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Forts in Kashmir stand as enduring symbols of the region’s storied past, blending strategic significance with architectural brilliance. These ancient structures, built by emperors and dynasties, offer a glimpse into Kashmir’s cultural evolution and historical power struggles. From forts overlooking the scenic Srinagar landscapes to those nestled deep in the mountains, each site reveals tales of valor, heritage, and legacy. Beyond the valley’s famed natural beauty, these fortifications present a compelling reason to explore. For history lovers, culture seekers, or curious travellers, discovering these forts is a journey through time in the heart of paradise.
Top 10 Forts In Kashmir
Forts in Kashmir stand as reminders of its royal and military past. Some date back to the Mughals, others rise from older hilltops, and all combine history with sweeping views.
1. Hari Parbat Fort
Photo: Shibnaths2 / Wikimedia Commons
Built in the late 16th century during the rule of Emperor Akbar, Hari Parbat Fort stands atop a hill and overlooks the city of Srinagar. The fort has served as both a Mughal bastion and later as a stronghold for the Afghans and Sikhs. Besides its stout walls and defences, the fort is surrounded by sites of great religious significance, including Hindu temples, a Gurdwara, and Sufi shrines, making the fort a spiritual as well as historical monument. The panoramic view of Dal Lake, the city of Srinagar, and the Himalayan ranges is a reward for those trekking up to the fort. Hari Parbat Fort of Srinagar.
Location: Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport
Suggested Read: Akhnoor Fort
2. Bahu Fort
Photo: Ashish3724 / Wikimedia Commons
Across the Tawi River, Bahu Fort is one of the historical forts in the Kashmir region, dating back 3000 years to Raja Bahulochan. It has been renovated by the Dogra rulers inside the fort: a devoted person would find himself visiting a site of historic significance to some, as the Bawe Wali Mata Temple is revered by the Goddess Kali, housed inside the fort. Colonised by the stone walls and arched gates of the fort, the temple draws lakhs of devotees every week. The well-maintained Bagh-e-Bahu garden encircles the fort, making it suitable for family outings, picnics, and photography.
Location: Jammu, Jammu & Kashmir
Nearest Airport: Jammu Airport
3. Akhnoor Fort
Photo: Amit Tickoo / Shutterstock
All made to perfection, this majestic riverside fort stands as one of the best forts in Kashmir for its strong battlements, arched gateways, and stunning views of the river, cross-flowing the features that it joined hands with historical significance, the first military post of these territories known as Akhnoor. Innocence had archaeological importance; the diggings around have displayed artifacts that seem to date back to the Indus Valley civilization. Passing through the fort provides glimpses of both medieval Dogra architecture and the continuity of ancient India. Akhnoor Fort stands on the banks of the Chenab River in Akhnoor town.
Location: Akhnoor, Jammu district, Jammu & Kashmir
Nearest Airport: Jammu Airport
Suggested Read: Hari Parbat Fort
4. Mubarak-Mandi Palace
Photo: Jehangir / Wikimedia Commons
The palace of Mubarak Mandi and the complex of a fort are the jewels in the crown of Dogra heritage in Jammu. For over 150 years, it was the royal residence of the Dogra kings, and this magnificent complex is characterized by an amalgamation of the Rajasthani, Mughal, and European forms of architecture manifested with intricately carved windows, courtyards, and domes. The Sheesh Mahal, with its marvelous mirrorwork, and the Pink Hall, now housing the Dogra Museum of Art, are highlights at the fort. This museum has brought together manuscripts, paintings, and artifacts that belonged to the Dogra dynasty.
Location: Jammu, Jammu & Kashmir
Nearest Airport: Jammu Airport
5. Poonch Fort
Photo: Second Breakfast / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Poonch, one of the popular forts in Kashmir, occupies an area of 7,500 square meters and is nothing less than a symbol of this royal past. The initiation of construction for it was carried out by Raja Abdul Razaq Khan in the late 18th century and was completed by rulers who came after him. The design of the fort is reminiscent of Mughal, Dogra, and Sikh influences, thus combining myriad styles into that structure. This historical fort, which was once a place of power for rulers of Poonch, dazzles on looking at its enormous size.
Location: Poonch, Jammu & Kashmir
Nearest Airport: Jammu Airport
Suggested Read: Top Forts In Jammu
6. Hiranagar Fort
Photo: Abhishek Sagar / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Raja Hira Singh built Hiranagar Fort, known today as Jasmergarh Fort, in the mid-19th century in the Kathua district. The fort became the administrative centre cum military headquarters for the Dogra rulers. It included even a jail, as remnants of its cells are visible today. Though part of the fort is in ruins, restoration works have been done to preserve its heritage. The fort has a tower or similar elevated location through which one can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding fields and villages. This site happens to be very interesting for people who want to delve into Dogra history beyond the ordinary tourist path of Jammu and Srinagar.
Location: Hiranagar, Kathua district, Jammu & Kashmir
Nearest Airport: Jammu Airport
7. Ramnagar Fort
Photo: Damandogra17 / Wikimedia Commons
In the Udhampur district lies the fort of Ramnagar, constructed by Raja Suchet Singh in the 19th century. This fort is remarkable and drew attention due to its sandstone walls with decorative arches and artistic carvings. Moreover, it contains temples, palatial halls, and underground chambers that once served military purposes. There’s still a dedicated temple to Lord Shiva inside the fort, which lures devotees even today. Others include arms, coins, and manuscripts, telling tales of the Dogra reign. The structure is said to have been revived by the restoration projects. Thus, it is an excellent example of the very much preserved regional architecture.
Location: Ramnagar, Udhampur district, Jammu & Kashmir
Nearest Airport: Jammu Airport
Suggested Read: Visit The Historic Bahu Fort Jammu For An Enriching Experience
8. Zorawar Fort
Photo: Pravin Wakode / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Zorawar Fort gets its name from General Zorawar Singh, the Dogra military commander who extended the limits of the kingdom into Ladakh. Founded in 1836, Zorawar Fort is situated in Leh and controlled the trade and defence routes of the area. Today, it has a small museum that comprises old coins, stamps, and arms used during Zorawar Singh’s campaigns. The fort also has evening light-and-sound shows, which narrate its history. Built at a higher elevation, it provides great views of Leh and the mountains beyond. It’s a must-visit for those curious about Ladakh’s Dogra connection, which in itself has great strategic importance in Himalayan history.
Location: Leh, Ladakh
Nearest Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport
9. Sher Garhi Palace And Fort
Photo: Danielle Barnes / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The Afghan governors of the 18th century erected the Sher Garhi Palace and Fort as a seat of power in Srinagar. Set along the banks of the Jhelum River, the fort-palace complex offered a stunning example of sprawling Mughal-inspired architecture with its extensive courtyards and intricate designs, only to be turned into a cozy abode by Dogra rulers later. Although the site is partially dilapidated today, plans are being drawn up to restore it. The palace-fort even today has its former luster of Kashmir’s royal past and forms an interesting spot to glimpse a little of Srinagar’s heritage beyond gardens and lakes.
Location: Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport
Suggested Read: Everything You Need to Know About Bhimgarh Fort
10. Leh Palace
Photo: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons
Leh Palace, much touted as a palace, is actually one of the historical forts in Kashmir, built in the 17th century by King Sengge Namgyal. It resembles the architectural design of Lhasa’s Potala Palace. This place stood proud to be a nine-storey-high palace, living happily as a home for Ladakhi kings and their descendants. Today, it houses a museum showcasing royal costumes, jewellery, and artefacts. The weathered palace walls still stand against the backdrop of Leh’s mountains and create a stunningly strong framework. The view from above is breathtaking as it offers panoramic images over Leh town and the Stok Kangri peaks.
Location: Leh, Ladakh
Nearest Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport
The forts in Kashmir, Jammu, and Ladakh are more than historic structures—they’re storytellers of the region’s dynasties, wars, and cultural evolution. From Hari Parbat’s grandeur to Leh Palace and Zorawar Fort’s mystique, each site offers scenic views and rich heritage. Whether it’s Bahu Fort’s gardens or Mubarak Mandi’s regal aura, every visit deepens your journey. Let TripXL guide you to these timeless landmarks and top museums with ease.
Cover Photo: Illyas Ahmed / Wikimedia Commons
