Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Being a historically enriching destination, there are numerous historical spots to visit in and around Chandigarh. If you are intrigued by forts and their towering existence and want to indulge in the tales of the past, there are several Chandigarh forts that you need to visit. Walking through the long-forgotten pathways and admiring the expansive walls and the defensive structures takes you back in time. You also get a glimpse into the architectural marvels that existed in the past. To have a well-rounded trip across Chandigarh, adding some of these forts allows you to strike a balance between modernity and history.
8 Best Chandigarh Forts To Explore
Here are the top Chandigarh forts, offering a glimpse into the region’s past and providing a striking contrast to the city’s contemporary landscape:
1. Burail Fort
Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Located in Sector 45 in Chandigarh, Burail Fort is one of the most rundown yet historical forts in Chandigarh. The fort was constructed back during the reign of the Mughal dynasty. Following its construction, the fort remained under the control of the Mughal Faujdar up till 1712 CE. So, it is safe to assume that the fort is almost 900 years old. Inside the fort, one of the most significant elements to visit and explore is the Shahidi Qila Sahib Gurudwara. This was built to commemorate the Sikh warriors who lost their lives. The robust structure of the fort is a treat to the eyes. Also, it is in the middle of the city, surrounded by people’s homes.
Location: SCF – 34, Main Bazar, Burail, Sector 45A, Burail, Burail Village, Sector 45, Chandigarh, 160047
Timings: 24*7
2. Manimajra Old Fort
Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons
Another one of the top forts in Chandigarh is the Manimajra Old Fort. It is located on the outskirts of Chandigarh. It holds a very intrinsic charm to its existence despite it being centuries since the construction of the fort. The “real entrance” of the fort, which was the iron ladder, is a sight to behold. Also, the fort’s popularity grew exponentially when it was featured in the Oscar-winning movie “Zero Dark Thirty.” The fort was built by Gharib Dass Dhillon of the Dhillon clan wherein it would serve as the capital of the created state of 84 villages.
Location: PR7P+QXH, Mohalla Araiyan Wala, Sector 13, Chandigarh, Panchkula, Chandigarh 160101
Timings: 24*7
3. Fort Ramgarh
Photo: Vineethasara / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Although it has been transformed into a heritage property now, Ramgarh Fort is one of the most popular forts in Chandigarh. The fort’s history is that it served as a protective place and residence of the royal family of the Chandel dynasty. Part of the fort was later converted into a heritage hotel in 2003. Beyond being constructed by the Chandel Rajputs, it is said that the fort is 360 years old. Also, one of the main highlights of this fort is the 37-foot tall wooden door, which serves as an entrance to the fort. As per the Limca Book of World Records, it is regarded as the tallest wooden door in India. While there, you can also explore the amazing well-maintained gardens and courtyard around.
Location: NH 7, Sector 28, Panchkula Extension, Panchkula, Haryana 134111
Timings: 10 AM to 10 PM
4. Morni Fort
Photo: Pankajkukreti03 / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the Morni Village, Morni Fort has now been transformed into a nature museum and educational centre for tourists. The fort itself is 200+ years old and it was later sanctioned to be converted into a museum and was finally opened to the public in November 2017. Coming to the fort’s history, the main attraction of the Morni Fort is the four towers. The fort’s interiors were rehabilitated by the King of Sirmur in 1814. One of the most unique architectural elements of the fort is its well-ventilated domes, which keep the fort’s insides cool, even during the summer months. Currently, the main attraction of the fort is the museum which has wildlife, murals, 3D artwork and more.
Location: 40 km from Chandigarh
Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
5. Fort Nalagarh
Photo: Göksel KEŞEN / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Another famous fort in Chandigarh, which has now been transformed into a heritage property is Fort Nalagarh. The origins of this fort date back to 1421 when it was constructed by Raja Bikram Chand. So, not only do you get to immerse yourself in the fort’s history, but you get to rent out one of the rooms and experience the royal treatment inside. The fort itself is surrounded by 20 acres of forest, which adds to the mystery and the beauty of the place too. From the top of the fort, you also get to witness uninterrupted panoramic views of the surrounding Shivalik Hills, adding to the overall experience further.
Location: Raj Mahal, Nalagarh
Timings: 10 AM to 10 PM
6. Bharatgarh Fort
Photo: MANISHA BASAK1988 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Located roughly 63 km from Chandigarh, Bharatgarh Fort is another must-visit destination in Punjab. The fort has been transformed into a heritage homestay like a lot of the other ones in the city. It is one of the few residential forts in India and its origins date back to 1783. The entirety of the fort isn’t commercially available to the public. However, a part of it has been transformed into a homestay, enabling you to feel like royalty. The publicly available spot of the fort covers around 7 acres, featuring a large garden, lawn area and the courtyard. The fort itself is on a small hillock, offering amazing views of the surroundings.
Location: 63 km from Chandigarh
Timings: 10 AM to 10 PM
7. Doraha Serai
Photo: sandip patel / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Often known as Mughal Serai, Doraha Serai is located in Doraha, Punjab, roughly 2-3 hours drive from Chandigarh. More commercially, the fort is also known as “RDB Fort” after its appearance in the Bollywood movie, Rang de Basanti. The fort’s construction was commissioned by Mughal king Jahangir to support Mughal caravans. The majority of the fort now remains in ruins and has become a lot rundown due to lack of maintenance. The fort is spread across an area of 168 sq.m and has imposing gateways, which is characteristic of the historical forts from back in the day.
Location: 81 km from Chandigarh
Timings: 24*7
8. Ramshehar Fort
Photo: Unpetitprole / Wikimedia Commons
Although not in the city of Chandigarh, Ramshehar Fort is around 70 km from the main city, making it an easily accessible fort. The fort’s origins date back to 1540 when it was built by Raja Ram Chander. Even though the fort is a few centuries old, proper maintenance has now transformed the fort into a resort, available for the public to live in and feel like royalty. The fort primarily features Mughal architecture with a hint of British influence in it. Also, the fort’s strategic location on top of a hillock adds to the charm of the place even further since you get to witness stunning views of the Shivalik Range and Sirsa River.
Location: 70 km from Chandigarh
Timings: 10 AM to 10 PM
Chandigarh forts offer a look into the rich and varied historical past of Punjab. While most of these forts have now been transformed into resorts and homestays, they enable you to experience the feeling of royal living, even if it’s for a day. So, as you are planning your next trip to Chandigarh with TripXL, set aside a few days to explore every one of these forts in and around Chandigarh.
Cover Photo: Yogesh YK / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
