Visit these 10 Historic Forts in North India to Explore India’s Past

India is considered to be one of the oldest living civilisations in the world that has preserved and evolved its culture and heritage. Here are some of the most amazing historical forts in the northern region of India, which will give you a glimpse into India’s past:

1. Jaisalmer Fort

Awarded the title of UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Jaisalmer Fort is a marvel to look at. It was built in 1156 AD and was the first edifice constructed in Jaisalmer. The fort was built by Raja Rawal Jaisal, the founder of Jaisalmer. He found the land where Jaisalmer sits now, made a mud castle on a hilltop and named the city after himself. Jaisalmer literally translates to ‘the hill fort of Jaisal’.

How to reach the Jaisalmer Fort via air?

While the city has an airport, it is only connected to a select few domestic destinations. It is, however, well-connected via roads and railways to help you reach wherever you want. You can take a cab or a bus from the airport or railway station to your selected location in and around Jaisalmer.

2. Hawa Mahal

Also known as the Palace of Breeze, the Hawa Mahal is a marvellous monument which provides a glimpse of the culture in 18th century Rajasthan. Being one of the major tourist attractions of the city, the palace is made out of sandstone and features around 953 windows.

How to reach Hawa Mahal via air?

As the palaces of Jaipur are renowned across the globe, the city has an international airport which makes it easier for travellers to visit the city from around the world. Jaipur also has a railway station which can connect you to any part of the country.

Moreover, you can also check out our hotel guides near Hawa Mahal in detail here!

3. Junagarh Fort

Constructed under the commission of Raja Rai Singh in 1588, the Junagarh Fort is an impregnable bastion which is made up of red sandstone and marble. It is one of the primary Bikaner attractions in the city and has attracted people from across the globe.

How to reach Junagarh Fortvia air?

While the city has an airport, it is only connected to a select few domestic destinations. The city is, however, well connected via roads and railways to help you reach wherever you want. You can take a cab or a bus from the airport or railway station to your selected location in and around Bikaner.

4. Gwalior Fort

It is one of the most beautiful edifices in Madhya Pradesh, which is situated on a beautiful hilltop and is considered to be an impenetrable fortress. While archaeologists and historians still haven’t pinpointed the exact date of its foundation, according to the local legends, the Gwalior Fort was constructed by King Suraj Sen in the 3rd century CE. A popular legend amongst the locals suggests that the city got its name from a hermit saint named Gwalipa, who saved Suraj Sen from a deadly disease.

How to reach Gwalior Fort via air?

While Gwalior has an airport, it only provides flights to limited destinations, including only New Delhi, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and Kolkata. However, you can take a flight to Agra airport, which is only 123 km away. There is also a wide range of other transportation options that can help you reach Gwalior.

5. Taj Mahal

One of the seven wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal is a magnificent edifice in the city of Agra, memorialising the love of an emperor for his queen. This amazing monument was commissioned by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, in mid 17th century honouring his deceased wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in childbirth. This mausoleum of white marble took approximately 22 years to be built. Millions of people from across the globe visit this monument to bask in its beauty.

How to reach the Taj Mahal via air?

Owing to the fame of the Taj Mahal, Agra has built fine infrastructure to allow people from worldwide to reach this amazing monument. It has a dedicated international airport and railway station, which enable people to travel from any part of the world.

6. Agra Fort

Built in 1565, the Agra Fort was the residence of Mughal emperors residing near the Yamuna River in Agra. Commissioned by the great emperor Akbar, the fort is a 70 feet high structure made out of beautiful red sandstone that emulates the Mughal empire’s beautiful architecture. The fort was awarded the title of UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

How to reach Agra Fort via air?

Agra has built fine infrastructure to allow people from worldwide to reach this amazing monument. It has a dedicated international airport and railway station which allows people to travel from any part of the world.

7. Red Fort

Also known as the Lal Kila, the Red Fort is one of the most precious and well-preserved legacies of the Mughal empire, which ruled India for centuries. One of the most popular tourist attractions in the capital of the country, it was built by Shah Jahan during the mid-17th century. The 75 ft fort is entirely constructed with red sandstones. It shows the infrastructural Prowse of the architects and engineers during the Mughal empire and their capability of constructing iconic structural beauties.

How to reach Red Fort via air?

Delhi is one of the major metropolitan cities in India and has a dedicated international airport and railway station, which provides connectivity across the globe.

8. Mehrangarh Fort

Boasting its marvellous architecture and picturesque landscape, the Mehrangarh Fort is one of many exquisite palaces in Jodhpur. Now constructed into a museum trust, the fort was constructed in the mid-15th century under the orders of Rao Jodha, the founder of Jodhpur. The fort spans over 5 km atop a 125-m high hill which looks over the beautiful city. You can explore the beauty of Jodhpur through a panoramic view from the Mehrangarh Fort, as well as check out the historical artefacts of its time.

How to reach Mehrangarh Fort via air?

While Jodhpur has an airport, it only serves domestic flights. It can connect you to major destinations across the country. However, if you are coming on an international flight, you need to go to the Jaipur International Airport.

9. Amer Fort

Also called the Amber Palace, Amer Fort is an iconic structure in Jaipur that is endowed with scenic beauty. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions of the city, which sits on a small hill and emulates the essence of Rajput architecture. It was built in the 17th century by Raja Man Singh, and it is entirely constructed out of pale yellow and pink sandstone. Legend has it that the fort also has secret tunnels that lead directly to Jaigarh Fort.

How to reach Amer Fort via air?

As the palaces of Jaipur are renowned across the globe, the city has an international airport which makes it easier for travellers to visit the city from across the globe. Jaipur also has a railway station which can connect you to any part of the country.

10. Kangra Fort

Holding a lot of historical and mythical importance of Indian heritage, Kangra Fort is one of the most picturesque forts in the country. One of the oldest and largest forts in India, the fort is believed to date back to the time of Mahabharat and also features in the story. The Katoch Dynasty were the first residents of the fort, who are considered to be the oldest surviving royal dynasty in the world.

How to reach Kangra Fort via air?

The Kangra Fort is only 20 km away from Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh, from where you can easily find a flight or train to any part of the country.

Conclusion

All these forts were built by different rulers from different empires. Each one is unique and tells a different tale of India’s history. If you want to know the development of the northern region in India, visiting these iconic forts can help you get an idea of the country’s evolution.

FAQs

Is it necessary to carry a COVID-19 vaccination certificate while travelling in India?

Yes, you must carry a COVID-19 fully vaccinated certificate while travelling in India.

What is the best time to go on a tour in Jaipur?

The best time to go on a tour in Jaipur is during the winter season, which lasts from October to March.

Which state has the highest number of remarkable and historic forts?

Rajasthan has the highest number of remarkable and historic forts, owing to its rich cultural history.

Who commissioned the construction of Red Fort?

Red Fort was commissioned by Shah Jahan in the mid-17th century.

What is so remarkable about Hawa Mahal?

With around 953 spectacular windows mounted on this edifice, the fort does not have a foundation. It is the tallest building in the world that doesn’t have a foundation.

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