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Beyond the palaces and the museums, forts are one of those establishments that depict the story of the past in the most realistic way. Among the many forts that we have in Gujarat, there are a few forts in Ahmedabad that deserve to be explored. Each Ahmedabad fort provides a glimpse into the past, telling stories that are riddled with royalty, invasions, battles and colonial rule. These forts not only offer a look into the history but also stand as the proud symbols of the city’s rich heritage. As you craft the perfect itinerary exploring around Gujarat, you have to stop and explore all the top Ahmedabad Forts without fail.
8 Top Ahmedabad Forts To Explore
Each of the historical forts in Ahmedabad offers a glimpse into the centuries of rule and change, especially with the impacts of the varying dynasties through the years.
1. Bhadra Fort
Photo: Tejaherwal / Wikimedia Commons
Among the list of the Ahmedabad forts, Bhadra Fort will undoubtedly take the top spot. The fort is a standing proof of the Mughal legacy that once prevailed in Gujarat. The fort was built in 1411 by Sultan Ahmad Shah I, the founder of Ahmedabad. It is spread across an area of 43 acres and is surrounded by lush gardens, which add to the charm of the place. Inside the fort, you are bound to have your mind blown by the mosques, palaces and a massive courtyard as well. One of the main attractions inside the fort is the Bhadra Kali Temple, which is what the fort is named after.
Location: Bhadra Fort, Bhadra Rd, Old City, Bhadra, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380001
Timings: 05 AM – 10:15 PM
Entry Fees: Free
2. Dabhoi Fort
Photo: Akshita Raina / Wikimedia Commons
Up next on the list of best forts in Ahmedabad is Dabhoi Fort, which is located around 143 km away from the main city. The fort’s origins date back to the 13th century and was constructed by the Solanki dynasty that reigned Gujarat. However, following the invasion by Aurangzeb, the fort was further enhanced and expanded. One of the main attractions of this fort is the underground passage that leads to the nearby Narmada River. It is currently a protected archaeological site under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The fort’s architecture features large walls, gateways and bastions, providing a glimpse into the past engineering skills.
Location: Fort Dabhoi, Jainawaga, Dabhoi, Gujarat 391110 (143 km from Ahmedabad)
Timings: 08 AM – 08 PM
Entry Fees: ₹20 for Indians and ₹50 for Foreigners
3. Pavagadh Fort
Photo: Shalini133 / Wikimedia Commons
Located inside the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, Pavagadh Fort is one of the most significant forts in Gujarat. The fort is roughly 146 km from Ahmedabad, which takes around 3 hours to reach. The fort was initially built by the rulers of the Solanki dynasty, following which the Chauhans of the Khichi clan further strengthened the fort’s construction and existence. Not only that, the bastion towers in the fort also add to the charm of the fort. Inside the fort, there are numerous elements of attractions including eight distinct gates and temples. There is a Lakulisa temple inside the fort, which is of prime importance too.
Location: Champaner, Gujarat 389360
Timings: 08:30 AM – 05 PM
Entry Fees: ₹30 for Indians and ₹500 for Foreigners
4. Uparkot Fort
Photo: Gopikapadia / Wikimedia Commons
Uparkot Fort is one of the oldest forts in Gujarat, located 316 km from Ahmedabad, in Junagadh. The fort’s origin dates back to the 4th century and it is believed that the fort’s construction was done by Mauryan emperor Chandragupta Maurya. Following its construction, the fort was renovated by numerous rulers in the area, including those of the Chudasama dynasty, the Mughals, and the British. Inside the fort, there are numerous important elements including high-rise walls, water tanks and gateways. Also, there are temples and mosques inside the palace, including the Mahakali Temple, the Jama Masjid, and the Buddhist caves.
Location: Mullawada, Junagadh, Gujarat 362001 (316 km from Ahmedabad)
Timings: 08 AM – 06 PM
Entry Fees: ₹5 for Indians and ₹100 for Foreigners
5. Kanthkot Fort
Photo: Kutchimadu / Wikimedia Commons
Dating back to the 8th century, Kanthkot Fort is another one of the popular forts in Ahmedabad that you can consider visiting. The fort is spread across a circumference of 5 km on a remote hill in Kutch district in Gujarat. Historians depict that the fort was constructed by the local Kathi tribes, who were devotees of the Sun God. So, as you step inside the temple, you will be mesmerised by the numerous temples including the Kanthadnath Temple, which is dedicated to a sage after whom the fort is reportedly named. There are two deep wells inside the fort, which reportedly have a historical significance as well.
Location: Kanthkot, Gujarat 370135 (216 km from Ahmedabad)
Timings: 24 hours
Entry Fees: Free
6. Taranga Fort
Photo: Capankajsmilyo / Wikimedia Commons
Among the top forts in Ahmedabad, consider planning your visit to Taranga Fort. It is located near the village of Taranga, which is in the Mehsana district. You have to embark on a steep climb up the hill to reach the fort, making it a popular site of exploration among adventure enthusiasts. The origins of the fort date back to the 6th century and the fort has been under the control of several rulers including Solankis, the Vaghelas, and the Mughals. Also, the fort is home to the Taranga Jain Temple, which is a renowned pilgrimage site among the Jains.
Location: Taranga Hill, Kheralu, Gujarat 384325 (141 km from Ahmedabad)
Timings: 24 hours
Entry Fees: Free
7. Bhujia Fort
Photo: Prabhat / Wikimedia Commons
Located on top of the Bhujia Hill, Bhujia Fort is another renowned fort that you can consider visiting from Ahmedabad. Unlike the other forts in Gujarat, this fort has a significant religious tale attached to it. It is said that the fort is named after Bhujanga Naga, a serpent deity. The entire fort is built in his honour. The fort’s construction dates back to the 8th century, wherein it was commissioned by Rao Godji I from the Jadeja dynasty. The fort has experienced six different battles but has withstood the wrath of each.
Location: Bhujia Fort Rd, Bhujio Dungar, Bhuj, Gujarat 370020
Timings: 08 AM – 07 PM
Entry Fees: Free
8. Lakhota Fort
Photo: Rangilo Gujarati / Wikimedia Commons
Currently named the Lakhota Palace and Lake, Lakhota Fort is yet another famous fort in Ahmedabad. The fort is built in the middle of the Lakhota Lake, adding to its structural significance. Built out of white stones, the entire fort looks stunning. While you are visiting the Lakhota Fort now, you can also explore the surrounding lake and even the museum that is built on the lake. You also get a glimpse into the details of the different artefacts, including the arms, weapons, jewellery, textiles and more. One of the most bizarre things in the museum is the whale skeleton.
Location: Government Colony, Jamnagar, Gujarat 361005
Timings: 09 AM – 08 PM (Wednesday closed)
Entry Fees: ₹25 for Indian and ₹100 for foreigners
Finding the best Ahmedabad fort is a tough choice, given that there are so many to explore. Most of the forts are located at a significant distance from Ahmedabad since the main objective of the forts was to protect the vulnerable areas in the state. So, the next time you are planning your visit to Ahmedabad, ensure that you sort out all the bookings with TripXL and then plan a trip to explore all the top forts around.
Cover Photo: Tejaherwal / Wikimedia Commons
