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Akhnoor Fort is a beautiful fort with a rustic charm. It is a remarkable monument situated on a cliff. It is believed to have been built in the 19th century, showcasing the elements from both foreign Mughal and native Sikh styles – bastions, thick walls, and ornate gateways. It has a two-storied palace with gorgeous arches and murals. This fort is a witness to several battles and political changes over the centuries. It is now a very popular tourist attraction that serves as a reflection of the past. It has been protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Quick Details About Akhnoor Fort
Built In: 1762-1802 CE
Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Akhnoor Fort Timings: 24*7
Location
Photo: Zuck / Wikimedia Commons
Akhnoor Fort is located in the small town of Akhnoor in Jammu, on the bank of River Chenab. It is around 28 km away from Jammu city.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Jammu
How To Reach Akhnoor Fort
Photo: JoachimKohler-HB / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Due to its proximity to Jammu city, it is very easy to reach the Akhnoor Fort. It is 35 km from Jammu airport, 33km from Jammu Tawi Railway Station, and 30km from Jammu Bus Stand. You can either take local transport from Jammu or hire a private taxi to reach this fort. The journey will take approximately 45 to 50 minutes.
Places To Visit Nearby Akhnoor Fort
Tourists can visit other attractions as well on their trip to Akhnoor fort and can alos explore the nearby places which can be clubbed with the visit to iconic Akhnoor Fort:
1. Amar Mahal
Photo: Pp saha / Wikimedia Commons
Amar Mahal Palace is a famous tourist attraction that shares a glimpse of the royal past of Jammu. It houses several artefacts, Kangra miniature paintings, a library with, 25000 historic books, and a valuable collection of art pieces. The most attractive artefact is the Golden Throne, weighing 120kg. Wonderful pictures of the last Dogra emperor are also on display. The view from the palace is also beautiful as it gives a nice view of River Tawi.
Location: Palace Road, Karan Nagar, Jammu Tawi, Jammu
Suggested Read: Offbeat Places In Kashmir
2. Mansar Lake
Photo: Pranavmagotra03 / Wikimedia Commons
Mansa Lake is a picturesque lake surrounded by a forest of pine trees. It holds a lot of importance for the devotees and locals as it is connected to the sacred Mansarovar Lake in Tibet. The eastern bank of the lake has the shrine of Sheshnag, the lord of Serpents, and is a popular attraction. The Durga and Umapati Mahadev temples are also there in the vicinity. Tourists also enjoy a boat ride on the lake, spot numerous fishes and tortoises in the water, and observe seasonal birds from the view decks.
Location: On the bypass between Samba and Udhampur
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM
Boating Cost/Person: ₹100 per hour
3. Mubarak Mandi Palace
Photo: J P Dutt / Wikimedia Commons
Mubarak Mandi Palace is a magnificent structure that used to be the main seat of the Dogra Dynasty rulers until 1925. It was built over 150 years ago. This monument is full of grandeur with its domes, columns, and arches. The Pink Hall in the palace has been converted into a museum called the Government Dogra Art Museum and is known as one of the richest museums in the world. Tourists must visit this place to get a glimpse of the rich and royal past of Jammu.
Location: 5 km from Jammu Airport and 1.5 km from Jammu Bus Stand
Timings: 9 AM – 6 AM, closed on Mondays
Suggested Read: Museums In Jammu And Kashmir
4. Purmandal Temple
Photo: Snehrashmi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Purmandal is a beautiful stone temple with historical significance. It is considered a sacred destination and is also called Chhota Kashi. Umapati, or Goddess Parvati is the presiding deity in this temple. The temple’s outstanding architecture and fascinating history attract a lot of devotees all year round. The best time to visit here is in February during Purmandal Mela, every year, which goes on for three days. You must pay a visit here to witness its outstanding stone architecture and to seek the blessings of the Goddess.
Location: 30 km to the east of Jammu
Timings: 5 AM – 9:30 PM
5. Krimchi Temples
Photo: SURAM SINGH RAJPUT / Wikimedia Commons
The Krimchi group of temples are beautiful ancient temples that date back to the 11th-12th century AD. Locally, these temples are called the Pandava Temples. There are seven Hindu temples at this site, all dedicated to Lord Shiva. The location of the temple is very interesting, with a stone complex and a small stream flowing at a close distance. The main temple is around 50 feet high and has sculptures of Lord Shiva, Ganesha, and Parvati inside the temple.
Location: Krimchi village in Udhampur
Timings: 7:30 AM – 5 PM
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Where To Stay Nearby Akhnoor Fort
Photo: Anubhav Sinha / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
There are a lot of good accommodation options around this fort. You will find good amenities, hygiene, and hospitality here – Hotel Bali Resort Extension, Van Durga Villas & Suites, Itsy Satya Shree, Saatvik Homestay, Hotel Arihant Palace, and many more.
Where To Eat Around Akhnoor Fort
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
You will find many good eating joints and hotels that offer lip-smacking food – Sunder Villa Restaurant, Jammu Coffee House, NewYork Pizzeria Akhnoor, Chenab View Restaurant, Mahadev Fast Food, K Smart Cafe, and more. You will find a wide range of eating options as per your liking.
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Factors To Consider
Photo: Sanu N / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Tourists who wish to visit this fort near Jammu must consider the following factors while planning:
Average Cost of The Trip
The cost of visiting this masterpiece is very minimal. There is an entry fee of ₹ 25 for each adult. Apart from this, there is only transportation cost that can be added to it. It is a very minimal cost to witness this architecture.
The Akhnoor Fort attracts a lot of tourists owing to its rich history and huge collection of antiquities. Tourists love to explore this fort and witness and appreciate the cultural and historical tapestry of the area. People who love to explore history and culture must not miss visiting this fort. It will enchant you with its architectural beauty, surrounding landscape, and historical significance. So, plan a trip with TripXL to witness this marvel.
Cover Photo: Ilyas Ahmed / Wikimedia Commons
