India’s soul echoes through its majestic/splendid forts bearing silent witness to the ebbs and flows of the ages in which empires rise and fall. In each fort, a masterpiece woven from history and architecture lives in tune with the stories of the past. Begin a journey through time as we reveal nine incredible structures:
- Red Fort, Delhi
A majestic monument, the Red Fort erected by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, reaches the skies from the center of Delhi. This majestic red sandstone bulwark served as the venue of the Mughal Empire for nearly two centuries. Make your way through its magnificent halls, which are bedazzled with divine pietra dura inlay work, a symbol of the unmatched arts of the Mughal era. Wonder at the beautiful audience halls where emperors ruled once and you will marvel at the grandeur of the Mughal court too.
- Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur
The Fort of Mehrangarh, or, as the locals call it, the ‘Crown of Marwar,’ sits majestically atop a rocky outcrop from where it oversees the bustling city of Jodhpur below. This marvelous fort is considered as one of the best-fortified constructions by Rathores in which one can find detailed carvings everywhere and hear the history of Rajput valor echo. Go up its ramparts, decorated with canon balls from crossed swords for years, and look into the panoramic view of the Blue City which is now a page from history. The Mehrangarh Fort Museum offers the opportunity to explore more about the fort’s history and the heritage of the Rathore clan.
- Agra Fort, Agra
Agra Fort is not only a fort but a World Heritage Site declared by UNESCO, but is much more than that. This building was the magnificent Mughal residence before its conversion to a powerful prison. Its pure white marble façade, is as beautiful as the nearby Taj Mahal, the captivating floral and geometric designs cover it. Wander the extensive gardens such as Jahangiri Mahal and the intricately carved Diwan-i- خاص (Hall of Private Audience) to get a glimpse of what would have been the residence of the Mughal emperors.
- Chittorgarh Fort, Rajasthan
As a manifestation of Rajput pride and sacrifice, Chittorgarh Fort, the largest fort in India, is a retrospective of a glorious past. Being a witness to various battles, the fort’s gargantuan 19-kilometer-long walls preserve narratives of courage and the dreadful stories of Jauhar (mass self-immolation) of Rajput women escaping captivity by the invading armies. Discover its sprawling complex, including the Padmini Palace and the Vijay Stambh (Victory Tower) and, thereby, pay tribute to the Rajput tradition.
- Golconda Fort, Hyderabad
Formerly the diamond trading center of the city, Golconda Fort’s impact still exceeds its fort walls. This architectural wonder, which is characterized by an imposing triple-layered defensive system, was the residence of the Qutb Shahi dynasty. Get to the last floor and admire stunning panoramic views of the urban jungle that is Hyderabad. Unravel its exciting past and enter into a time when Golconda was a place of immense power and riches, well-known for its precious diamonds like the Kohinoor. Be amazed at the impressive acoustics that permit whispering from one side of the fort to the other, which is only but a reflection of the fort’s architectural mastery.
- Amer Fort, Jaipur
UNESCO Word Heritage, Amer Fort is an outstanding masterpiece of Rajput artistry. This vast site, surrounded by the landscape of Aravalli Hills, has a system of courtyards, palaces and Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace). Enter it, and see the mirror-work that once upon a time gave a fascinating view of the life of the royal family. Encounter the Diwan-i- عام (Hall of Public Audience) in which the king listened to his people and the Sila Devi Temple, a symbol of the fort’s diverse religious heritage.
- Gwalior Fort, Madhya Pradesh
This hilly fortress, situated on the rock of sandstone that is massive, has been in dispute from the beginning of history. It was under the control of different empires, including the Mughals, Tomars and Marathas. The Gwalior Fort can be recognized through its unique mix of Hindu and Mughal styles of architecture, which can be seen through its intricate carvings and imposing structure. Find your way through its tortuous pathways, which include the Man Singh Palace and the Telika Mandir; and note down its architectural wonders that have survived through generations. Make sure to go up to Sas Bahu Temples which shows a fantastic example of ancient Indian cave architecture.
- Jaigarh Fort, Jaipur
Perched on a neighboring hill, Jaigarh Fort stands as a loyal sentinel that overlooks Amer Fort, a distance away. A mighty fort, located at a strategic point, housed a formidable collection of the largest cannons of its time to repel any possible attackers. Check out its armory, an amazing display of weaponry, and be enthralled with the Rajput strategy! Sneak up to the giant Jaivan cannon and lose your breath looking at its enormous size, which symbolizes the fort’s military power.
- Jaisalmer Fort, Rajasthan
Nicknamed the “Golden Fort,” Jaisalmer Fort once ruled by the powerful Rajas rises majestically from the heart of the Thar Desert, its golden sandstone glowing in the desert sun. Constructed by Rawal Jaisal in the 12 century, it is the only fort in India which is still partly inhabited. Discover the narrow streets, all decorated with intricate facades of the havelis (house of the merchants) and get lost in the joy of the fort. On top of the fort’s peak you can view the boundless desert, the glowing golden canvas stretching as far as you could see.
This just nine of such wonderful forts which indeed make but a glimpse of India’s rich tapestry of forts. Each one, a quintessential epoch of its own, invites nature and culture lovers to explore. So, you should begin and explore the stories on your own which are desperate to be told by these beautiful tour guides of time.
