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Punjab’s history is enriched with numerous significant royal histories and heritages and Bharatgarh Fort’s existence is one of the most renowned ones. Featuring a blend of history, architecture and serene landscapes, Bharatgarh Fort offers a look into Punjab’s regal past. Reportedly, being one of the only live-in forts in India, Bharatgarh Fort has now been transformed into a heritage property, enabling people to get a taste of the royal living and the amazing experiences surrounding it. If you are curious to learn details about the Bharatgarh Fort and all the details surrounding its origin, heritage homestay and experiences, you need to plan your trip with great detail.
Quick Details
Address: The Fort, V.P.O Bharatgarh, District Ropar, Punjab 140114
Timings: 10 AM – 10 PM
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Chandigarh International Airport
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Famous For: Heritage stay, historical tours, scenic views
About Bharatgarh Fort, Punjab
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Ms Sarah Welch / Image For Representation Only
Bharatgarh Fort was constructed in 1783 by Nawab Kapur Singh, the founder of the Misl. He was one of the most prominent and strategic rulers in the area and constructed the fort with the intention of defence against the invaders. After the fall of Sirhind, Ropar, currently known as Rupanagar district, came under the control of the Singhpuria Misl. The Bharatgarh Fort stood as a stronghold for the Singhpuria Misl dynasty and due to its strategic location, it was a point of interest for numerous invaders. The present-day Bharatgarh Fort stands on 100 acres of forest while the fort’s area is roughly 7 acres. The fort’s architecture reflects a blend of Mughal and Rajput influences, with high bastions, deep trenches, secret tunnels, and elegant balconies.
How To Reach Bharatgarh Fort
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Bharatgarh Fort, being a heritage property, is quite easily accessible from any part of the city. The transportation depends on the kind of mode you are choosing.
By Air
If you are flying to Punjab to visit the fort, you’d need to reach Chandigarh International Airport, which is the nearest one. From the airport, it is ideal to hire a taxi to the fort.
By Rail
Ropar has its railway station, which is accessible from the nearby cities in Punjab. You need to first reach Ropar Railway Station and from there you will find public buses, autos and even taxis available to take you to the fort. If you have booked your stay at the fort, they also do private transfers.
By Road
For those travelling from Chandigarh, you can take the Chandigarh-Ropar Road, which leads directly to the fort. The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours.
Things To Do At Bharatgarh Fort
To make the most out of your time at the Bharatgarh Fort, having a well-planned itinerary is needed. This ensures that you don’t miss out on any of the unique experiences.
1. Explore The Fort’s Architecture
Photo: Khalid Mahmood / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
One of the most fascinating aspects of Bharatgarh Fort is its well-preserved architecture, which reflects the grandeur of 18th-century Punjabi fortifications. As you walk through and explore the fort, the intricate craftsmanship, especially the finely carved wooden doors, traditional jharokhas, and thick stone walls is bound to blow your mind. Don’t miss the opportunity to walk through the fort’s courtyards and marvel at its historic rooms that transport you back in time. Occasionally, guided tours are offered by the fort administrators, so look those up too.
2. Heritage Walks And Guided Tours
Photo: Aman Ullah Khan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
While on the topic of guided tours, a heritage walk through the accessible part of the Bharatgarh Fort is an absolute must. In most cases, the walks are usually led by the current owners of the fort. Even if that isn’t available, the staff at the fort will guide you through the expanse of the fort. These tours are a great way to immerse yourself in the historical stories and anecdotes associated with the fort. The walk takes you through various sections of the fort, including the watchtowers, old living quarters, and courtyards, with narrations that shed light on the fort’s role during the Sikh Misl period.
3. Nature Walks And Birdwatching
Photo: Siegfried Poepperl / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The location of the Bharatgarh Fort on the Shivalik Hills and being surrounded by dense forest means that it is the perfect spot for you to indulge in nature walks and birdwatching. There are migratory birds often spotted around the fort, especially during the winter months. The surrounding area is a haven for birdwatchers, with a variety of species, including parakeets, eagles, and kingfishers. Guided birdwatching tours are also available, where you can learn more about the local fauna and flora.
4. Village Tours
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Another unique experience that you can indulge in while visiting the Bharatgarh Fort is exploring the nearby villages. These tours allow you to interact with the local community, observe traditional farming practices, and understand the rural culture of Punjab. During these tours, you can witness how village life remains deeply connected to nature and tradition. You might even get the chance to partake in a local festival or event, depending on the time of the year that you are visiting.
Places To Visit Around Bharatgarh Fort
Beyond staying at the Bharatgarh Fort for a day or two and indulging in the numerous activities, the fort’s location is surrounded by numerous other sightseeing spots too.
1. Ropar Wetland
Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons
Also known as Harike Wetland, Ropar Wetland is a nearby tourist attraction from the fort. It is a renowned ecological hotspot and bird sanctuary that is spread across an area of 1365 sq.hectares. Birdwatchers can spot rare species such as the Northern Shoveler, Eurasian Wigeon, and Ruddy Shelduck. The wetland also supports aquatic life, with its waters teeming with fish and providing a habitat for various reptiles and amphibians.
Distance From Bharatgarh Fort: 27.8 kms
Timings: 24 hours
2. Anandpur Sahib
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Ms Sarah Welch
Anandpur Sahib is a holy pilgrimage site in Punjab that is a must-visit. It is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites for Sikhs and has a historical significance. The town was founded by the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur, in 1665 and often translates to the “City of Bliss”. It is on this site that Khalsa was created, which is why the city has numerous gurudwaras that you can visit, including the Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib and Hola Mohalla too.
Distance From Bharatgarh Fort: 20.7 kms
Timings: Open 24 hours
3. Virasat-E-Khalsa
Photo: Aashish3000 / Wikimedia Commons
Another crucial sightseeing spot that you must add to your travel plans is Virasat-e-Khalsa. It is a state-of-the-art museum that celebrates and chronicles the history, culture, and heritage of Sikhism. The museum was opened to the public in 2011 and the modern architecture of the museum was done by Israeli architect Moshe Safdie. The exhibits span several galleries, showcasing pivotal events like the life and teachings of Sikh Gurus, the establishment of the Khalsa, and religion’s significant role in Indian history.
Distance From Bharatgarh Fort: 20.5 kms
Timings: 7:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Where To Stay Near Bharatgarh Fort
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Bharatgarh Fort itself is a heritage hotel, so you can plan your stay there for a day or two, provided that budget isn’t a constraint for you. However, if that is the case, there are a few popular hotels in close vicinity that are budget-friendly, including The Kikar Lodge, Lemon Tree Hotel, Legend Sarovar Portico, Hotel Gianz and Treeoise Resort.
Where To Eat Near Bharatgarh Fort
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Beyond the in-house restaurant inside the Bharatgarh Fort, there are a few restaurants located near the fort as well where you can try authentic Punjabi and international cuisines. A few of the highly rated places to visit are Sarai Bharatgarh Restaurant, Alpine Dhaba, Ambri, Pheasants Nest Restaurant and The Kikar Water Front Restaurant.
Best Time To Visit Bharatgarh Fort
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Bharatgarh Fort is accessible throughout the year, meaning that you can visit anytime. However, to indulge in outdoor activities like village tours and forest walks, you need to ensure that the weather is comfortable and pleasant too. Hence, the winter months, between October and March, account for the peak season to visit and explore the fort with average temperatures from 15°C to 25°C.
Other Factors To Consider
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To make the most out of your trip to Bharatgarh Fort, keep the following pointers in mind:
- Since the fort is privately owned, ensure you make arrangements for your visit in advance.
- The weather can vary, especially in winter, so pack layers to stay comfortable.
- The fort is still a private residence, so be mindful of the owners’ privacy and local traditions.
- Carry enough water, especially during the summer months, as it can get quite warm.
- You can take Bharatgarh Fort pictures, so carry a good camera with you.
Visiting Bharatgarh Fort should be a must-experience when you are planning your vacation to Punjab. Even if you don’t stay in the property, the experience of exploring the surrounding areas and making the most out of the available amenities make the overall visit a success. To book your trip to Bharatgarh Fort, check out TripXL for custom itineraries and exclusive deals.
Cover Photo: Tanveer Nadeem / Shutterstock / Image For Representation Only
