Kangra Fort: Largest and one of the oldest forts in India

Rajkumari Sharma Tankha

Kangra Fort—also known as Nagarkot or Kot Kangra—is located about an hour and a half from Garli. Our host, Yatish Sud, very graciously arranged our travel to and from the fort, making the journey comfortable and memorable.

Perched majestically atop a hill, Kangra Fort offers breathtaking panoramic views of the valley below. Built by a Katoch king around 1500 BC, it is considered one of the oldest and largest forts in India, standing as a testament to centuries of history and resilience.

Strategic Location at the Confluence of Rivers

The fort is uniquely positioned at the sangam (confluence) of the Banganga River and Manjhi River, adding to both its strategic and scenic significance.

A Fort That Witnessed Empires Rise and Fall

Kangra Fort has seen numerous rulers and battles over centuries:

• In 1615, during the reign of Raja Hari Chand Katoch, Akbar attempted to annex the fort but failed.
• In 1620, his son Jahangir successfully captured it.
• Sansar Chand Katoch regained control in 1789.
• After his death in 1828, Maharaja Ranjit Singh annexed the fort.
• The British took control following the First Anglo-Sikh War in 1846.
• In 1905, the devastating 1905 Kangra earthquake caused massive destruction to the fort.

Remarkably, only one intricately carved wall of the Lakshmi Narayan Temple within the complex survived the earthquake.

Explore the Museum and Temples Inside the Fort

A visit to Kangra Fort is incomplete without exploring the Maharaja Sansar Chand Katoch Museum. Managed by the royal family, the museum houses photographs, artefacts, and sculptures that vividly narrate the fort’s rich past.

Spread across nearly 4 km, the fort is protected by massive walls and ramparts. It features seven gates and several ancient temples within its premises, including:

• Ambika Devi Temple
• Sheetla Mata Temple
• Lakshmi Narayan Temple
• A Jain Temple Kangra Fort housing the original idol of Mahavira

Architecture and Key Attractions

Entry to the fort is through the Ranjit Singh Gate, which leads to a series of gateways including Jahangiri, Ahani, and Amiri Darwazas.

A staircase between the Sheetla Mata and Ambika Devi temples leads to the Sheesh Mahal. Nearby lies the Andheri Darwaza, opening into the remains of a historic mosque—reflecting the fort’s layered cultural history.

One of the most fascinating features of Kangra Fort is its 21 treasure wells, each approximately 4 metres deep and 2.5 metres in circumference. Historical accounts suggest that Mahmud of Ghazni looted eight of these wells. Locals believe the remaining wells still hold hidden riches, though there is no confirmed evidence.

Another highlight is the stepwell known as Kapoorsagar, adding to the architectural charm of the site.

Entry Fee and Visitor Experience

• Entry Fee: ₹150 for Indians and ₹300 for foreign tourists
• Audio Guides: Available on-site

If you are a history enthusiast, opting for the audio guide is highly recommended. The narration by Roshan Seth—who portrayed Jawaharlal Nehru in the film Gandhi—beautifully brings alive the fort’s history as you walk through its ruins.

Kangra Fort is not just a historical monument—it is a living chronicle of India’s past, echoing stories of power, resilience, and architectural brilliance. Whether you are a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or a curious traveller, this iconic fort in Himachal Pradesh promises a deeply enriching experience.