Top 10 Oldest Historical Forts of India
India is famous far and wide for its rich historical heritage. The landscape of the country is marked with a number of forts and palaces which stand to narrate their own saga of mystery and importance. There are many forts built by the Mughals and the Rajputs and some by the Colonial government which are a mixture of architectural designs from various periods and places. Here is a list of top 10must visit Forts in India. Take a look!
10. Junagarh Fort, Junagarh:
Junagarh fort also called as Chintamani is a well known fort situated in Bikaner district of Rajasthan. This massive structure was built by Raja Rai Singh. This fort encompasses various temples, pavilions, gates which depict mix architectural style and cultures. This fort is an outstanding structure made of red marbles and provides a small glance of living styles of Maharajas. The most fantastic feature of this fort is its interior which is painted in traditional style and carving of red stones which marked its beauty. The two statues of elephants at the gate emphasize Rajput architectural style. The scattering of red and yellow colour can easily display history and culture.
9. Gwalior Fort, Madhya Pradesh:
This fort is the beautiful gemstone in the crown of Madhya Pradesh. This massive structure was constructed by Raja Man Singh Tomar during 15th century. The alluring artwork on its walls, palaces and pillars can be well witnessed. The walls of fort are built along the edges of Gopachal hill which in turns gives an irregular appearance. It has six to eight gates with ‘Hathi Pul ’ as its main entrance. The intricate carved jain temple is the main attraction in the Southern side and Man Mandir Palace in the Northern side. It has an ingenious water supply system along with green lawns.
8. Daulatabad Fort, Aurangabad:
The Daulatabad Fort is built on a pyramid shaped mountain peak which is a strange combination of a ground level and hill top fort. It was built by the Rashtrakuta kings and was then ruled by many dynasties. It is situated in Daulatabad, in the outskirts of Aurangabad. The fort is surrounded by three concentric walls and the rock around the fort is chiselled in such an artistic manner that it makes the climbing very difficult. It is surrounded by green vegetation and fills the heart of the viewer with serenity.
7. Jhansi Fort, Uttar Pradesh:
This astronomic architecture was built on the backdrop of Bangra hills in Jhansi in 1613 by Raja Bir Singh Deo of Orchha. The walls and architectural style of this fort depicts the lifestyle of lion-hearted queen Rani Lakshmi Bai. The Ganesh temple constructed at the entrance gives you a warm welcome along with the ten gates. The memorial board constructed emphasizes on the white-knuckle masterstroke of Rani Lakshmi Bai on the horse from the fort. Rani used to reside in the fort during the battle with East India Company in 1857 in which she put all her endeavours to achieve success. The fort is expanded over 15 acres surrounded with giant walls and twenty two supports on both sides.
6. Golkonda Fort, Hyderabad:
Golkonda Fort with just a little less fame than other forts was built by Kakatiya Dynasty. It was ruled by Ibrahim Quli Qutub Shah Wali. It is situated 11 kilometres away from the hustle-bustle city life and is standing in a calm and serene place. It is built on granite hill which is 120 m high and also has vaults which in earlier times used to store Kohinoor and Hope Diamonds. Its architectural beauty lies in doors, entrances, domes, temples. The graceful garden of the fort and main entrance “Fateh Darwaza” gleams all its architectural valour. The resonant effect of a hand clap can be heard under the dome which reverberates and can be heard at the Bala Hisar Pavilion also. This fort has several beautiful temples, mosques and water supply system too.
5. Jaisalmer Fort, Rajasthan:
The Jaisalmer Fort is one of the largest forts in India. It emphasizes the luxury and royalty enjoyed by the Rajput rulers of Rajasthan. The fort is an outstanding creation built out of yellow sandstone which is ablaze with a golden tinge when the sunrays hit it. Hence it is also called the Golden Fort. It was built by the Rajput ruler, Rao Jaisal in 1156 AD. It is also popularly known as the Sonar Quila by the local people. It houses the Royal Palace, many temples and Havelis and is set on a hill-top making it visible from a distance.
4. Amber Fort, Jaipur:
Jaipur, the capital of royal state Rajasthan is blessed with a number of forts and palaces. Amber Fort, however, is one of the most popular and crowd-pulling fort of the city. It is situated in the calm and stretched backdrop of hills, near the Maota Lake. The grandeur of this fort is mesmerising and its architecture is an amalgamation of Hindu, Rajput and Mughal style. It was built by Raja Man Singh I in the year 1592. The major construction is done using red sandstone and marble and the design is a terrific four level layout plan enhancing its aesthetic beauty.
3. Red Fort, Agra:
Agra Fort is situated nearly 2.5 km away from its sister monument Taj Mahal, in Agra. It is a giant structure built of red stone which witnessed many ups and falls of the Mughal dynasty. It has a semicircular plan built alongside the river Yamuna, the walls are a classic 70 feet high and the interior is marked with lush green lawn. Most of it was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and he also spent his last days in a high-rising tower in the fort, from where the Taj Mahal was clearly seen. The fort is included in UNESCO’s list of World Heritage site.
2. Chittorgarh Fort, Chittorgarh:
The Chittorgarh Fort, spread in a wide area, is a true symbol of the pride of Mewar, standing for the bravery and chivalry of the Royal family. It stands to witness the era of sacrifice when people could die instead of giving up in front of their enemies. It is one of the most visited tourist spots in Rajasthan which houses many private and public halls, museum, palaces, temples and the Victory Tower.1. 1. Red Fort, Delhi:
The Red Fort in Delhi was built by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan in the 17th century which stands as a symbol of pride for the country. It is a red sandstone structure which was built in around ten years. It was originally known as ‘Quila-e-Mubarak’ as it was the residence of the ruling family. The fort is also honored with the title of World Heritage Site by UNESCO and presents India before the world. It also has national significance as the flag hoisting for 15th August and Prime Minister’s speech is delivered from the Red Fort. The fort is beautiful from within too, with river Yamuna flowing alongside. Inside the fort, there are many private and public halls, gardens and mosques.
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