Forts in India represent the magnanimity of the Royal Kingdoms of India, its rich cultural heritage and history. The majestic palaces and forts in India definitely spell binds you in its charm and will leave an indelible mark on you. Incredible India's deep manifested past can be experienced through these forts in India.
Incredible India has been embellished with some of the most majestic and beautiful forts in the world. Reflecting a rich cultural heritage, history and a good taste in architecture, these royal forts take one back in the glorious time of Maharajas. One cannot help but fall in love with these amazing pieces of ancient architecture that Incredible India is so proud of. Tourism in India has always been adventurous. Here are 7 famous Forts in India you must visit which will take you on ride to glorious empires of Incredible India :
1. City Palace, Jaipur, Rajasthan
City Palace, Jaipur (Pic Credits: Shaurya Ritwik)
The famous City Palace of Jaipur was constructed in the 18th century by Sawai Jai Singh II, the ruler of Amber. The palace is a beautiful amalgamation of Rajputana, Mughal and European styles of architecture. City Palace has magnificent collection of armory and weapons through ages, placed within the museum in the palace premises. Among all famous forts in India, City Palace is one the the most visited giving a big boost to tourism in India. If you are in Jaipur you can not miss to visit this amazing magnificent palace. You can also shop various Rajasthani handicrafts, clothes etc in palace premises.
2. Golconda Fort, Hyderabad, Telangana
Golconda Fort, Hyderabad, Telangana (Wikimedia Commans)
In Hyderabad you can not miss three things – Hyderabadi biryani, pearls and Golconda Fort, one of the famous forts in India. Golconda fort was the capital of the kingdom of Golconda and was built more than 800 years ago. Golkonda Fort was first built by the Kakatiya dynasty as part of their western defenses along the lines of the Kondapalli Fort. One of the most amazing features of this historic fort in Incredible India is the engineering marvels hidden in the nooks and crannies of the fort. For example, The Fateh Darwaza has an unbelievable acoustic effect. A clap at its entrance, can be heard a kilometer away at the Bala Hisar pavilion. The Golkonda Fort used to have a vault where once the world famous Koh-i-noor diamond and hope diamonds were stored along with other diamonds.
3. Chittorgarh Fort, Chittorgarh, Rajasthan
Chittorgarh Fort, Rajasthan (Wikimedia Commons)
The seat of Mewar rulers since 7th century, Chittorgarh Fort is the most spectacular fort among famous forts in India perched on a hill of 591ft of elevation. The unique feature of this fort is that it was self sufficient in water with 84 water bodies in the form of wells, ponds and step wells with the storage capacity of 4 billion litres of water. Chittorgarh Fort is also a UNESCO world heritage site. The two distinct pillars in the fort, the Kirti Stambh and the Vijay Stambh are extremely preciously carved with the most intricate artwork found in the region. This is the fort which have seen the spirit of Jauhar and Shaka. Chittorgarh fort represents the quintessence of tribute to the nationalism, courage and highest sacrifice exhibited by the Mewar rulers of Sisodia dynasty and their kinsmen and women and children. Chittorgarh is the story of Hindu resistance against Mughals and Islamic empires.
4. Gwalior Fort, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh
Gwalior Fort (Wikimedia Commons)
The Gwalior Fort is one of the most famous forts in India, not only because of its strong, military style architecture, but also because of the aesthetically painted fortress wall, that sports a bright and royal blue color in the carving. It has been inhabited and ruled by almost 110 rulers from different dynasties. The fort has been the witness of historic events like Tatya Tope fighting the British and Rani Laxmi Bai breathing her last. If you are in Gwalior you can not miss this historic beauty.
5. Agra Fort, Agra, Uttar Pradesh
Agra Fort (Wikimedia Commons)
Agra Fort is one of the most historic fort among famous forts in India, it is also UNESCO world heritage site. This fort in India has a rich history, it was here from here the world famous koh-i-noor diamond was seized by the Mughal ruler Babar. Three of the most aesthetically designed complexes in Agra fort are the Khas Mahal, Shish Mahal, and the octagonal tower of Muhammam Burj. So if you are in Agra to see magnificent Taj Mahal, don't forget to check out Agra Fort.
6. Jaigarh Fort, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Jaigarh Fort (Wikimedia Commons)
Jaigarh Fort is also known as Victory Fort, it gives an insight into Rajputana majesty and glory. The fort overlooks Amber Fort and Maota lake. The fort was built by Jai Singh II in 1726 to protect the Amber Fort and its palace complex and was named after him. Jaigarh Fort was a centre of artillery production for the Rajputs. The fort has a cannon named "Jaivana", which was manufactured in the fort precincts and was then the world's largest cannon on wheels.
Jaivana, world's largest cannon on wheels (Pic Credit : Shaurya Ritwik)
7. Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajasthan
Kumbhalgarh fort (Wikimedia Commons)
The mighty Kumbhalgarh Fort is an epitome of Rajputana stature and grandeur with boundary wall which extends over 36 km, the second largest wall after Great Wall of China. The sheer massiveness of fort makes it a must visit. Kumbhalgarh Fort was built was Rana Kumbha in 15th century, Rana Kumbha is said to never lost a battle in life. Kumbhalgarh is also the birthplace of Maharana Pratap, the greatest king and warrior of Mewar. One interesting fact is that Kumbhalgarh Fort has never been conquered.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your next trip to these marvellous historic famous forts in India, dip in rich cultural heritage of Incredible India.
– By Shaurya Ritwik, Shaurya is Sub-Editor at NewsGram and writes on Geo-politcs, Culture, Indology and Business. Twitter Handle – @shauryaritwik
