Bagsar Fort
Sub Place Details: The Kangra Fort, locally known as Nagarkot or Kot Kangra, is one of the oldest and largest forts in India, dating back over 3,500 years to the Trigarta Kingdom mentioned in the Mahabharata. This massive structure was built by the Katoch kings and has witnessed countless sieges by invaders like Mahmud Ghazni, Jahangir, and Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Perched on a high cliff at the confluence of the Banganga and Manjhi rivers, it offers a commanding view of the surrounding valleys. The fort was heavily damaged during the 1905 earthquake but still retains its majestic aura and historical significance. Exploring the fort takes you through seven massive gates, ancient temples, and deep wells that once held legendary treasures. It remains a symbol of Rajput valor and the enduring spirit of the Himalayan hill states. Visitors can spend hours walking through its vast courtyards and learning about the royal lineage through the on-site museum. The fort serves as a bridge between the ancient Vedic era and the medieval history of Northern India. Its strategic location made it the key to controlling the entire Kangra valley for centuries. Today, it is managed by the Archaeological Survey of India and stands as a premier destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
3 to 4 HoursPlace Type:
Historic Fort & MonumentEntry Fees:
Ticket Pricing: Entry is 150 INR for Indian nationals and 300 INR for Foreigners.
Additional Costs: Audio guides and museum entry may cost an extra 100 INR to 150 INR per person. ...Ticket Pricing: Entry is 150 INR for Indian nationals and 300 INR for Foreigners.
Additional Costs: Audio guides and museum entry may cost an extra 100 INR to 150 INR per person.Timing:
Regular Timings: The fort is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning or late afternoon is best to avoid the midday sun and enjoy better lighting for photos. ...Regular Timings: The fort is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning or late afternoon is best to avoid the midday sun and enjoy better lighting for photos.Special Events:
Maharana Sansar Chand Jayanti: Celebrated in May with cultural performances and rituals by the royal family.
Independence Day: A ceremonial flag hoisting takes place on the fort ramparts every August. ...Maharana Sansar Chand Jayanti: Celebrated in May with cultural performances and rituals by the royal family.
Independence Day: A ceremonial flag hoisting takes place on the fort ramparts every August.Best Photo Spots:
The Main Gateway: The entrance gate with its massive wooden doors provides a royal backdrop for portraits.
The Upper Palace Courtyard: Offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the Kangra valley and snow peaks.
Jaha...The Main Gateway: The entrance gate with its massive wooden doors provides a royal backdrop for portraits.
The Upper Palace Courtyard: Offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the Kangra valley and snow peaks.
Jahangiri Darwaza: Perfect for capturing the intricate Mughal-inspired stone carvings.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Historical Exploration: Walk through the seven gates and explore the ruins of the royal palaces.
Museum Visit: Spend time at the Maharaja Sansar Chand Museum to see artifacts and old photographs.
Temple Pilgrimage: Visit the Ambika Devi Temple and the Laxmi Narayan Temple located within the fort premises.
Audio Tour: Take an audio guide narrated by the royal family to understand the secret history of each section.
River Viewpoint: Walk to the edge of the ramparts to see the confluence of the Banganga and Manjhi rivers.
Photography: Capture the stunning contrast of the ancient stone walls against the Dhauladhar mountain range.
Trekking: Hike up the steep stone pat...
Information
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Why Famous:
Historical Significance: It is famous as the oldest dated fort in India and the largest in the Himalayas. It represents the power of the Katoch dynasty.
Treasure Wells: The fort is known for its 21 deep treasure wells, which sparked many in...Historical Significance: It is famous as the oldest dated fort in India and the largest in the Himalayas. It represents the power of the Katoch dynasty.
Treasure Wells: The fort is known for its 21 deep treasure wells, which sparked many invasions throughout history. -
Architecture:
The Grand Katoch Design: The fort features high ramparts and 23 bastions spread over 463 acres. It is built using massive stone blocks and follows the natural contour of the hill for defense.
Dimensions and Gates: The interior circumference...The Grand Katoch Design: The fort features high ramparts and 23 bastions spread over 463 acres. It is built using massive stone blocks and follows the natural contour of the hill for defense.
Dimensions and Gates: The interior circumference is about 4 kilometers. It houses 7 prominent gates, including the Jahangiri Darwaza and Ranjit Singh Darwaza, which display a blend of Mughal and Hindu styles. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Gaggal Airport is just 14 KMs away with regular flights from Delhi.
By Train: The Kangra Mandir station on the narrow-gauge line is the closest, while Pathankot (87 KMs) is the major broad-gauge hub.
By ... -
Near Tourist Places:
Brijeshwari Temple (3 KMs), Kangra Art Museum (4 KMs), Masroor Rock Cut Temple (32 KMs), Jawala Ji Temple (34 KMs), Dharamshala (20 KMs), McLeod Ganj (25 KMs), Chamunda Devi (24 KMs), Palampur (40 KMs), Tashi Jong Monastery (50 KMs), Baijnath Temple (55 KMs).
Tourism Tips
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Health and Safety: Wear sturdy shoes as the stone paths are uneven and steep in many places.
Packing: Carry a water bottle and sunscreen, as there is limited shade in the upper sections of the fort.
Accommodatio...
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