Situated in the Etah district in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, Awagarh is a historic town and a Nagar Panchayat. It’s a town full of contrasts and colours. Here is a 108-acre, exquisite fort built by the Jadon rulers of the Kshatriya clan, who, after migrating from Karauli, constructed this magnificent fortress on a small mound in the 12th century. Raja Balwant Singh Ji of Awagarh built a college in Agra that bears his name. The college received hundreds of acres of his land as a donation. He additionally helped Rabindra Nath Tagore in establishing Shantiniketan.
Awagarh Fort Location
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This Awagarh Fort is constructed in the town of Awagarh, which lies in the Etah district of Uttar Pradesh, India. The location is really scenic and lies 80 kilometres from Agra and 160 kilometres from the state capital Lucknow. This can be why this fort is relatively easy to access for history enthusiasts and travellers seeking to experience the region’s rich heritage. The fort presents a strong testimony to the royal heritage of the Awagarh rulers, affording visitors a peep into the glory of India’s princely past.
How To Reach Awagarh Fort
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There are many transportation ways to reach Awagarh Fort, Uttar Pradesh.
By Air: The closest airport to the location is Kheria Airport, which is located in Agra and is around 100 kilometres away. From there visitors can rent a cab or take a bus to the fort.
By Train: The nearest railway station to the fort is Etah Railway Station. From there, visitors can book a cab or take a bus to the fort.
By Road: The nearest bus station to the fort is Etah Bus Station which is about 25 km away. From the bus stand you can easily find local transportation such as taxis and auto rickshaws to the fort.
Places To Visit Around Awagarh Fort
There are several popular attractions around the fort that one must explore on a trip.
1. Patna Bird Sanctuary
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This is Uttar Pradesh’s smallest bird sanctuary, comprising only 1 square kilometre, yet it is undoubtedly one of the best, with over 180 kinds of birds calling it home. Patna Bird Sanctuary is accessible by road and train. The lake, which is fed by rainwater, dries up in the summer. The following bird species have been reported from this location: Comb Duck, Cotton Teal, Lesser Whistling Duck, and Spot-billed Duck. The sanctuary welcomes about 60,000 birds during the peak of the winter season, which is December and January. The Northern Pintail is the most common migratory bird here, outnumbering any other species.
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Distance: 30 km
2. Bateshwar Temple
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Bateshwar Temple is in Uttar Pradesh, India. Nestled on the banks of the Yamuna River, this ancient temple complex is a treasure trove of architectural marvels and spiritual significance. Bateshwar Temples, with its rich history, spiritual atmosphere, and magnificent craftsmanship, attract pilgrims, history buffs, and architecture lovers from all over the world. The Bateshwar Temples, also known as the Bateshwar Group of Temples, are a collection of over a hundred sandstone temples dating back to the eighth to tenth century. These temples, which are spread across a large area, feature a harmonious blend of Nagara and Pratihara architectural styles, reflecting the cultural and creative history of that period.
Timings: 4 AM – 10 AM
Distance: 56.8 km
3. Shri Mankameshwar Mandir
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Shri Mankameshwar Mandir, located in the city of Taj, Agra, is one of the region’s most venerated religious sites. The shrine is located near the Agra Fort Railway Station in Rawatpara. The temple’s god is Lord Shiva, and followers come from all across the country to worship him. This temple is thought to be one of the oldest in the city.
The temple is recognised for its stunning architecture and elaborate sculptures depicting episodes from Hindu mythology. The temple is also a prominent pilgrimage destination for Lord Shiva followers. If you’re seeking a location to seek blessings and spiritual comfort, go to the Shri Mankameshwar Mandir.
Timings: 4 AM – 10 AM
Distance: 25 km
4. Khatu Shyam Ji Mandir
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One of Rajasthan’s most well-known pilgrimage sites is Khatu Shyam Ji Mandir, which is situated in the Sikar district. In Hindu mythology, Khatu Shyam Ji is the manifestation of Barbarika, the son of Ghatotkacha. It is stated that devotees who utter his name from the bottom of their hearts are blessed and have their problems solved if they do so with sincere piety.
This is reported to be the location from which Khatu Shyam Ji’s head was recovered. A prevalent belief among believers is that a dip in this pond will cure a person’s diseases and restore their health.
Timings: 4:30 AM – 12:30 AM, 4:30 PM – 10 PM
Distance: 52.8 km
5. Shree Vaishno Devi Dham
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Shree Vaishno Devi Dham in Usaini, Uttar Pradesh, is a spiritually revered site, visited by thousands of devotees who come here to seek the goddess Vaishno Devi’s blessings. The temple is one of the most beautiful architecture; it stands as evidence of the deep faith and devotion of followers. Located amidst very soothing surroundings, the dham provides a peaceful and calming retreat for those who wish to connect with the divine. Visitors are often drawn by the serenity and spiritual atmosphere which pervades the temple.
Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM
Distance: 50 km
Where To Stay
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The fort is constructed in the town of Awagarh, which lies in the Etah district of Uttar Pradesh, India. The location is scenic: 80 kilometres from Agra and 160 kilometres from the state capital Lucknow. This can be why this fort is relatively easy to access for history enthusiasts and travellers seeking to experience the region’s rich heritage. The fort presents a strong testimony to the royal heritage of the Awagarh rulers, affording visitors a peep into the glory of India’s princely past.
Where To Eat
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When in Awagarh, one has few choices at hand but lots of local flavours. The in-house place to dine is at the Awagarh Fort, serving traditional items that reflect the rich heritage of the land. To the north lies Aligarh, which boasts all kinds of eateries, be it a popular restaurant like Al-Baik offering its special Mughlai cuisine or small local dhabas serving delectable street food and comforting thalis. You will relish freshly prepared traditional dishes using local ingredients. The flavours of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh shall come straight to your plate. As Awagarh is a small town, restaurants or cafes outside the fort are scarce.
Best Time To Visit
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The weather is quite cool and dry during these months, making it perfect for checking out the fort. The skies are usually clear in October and November, with fair temperatures that make them suitable enough for exterior activities, while being a bit chilly during December and January, when it gets a bit cold at night, so take warm clothing. Ideally, the best time to visit Awagarh Fort is from October to March. If you wish to enjoy a calmer time, then you must come to this place during the weekdays instead of the weekends. The winter time in general is ideal for visiting if you are an admirer of the rich historical and architectural heritage that is present in the fort.
Other Factors To Consider
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In preparation for visiting the fort, so, consider accessibility, local customs, and other attractions around the area, such as:
- The fort is only accessible by road. So, you need to make the necessary transport arrangements.
- Be ready with your camera to click some stunning Awagarh Fort pictures to take back home.
- It is always beneficial to familiarise oneself with local customs and manners.
- Look for local events or festivals that may take place around the dates you plan to be around.
- Plan your visit on weekdays to save you from crowds and ensure a more serene trek around the fort.
The history, heritage, and culture of Awagarh Fort blend so perfectly with the place, that any curious mind about India’s wonderful past must pay a visit. Antiquated beauties of great architecture and royal ambience, amidst peaceful surroundings, stand in testimony as a unique travel experience for those who search for historic offbeat destinations. Take a look at planning your visits with TripXL for smooth travels, itineraries, and deals.
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