Shahpur Fort
Details: Shahpur Fort, also popularly known as the White Fort or Chandni Kila, is one of the most iconic landmarks situated just across the river from Daltonganj. Built in the 18th century by the descendants of the legendary Chero King Medini Rai, the fort stands as a testament to the late medieval architecture of the region. The fort is strategically located on a high bank of the North Koel River, which provided both a scenic view and a natural defensive barrier against invaders. Historically, this fort served as a secondary capital and a residential palace for the royal family when the main Palamu Forts were under threat. The structure is built primarily of brick and stone, finished with a distinct white lime plaster that gives it its "Chandni" (moonlight) name. Inside the fort, visitors can explore various residential chambers, a central courtyard, and several small shrines. The fort also houses the busts of King Medini Rai and his successors, which are highly revered by the local community. The view of the sunset from the fort's ramparts, reflecting on the wide expanse of the Koel River, is considered one of the most beautiful sights in all of Jharkhand. Despite the passage of time, much of the fort's exterior remains intact, though the interior shows signs of aging. The fort is a focal point of local pride and is frequently visited by students, historians, and tourists who want to understand the transition of power from the Cheros to the British era. Its proximity to the city makes it the most accessible historical site for visitors to Daltonganj.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 HoursPlace Type:
Historical MonumentEntry Fees:
Entry Fees:
Nominal Entry Fee: There is a very small entry fee of approximately 10 to 20 Rupees for adults, which goes towards the basic maintenance of the site.
Camera Charges: Professional photography or vi...Entry Fees:
Nominal Entry Fee: There is a very small entry fee of approximately 10 to 20 Rupees for adults, which goes towards the basic maintenance of the site.
Camera Charges: Professional photography or video filming may require an additional fee of 50 to 100 Rupees, depending on the equipment used.Timing:
Timings:
Regular
Timings: The fort is open to visitors from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. It is strictly closed to the public after dark for security reasons.
Ideal Visit Time: L...Timings:
Regular
Timings: The fort is open to visitors from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. It is strictly closed to the public after dark for security reasons.
Ideal Visit Time: Late afternoon between 3:30 PM and 4:30 PM is ideal, as the heat subsides and the lighting becomes perfect for photography and sightseeing.Special Events:
Special Event:
Medini Rai Jayanti: The birth anniversary of King Medini Rai is celebrated with great fervor at the fort, featuring traditional music, speeches, and floral offerings to his statue.
Republic Day and...Special Event:
Medini Rai Jayanti: The birth anniversary of King Medini Rai is celebrated with great fervor at the fort, featuring traditional music, speeches, and floral offerings to his statue.
Republic Day and Independence Day: The fort is often illuminated, and flag-hoisting ceremonies take place nearby, attracting large crowds.Best Photo Spots:
Best Photo Spots:
The Riverfront Ramparts: This is the classic shot—capturing the fort's white walls with the blue river flowing below.
The Main Entrance Gate: The arched gateway with its historical texture...Best Photo Spots:
The Riverfront Ramparts: This is the classic shot—capturing the fort's white walls with the blue river flowing below.
The Main Entrance Gate: The arched gateway with its historical textures makes for a perfect entry-point photograph.
Interior Courtyard Arches: The repeated arches of the inner chambers provide great depth-of-field opportunities for creative photography.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Things to Do:
Riverside Exploration: After visiting the fort, walk down to the banks of the North Koel River for a refreshing view and to see the fort from the water level.
Photography Session: The white walls provide an excellent contrast for portraits. Capture the fort during the "blue hour" just after sunset for magical results.
Paying Homage: Visit the busts of Medini Rai and other Chero kings to learn about their contributions to the region's welfare.
Bird Watching on the River: The riverbanks are home to various water birds, especially during the winter months.
Historical Study: Read the plaques and talk to the caretaker to understand the chronology of the fort's construction.
Information
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Why Famous:
Why Famous:
The White Beauty of Palamu: The fort is famous for its unique white appearance, which makes it stand out against the greenery of the riverbanks. It is often referred to as the 'Taj Mahal of Palamu' by local enthusiasts due to its...Why Famous:
The White Beauty of Palamu: The fort is famous for its unique white appearance, which makes it stand out against the greenery of the riverbanks. It is often referred to as the 'Taj Mahal of Palamu' by local enthusiasts due to its elegance.
Royal Chero Heritage: It is famous as the last major stronghold of the Chero dynasty before the British annexation of the region, making it a key site for regional history. -
Architecture:
Architecture:
Indo-Islamic Fusion: The architecture of Shahpur Fort displays a fascinating blend of local tribal aesthetics and Mughal-influenced Indo-Islamic styles, particularly in the arched doorways and domed kiosks. The use of 'Lahori' ...Architecture:
Indo-Islamic Fusion: The architecture of Shahpur Fort displays a fascinating blend of local tribal aesthetics and Mughal-influenced Indo-Islamic styles, particularly in the arched doorways and domed kiosks. The use of 'Lahori' bricks and fine lime plastering (Araish work) is evident in the surviving sections of the palace.
Dimension Details: The main palace building is a multi-storied structure covering an area of about 120 meters by 100 meters. The river-facing ramparts are nearly 10 meters high, while the central courtyard measures 30 meters square, designed to host royal audiences and cultural gatherings. -
How To Reach:
How to Reach:
By Air: The closest airport is Ranchi, followed by a road trip to Daltonganj.
By Train: Daltonganj Railway Station is less than 4 KMs away. You can reach the fort in 10 minutes by vehicle.
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Near Tourist Places:
1. Ranital Dam (6 KM), 2. Betla National Park (25 KM), 3. Kechki (15 KM), 4. Chianki Hill (8 KM), 5. Palamu Forts (28 KM), 6. Kali Mandir (2 KM), 7. Police Line Stadium (3 KM), 8. Kanti Falls (42 KM), 9. Netarhat (112 KM), 10. Lodh Falls (98 KM).
Tourism Tips
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Tourism Tips:
Health and Safety: The stairs inside the fort can be steep and uneven; use the handrails where available.
Packing Essentials: Carry a bottle of water and wear comfortable shoes. A sun hat is r...
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Information about New and Updated Locations(777+) of Jharkhand Has Been Added :-
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Ranital DamRaushan FortShahpur FortUdaigarh HaveliBasukinath DhamChadri PahadDudhani Clock TowerKapsio ForestMaluti TemplesMasanjor Water ReservoirMassanjor Dam Boating PointMassanjore Dam Mauliksha TempleMini DarjeelingMini Stone MountainNakti HillNandi Triangular Eye LandSamsukhaMore PlacesNote:-
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