show is a popular attraction and provides an immersive experience.
Visit the temples:
Kangra Fort has several temples, including the Lakshmi Narayan Temple, the Ambika Devi Temple, and the Adinath Temple. Visitors can participate in the various rituals and ceremonies conducted at these temples.
Learn about the Katoch dynasty:
Kangra Fort was the seat of the Katoch dynasty, and visitors can learn about the history and culture of this dynasty from the various exhibits and displays within the fort.
Enjoy a picnic:
The fort's courtyards and gardens are ideal for picnics, and visitors can enjoy a leisurely afternoon with family and friends amidst the fort's ancient walls.
Shop for souvenirs:
The fort has several shops selling local handicrafts, souvenirs, and other items. Visitors can pick up unique items to take home as a reminder of their trip to Kangra Fort.