India’s numerous mighty forts still stand tall, sentinels of its enduring past. Mayur Sanap chooses 10 favourites.
Gingee Fort, Tamil Nadu
Popularly known as the Great Wall of South India, in Villupuram district, the majestic fortress is perched atop Rajagiri, Krishnagiri, Chandragiri hills and is visited by nature and history enthusiasts.
Kangra Fort, Himachal Pradesh
Against the backdrop of the stunning Dhauladhars, Kot Kangra is a step back in time to the royal Katoch dynasty, architects of the magnificent structure, largest in the Himalayas, spread across 463 acres.
Akbar Fort, Uttar Pradesh
One of the most impressive and visited attractions of Allahabad, it is on the banks of the Yamuna near the famous Triveni Sangam and was built by Emperor Akbar.
Golconda Fort, Telangana
Outside Hyderabad, built in the 13th century by the Kakatiya dynasty, folks come to the fort to see the ruins -- cannons, drawbridges, ornate gateways.
Murud-Janjira Fort, Maharashtra
In the Arabian sea, near Murud, Raigad & one of the most stunning Indian coastal forts. Built by the Siddis, impregnable, it witnessed many attacks by Marathas, British, Portuguese & remained unconquered.
Mehrangarh Fort, Rajasthan
A must-inclusion on your Sun City itinerary, the haughty Jodhpur hilltop fort was built several centuries ago by Rao Jodha, 15th Rathore ruler of Marwar.
Mirjan Fort, Karnataka
Built with gorgeous red laterite, the stunning 16th c fort is one of the many attractions of blue-water Gokarna, Uttara Kannada. Inside: Check out the ancient wells, secret outlets, 4 massive entrance gates.
Bekal Fort, Kerala
Given its architectural beauty & panoramic Arabian sea views, Kerala's largest fort is a go-to shooting spot for commercials and films (Think Manisha Koirala-Arvind Swamy's Tu Hi Re in Bombay).
Ahilya Fort, Madhya Pradesh
The awesome Narmada riverside fortress at Maheshwar was a rajwada (royal house) for Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar, a proud monarch of the Maratha Empire. See the several temples inside.
Bhismaknagar Fort, Arunachal Pardesh
Amidst the lush Lower Dibang valley lies Bhismaknagar fort which is said to be the oldest archaeological site of the region.