Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Anandpur Sahib is a popular Sikh pilgrimage site that has significant associations with Sikh history. While there are several forts in Anandpur Sahib, depicting Sikh valour and history, Anandapur Fort, also known as Qila Anandgarh Sahib, is a fort worth adding to your travel plans. The magical fortress has played a significant role in the Sikh heritage, particularly during the times of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. It was established as one of the five important forts built by Guru Gobind Singh Ji to protect Dharma from the Tamurid Gurkhani Invaders and allied hill Rajas.
Quick Details
Address: Nai Abadi, Anandpur Sahib, Punjab 140118
Timings: 24*7
Ticket price: Free
Duration of Visit: 2 – 3 hours
Best Time To Visit: November to March
About Anandpur Fort Punjab
Photo: Gurlal Maan / Wikimedia Commons
Anandpur Fort, one of the five Qilas built by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, was constructed to strengthen the Sikh military power and protect the city of Anandpur Sahib from invaders. This fort is located in the heart of Anandpur Sahib and was a critical defence point during numerous battles. Although exact dates aren’t known, it is believed that the fort was constructed in 1689 by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The resilient structure of the fort, helped Guru Gobind Singh Ji and his forces bravely fight against the Tamurid Gukhani forces, further marking it as a site of Sikh resistance and courage.
How To Reach Qila Anandgarh Sahib
Photo: Gopal1035 / Wikipedia / Image For Representation Only
If you are planning to visit the Anandpur Fort during your trip to Punjab, there are numerous different transportation mediums to opt for.
By Air: For the tourists considering taking a flight, you’d need to reach Chandigarh International Airport, which is the nearest airport to the fort. From the airport, autos and taxis are available to take you to Anandpur Sahib.
By Rail: Anandpur Sahib Railway Station is your nearest railhead from the fort. You’d need to take a train from the nearby cities, get down at the railway station and from there, you can easily take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the site.
By Road: Depending on where you are travelling from, there are state-run public buses and taxis available from Chandigarh, Delhi, etc., which will take you to the fort.
Places To Visit Around Anandpur Fort
After you finish your tour of the Anandpur Fort, there are nearby sightseeing attractions, which are a must-visit from the place.
1. Virasat-e-Khalsa Museum
Photo: Sanyambahga / Wikimedia commons
If there’s one place to learn about the Sikh culture and heritage, it is inside the Virasat-e-Khalsa Museum. Visiting the museum offers a glimpse into the history of Sikhism and the cultural heritage that exists in Punjab. The modern architecture and design of this museum are its highlights and inside you are welcomed with modern exhibits, multimedia presentations, and artefacts, offering a rundown of all the details of Sikh history.
Distance From The Fort: 850 Metres
Timings: 07:30 AM – 1:30 PM
2. Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib
Photo: Deziner89 / Wikimedia Commons
Also known as Kesgarh Sahib, Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib is one of the five takhts of the Sikhs located in Anandpur Sahib. It is of prime importance where two of the last Sikh Gurus, Guru Tegh Bahadur and Guru Gobind Singh, spent a good part of their time. This is also the place where Khalsa Panth was founded in 1699. Since the Takht was quite old and rundown, a new structure was constructed in its place in the 1930s.
Distance From The Fort: 1.5 Km
Timings: 24*7
3. Bhai Jaita Ji Memorial
Photo: PlaneMad./ Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
This memorial is dedicated to Bhai Jaita Ji, who played a crucial role in Sikh history by bringing Guru Tegh Bahadur’s head from Delhi to Anandpur Sahib after his martyrdom. The memorial honours his bravery and sacrifice. Getting a glimpse into the roles of the unsung heroes in Sikh history and heritage is truly one of the main highlights of visiting Anandpur Sahib in the first place.
Distance From The Fort: 1.6 Km
Timings: 24*7
Where To Stay
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
If you are planning your visit to the Anandpur Fort, you can book your stay in one of the many hotels available in Anandpur Sahib. Some of the most popular hotels and resorts to book your stay in are Hotel Temple View Inn, Hotel Holy City Paradise Inn, Hotel the Crown, Sarai Bharatgarh Hotel and Hotel White City.
Where To Eat
Photo: Surabhi Siddaiah / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Anandpur Sahib is a renowned tourist destination that has numerous restaurants and local eateries for you to try. You can try local Punjabi cuisines or indulge in some international dishes in the city. Some of the well-rated restaurants in the city include Anandpur Sahib Brewbakes Café, Khalsa Punjabi Dhaba, Cafe 21 Degree, Pehlwan Dhaba and Virasat-E- Khalsa Cafeteria.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: cottonbro studio / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
If you are planning your visit to the Anandpur Fort, consider visiting during the colder months, between November and February. With average temperatures from 10°C to 25°C and clear skies, exploring the fort and the nearby city becomes a walk in the park. Since Punjab can get pretty hot and humid during the summer months, planning your visit during the winter is ideal.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Exploring Anandpur Fort comes with numerous factors that you must keep in mind
- Since there is a lot of walking involved around the fort, it is better to wear comfortable shoes.
- Anandpur Sahib is a pilgrimage site for the Sikhs, so ensure that you are dressed modestly.
- If you are planning to spend the day exploring the fort, carry water and snacks with you.
- Be respectful of the local customs and traditions when visiting the fort.
- Have a local guide with you to get a glimpse into the history of the fort.
Anandpur Fort is one of the most significant sites to visit and explore in Anandpur Sahib. The next time you are in the pilgrimage city, ensure that you take your time to explore each one of the five tickets, learn about their historical significance and immerse yourself in the spiritual significance of the place. You can plan your entire trip to the fort and the holy city with TripXL for the ultimate travel experience and the best deals.
Cover Photo: Gurlal Maan / Wikimedia Common
