Exploring Ita Fort: A Historical Landmark With Rich Heritage And Scenic Views

Ruins of an ancient fort with crumbling walls, and a sense of historical grandeur.

Ita Fort is situated in Arunachal Pradesh’s capital city, Itanagar. Constructed in the 14th and 15th centuries. It was built with more than 80 lakh bricks. The fort is a historical masterpiece whose name “Ita” means “brick”. Ita Fort offers a unique look into the history with its strategic design and exceptional brick construction. This fort not only demonstrates the sophisticated building methods of the era but also offers a tranquil haven in the heart of the forest.

Location

Dikrong River flowing through a scenic landscape with lush greenery and tranquil waters.

Photo: Mrkrish / Wikimedia Commons

Ita Fort is located in the lush greenery of Arunachal Pradesh. It is a remarkable example of India’s rich cultural legacy and ancient architectural competence. Itanagar’s central districts are easily accessible from the fort using several transit options, such as local buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis.

Suggested Read: Discover Top Things To Do In Arunachal Pradesh

How To Reach Ita Fort

Donyi Polo Airport with its modern terminal, set against a backdrop of rolling hills.

Photo: SlowPhoton / Wikimedia Commons

By Air: Lilabari Airport, located in North Lakhimpur, Assam, is the closest airport and is roughly 67 kilometers away from Itanagar. To get to the city from the airport, you can either take a bus or hire a taxi.

By Road: Regular bus services and private taxis are available for road travel to Itanagar from large towns like Guwahati. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are easily accessible modes of local transportation from Itanagar to the fort.

By Train: The closest train station to Itanagar is Harmuti in Assam, which is around 33 kilometers away. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to the fort.

Places To Visit Near Ita Fort

1. Ganga Lake

Ganga Lake surrounded by hills, with clear, serene waters reflecting the landscape.

Photo: Mrkrish / Wikimedia Commons

Ganga Lake is positioned on the outskirts and is covered by overgrown trees, which is about 6 miles from the fort. The Ganga Lake is also known as Gekar Sinyi. The lake is a well-known spot for picnics and boating, allowing guests to embrace the peace of nature. The region is ideal for those who enjoy the outdoors because of its abundance of vegetation and fauna. Ganga Lake offers numerous chances for photographers and nature lovers to take photographs of incredible panoramas and picturesque settings.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Arunachal Pradesh

2. Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum

Galo tribe diorama displaying traditional attire, and daily life in detailed miniature form.

Photo: AshLin / Wikimedia Commons

The state museum is located approximately 3 kilometers from the fort. The museum provides an in-depth exploration of the incredible cultural legacy of Arunachal Pradesh. The visitors can gain a thorough insight into the history and culture of the region by viewing traditional handicrafts, fabrics, musical instruments, and archaeological relics shown at the museum. Every single display tells a story about the various tribes that make up the area’s dense population. Arunachal Pradesh’s history and ontology are covered in a substantial portion of the works in the museum’s library department.

3. Polo Park

View of Polo Park with well-maintained grounds, lush greenery, and recreational areas.

Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Polo Park is a small botanical park positioned on a hilltop in Naharlagun, Itanagar. It is about 3 miles from the fort. The park is well-known for its rare plant species, immaculate gardens, and little zoo with guinea pigs and rabbits. The park is a great place for a stroll and provides a lovely perspective of the surroundings. You can visit the handicrafts center maintained by the Arunachal Pradesh Industries Department.

Suggested Read: Wildlife Sanctuaries In Arunachal Pradesh For Every Wildlife Enthusiast

4. Buddhist Gompa (Itanagar Gompa)

Image of buddhist temple in Arunachal Pradesh - places to visit near the Ita fort.

Photo: Rohit Sharma / Wikimedia Commons

This stunning Buddhist monastery is set on a hilltop in Itanagar, about 4 miles from Ita Fort. There are expansive views of the town and the hills around it from the Gompa. It is a location of spiritual importance and peace that draws tourists with its calm surroundings and traditional Buddhist structures. The temple includes paintings and prayer wheels offering viewpoints of the town. In addition to drawing academics and people interested in Buddhist philosophy, the Gompa is a center for the study of Buddhist literature.

5. Indira Gandhi Park

Body of water surrounded by trees, with calm, reflective waters framed by lush foliage.

Photo: Torsten Kellermann / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Indira Gandhi Park is a well-maintained public park in the center of Itanagar, next to Ita Fort. The park’s lovely landscaping, walking trails, and open areas draw both residents and visitors. It’s the perfect spot to chill and take in the lovely weather. The park offers various cultural activities and celebrations, making it more vibrant and joyful. Those who want to flee from the bustling city can plan a weekend break at the park, where they can meditate, jog, or relax in the fresh air.

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Tawang For An Unforgettable Experience

Where To Stay

Interior of an elegant hotel room featuring luxurious furnishings, stylish decor.

Photo: Kirti Phadke / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Arunachal Pradesh’s capital city, Itanagar, offers a variety of accommodation options that cater to plenty of spending limits and tastes. Think about lodging options like Hotel Arun Subansiri, which has modern facilities and a convenient location. For those seeking a more lavish experience, the Donyi Polo Ashok Hotel offers superior facilities like a restaurant and stunning views. Local hotels like Hotel Blue Pine and guesthouses provide reasonably priced accommodation for guests on a limited budget.

Where To Eat

 White and brown cooked dish served in white ceramic bowls, showcasing appetizing meals.

Photo: Chan Walrus / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

There are several places for dining in Itanagar, the surrounding city when you’re visiting the fort. A delicious fusion of traditional Arunachali flavors and Assamese influences may be found in the local cuisine. Visit small nearby eateries that sell specialties like momos, thukpa, and bamboo shoots for a genuine experience. Enjoy a delicious lunch at popular restaurants like The Gyakar Restaurant and Hotel Todo, which serve a range of Indian and local cuisine. Apong, a rice beer that is common in Arunachal Pradesh.

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Itanagar on your next vacation To Arunachal Pradesh

Other Things To Consider

People walking on a scenic trail, surrounded by natural beauty and lush greenery.

Photo: Xuân Thống Trần / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Average Cost Of The Trip: Ita Fort entrance fees are ₹20 for adults and ₹10 for children. However, the average total cost ranges from ₹1,000 to ₹2,500 per person. Depending on your holiday plans and preferences, this estimate covers basic meals, transportation, and entry fees.

Tips For The Travellers

  • Wear sturdy footwear due to the uneven terrain.
  • Carry water and snacks, It’s a good idea to be prepared as there might not be many amenities nearby.
  • You can hire a local guide to make the most of your trip, who can offer insightful historical background and captivating stories.

Ita Fort is a journey through time that provides a deep connection to India’s ancient history; it is more than just a historical landmark. The fort offers a fascinating combination of stunning scenery, architecture, and history, from its carefully constructed brick walls to its expansive views of the verdant surroundings. You’ll develop a deeper understanding of India’s rich cultural legacy as you discover this ancient marvel and make lifelong memories. Plan your trip with TripXL for a memorable journey.

Cover Photo: AshLin / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit Ita Fort is from October to March.
It typically takes about 2-3 hours to explore Ita Fort.
The entry fee is nominal, for adults is Rs.20 and for children is Rs.10.
The nearby attractions include Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary, Ganga Lake, and Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum.
Basic refreshments may be available in Itanagar. It’s advisable to carry your own water and snacks, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time exploring.

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