Anupgarh Fort is a historically important attraction in Anupgarh, Rajasthan. It was built in the 17th century by the Mughal Governor Shahbaz Khan Kamboh. Located on the India-Pakistan border, the fortress served as a strong point of defence. Unlike some luxurious buildings in Rajasthan, this has the weathered beauty of rustic walls. The fort is surrounded by agricultural land and the river Ghaggar, offering a scenic view. The isolation and tranquillity afforded by the desert make it a great place to visit.
Quick Details About Anupgarh Fort
Location: Anupgarh, Rajasthan
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Nearest Airport: Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, Amritsar (320 km away)
Nearest Railway Station: Suratgarh Junction, 80 km away
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Location
Photo: Stalinjeet Brar / Wikimedia Commons
The Anupgarh Fort lies in Anupgarh, a small border town located in the northwest part of Rajasthan, next to the India-Pakistan border. It is situated in the Sri Ganganagar district of Anupgarh. The roads leading to the fort are Anupgarh’s main market road, which is connected to Geeta Chowk, Seth Bihari Lal Chhabra Marg, Bikaner Road, and Kayal Marg. Many lanes surround the fort. The nearby landmarks are Dimension Academy, Sharan Health Club, Chandi Gym Anupgarh, and Mohit Chhabra ki Kothi.
How To Reach
Photo: TeshTesh / Wikimedia Commons
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bikaner Airport, 150 km from Anupgarh. Another option is Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar, about 320 km from Anupgarh. You can take a taxi or even a bus to the fort from the airport.
- By Railway: Suratgarh Junction is around 80 km away from Anupgarh, and Anupgarh railway station is the nearest railway station. You can take a taxi or a bus from the railway station to reach the fort.
- By Road: There are regular bus services from major towns around Suratgarh and Bikaner. The nearest to the fort, at 3 km, is the Anupgarh bus depot. You can also hire a private taxi to reach the fort more conveniently.
Things To Do Around Anupgarh Fort
1. Explore the Fort’s Architecture
Photo: Shmunmun / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Anupgarh Fort has a unique appeal because of its history and military purpose, which defined its current look. The entire structure is a unique mix between a Mughal and a Rajput building. Climbing the elongated, ruined corridors and observing massive, ancient structures, you can notice that this fort served in battling numerous invasions during its history. The scarred walls and the cordon of the fort still stand in place, providing a great spot for any history enthusiast. The local guides can tell you the garrison’s story and highlight the fort’s importance in the Mughal-Maratha war of the 18th century.
2. Enjoy Scenic Views Of The Desert
Photo: sushmita balasubramani / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
One of the greatest attractions that Anupgarh Fort offers is the fantastic view. The fort is on a hill, and people can see the Thar Desert. It is a great place to watch the sunset. The whole desert is lit by the golden rays of the sun. It is a great opportunity for photographers to take unique photos of the place. For people who prefer solitude, it is an awesome way to spend time in a peaceful place. There are various bird species within the surroundings of Anupgarh.
Places To Visit Around Anupgarh Fort
1. Suratgarh
Photo: Bhuvantoo / Wikimedia Commons
Suratgarh is situated about 80 km from Anupgarh. It has a unique and significant historical and industrial importance in Rajasthan. One of the main attractions is the Suratgarh Thermal Power Plant, which is the region’s main source of electricity. Individuals interested in engineering and power generation are welcome to attend educational tours and see how electricity is generated. Suratgarh is also known as Suratgarh Military Station, a major military base situated in the town where regular military exercises and training are performed. Therefore, this town combines unique industrial, military, and cultural importance.
Timings: Varies by location
Entry Fee: Free
2. Laila Majnu Masar
Photo: Anonymous / Wikimedia Commons
Laila Majnu Ki Mazar is a place near Anupgarh in Rajasthan and is 11 km from the Anupgarh Fort. It is believed to be the final resting place for the lovers Laila and Majnu. The mausoleum, a simple structure compared to the arid landscape, attracts couples seeking blessings for love. An annual Urs festival is held here, and lovers, pilgrims, and visitors pay their respects. This is an important cultural site as one moves through the state of Rajasthan in search of romantic lore. Local people say that on festivals, couples come to the graves of Laila and Majnu to seek their blessings for lifelong love together.
Timings: Open all the time
Entry Fee: None
3. Shahid Bhagat Singh Public Park
Photo: Georgfotoart / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Shahid Bhagat Singh Public Park is only a 10-minute walk from Anupgarh Fort, Rajasthan. This public park is dedicated to the memory of Bhagat Singh, the famous Indian freedom fighter. It remains a well-maintained park with lush green lawns, colourful flower beds, and several shady trees. It is a quiet abode for locals who come here for morning and evening walks. It has play areas for kids, walking and jogging tracks, and adequate benches for visitors. There is also a statue of Bhagat Singh in the park. The park hosts community events and cultural functions that bring the community together by providing a venue for fun and recreation.
Timings: Open all hours
Entry Fee: None
4. Gauri Shankar Temple
Photo: Viraat Kothare / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Gauri Shankar Temple in Anupgarh, Rajasthan, is a sacred Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati temple. The carvings and pillars are of typical Rajasthani architecture and speak of the artistry that defines the place. The place is spiritually and deeply held sacrosanct, especially during Mahashivaratri. Many devotees come here to receive the blessings of the gods. The serene atmosphere of this place encourages meditation and time for reflection and thus makes it a spiritual haven. It supports cultural activities of all religious kinds, therefore fostering unity within the community.
Timings: 5 AM – 10 PM
Entry Fee: None
5. Balaji Dham
Photo: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Balaji Dham is a holy destination for Hindus in Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan. It is approximately 120 km from Anupgarh Fort. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, referred to as Balaji. The devotees visit this place to receive blessings for strength, courage, and protection. Its architectural designs are traditional, with intricate carvings on walls. Many religious ceremonies and festivals are held in this temple, notably on Hanuman Jayanti, during which huge crowds gather to join the prayers and rituals. Balaji Dham is a cultural center where people gather and participate in various activities, elevating the spirit of community and devotion.
Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM
Entry Fee: None
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Shemaroo / Wikimedia Commons
- Best Time To Visit: The Anupgarh Fort is in the eastern part of the Thar Desert. Due to the extremely high temperature of Rajasthan, it is recommended to visit here from October to March.
- Accessibility: Anupgarh is located close to the India-Pakistan border, in a remote part of Rajasthan. The fort is therefore less accessible than some other popular tourist destinations in the region.
- Tips for travellers: Carry enough water, especially if you are going to explore the fort and its surrounding land. Check for the availability of toilet facilities and shops, as there are fewer eating options around this place.
Anupgarh Fort is a fascinating hidden place in the depths of the wild deserts of Rajasthan. It is a mix of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles and has numerous points to oversee the infinite desert. The Ganga Canal and Suratgarh Dam are excellent places to go from Anupgarh Fort. So, plan your trip to Rajasthan with TripXL today.
Cover Photo: Anonymous / Wikimedia Commons