India is the land of mighty forts and pristine palaces. The architecture of each region gives a sneak peek into the culture and traditions. It would be right to say that the forts of India are a fine example of architectural perfection. The structures might have withered, but the grandeur is and shall always remain intact. These forts convey undying stories about the glorious past, the love affair with bricks and mortar and most importantly; these forts talk about our heritage!
Following is our pick of the top 10 forts in India.
- Mehrangarh Fort – Jodhpur
The first name that I can think of when talking about the top 10 forts in India is the mighty Mehrangarh Fort. Overlooking the beautiful blue city, Jodhpur, the fort is the soul of the city. You have to be there to feel what grandeur and magnificence is all about.
It is one of the largest forts in the country and is more than 500 years old. There are several palaces inside the fort that are reckoned for their intricate carvings and detailed architecture.
- Old Fort – Delhi
Taking the charm of Mughal architecture to an all new level is the picturesque Old Fort of Delhi. Popularly referred to as Purana Quila, it is a beautiful structure. Fragrant breeze, sun setting in the distance and boating in the Purana Quila Lake, a memorable experience!
Enjoy the enthralling light and sound show at Old Fort! It is a one of its kind history lesson that you’ll thoroughly enjoy.
- Fort Aguada – Goa
Goa, the destination of unending beauty and magnificence! Fort Aguada is one of the most visited tourist attractions of Goa, after Basilica of Bom Jesus.
It is a Portuguese fort which was built in the 17th century. The picture perfect setting of the fort has made it a photographer’s delight. The view of the expansive Arabian Sea and the swaying palms has to be seen to be believed.
- Red Fort – Delhi
Relive the old world charm at Red Fort, Delhi. It is the one of the most famous monuments built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan and one of the most popular forts in India. It gets its name from the red sandstone wall – Lal Quila. Moti Masjid, Meena Bazaar, Diwan-i-Aam are integral parts of Red Fort.
You can enjoy the stunning light and sound show at the premises to know more about Mughal history. There is also an archaeological museum and war museum within the fort.
- Gwalior Fort – Gwalior
Talk about grandeur and you cannot miss the alluring Gwalior Fort, the pride of Gwalior city. The main attractions of the fort are – Saas-Bahu temple, Man Mandir and Gujari Mahal (which has now been converted into a museum).
- Amber Fort – Jaipur
When visiting the Pink City, a visit to the very beautiful Amber Fort is a must. Located in a small town of Amer, just 1km from Jaipur, the fort is the main tourist highlight.
I fall short of words when I have to express the beauty of Amber Fort. The exteriors are rugged, but the palaces within the fort speak volumes about the glorious past of the region.
- Kumbalgarh Fort – Kumbalgarh
The imposing Kumbalgarh Fort is an epitome of Rajputana stature and grandeur. The boundary wall of Kumbalgarh Fort extends over 36 km, the second largest wall after Great Wall of China.
Visit the fort in the evening and stay till sunset, that’s when the entire fort is lit up.
- Golconda Fort – Hyderabad
When in Hyderabad you cannot miss Hyderabadi Biryani, Pearls and the illustrious Golconda Fort. The fort was the capital of the kingdom of Golconda and was built more than 800 years ago.
The acoustics effects in the fort are marvelous. You need to visit the fort and clap your hands to know what am I talking about.
- Jaisalmer Fort – Jaisalmer
Overlooking Jaisalmer city is the opulent Jaisalmer Fort. Popularly known as Sonar Quila, it camouflages with the vast stretches of sand dunes of Thar Desert.
Built way back in 1156 AD, it is one of the largest forts of the world. Jain temples and royal palaces within the fort are a must see!
- Jaigarh Fort – Jaipur
Jaigarh Fort, also known as Victory Fort gives a swivel into Rajputana majesty and glory. The fort overlooks Amber Fort and Maota Lake. It was built in 1726.
The highlight of the fort is the cannon – ‘Jaivana’ which is world’s largest cannon on wheels.
So which of these have you visited and ticked off from the list. And which one you think is a must visit fort in India, do share it in the comments section below.
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