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Himachal Pradesh is famous for its scenic beauty. It is likewise culturally and historically as lively as any other vicinity in India. Forts in Himachal Pradesh have the beauty to portray the state in and around that period. All these forts have historical significance – some have been crucial military institutions, and some have been dazzling palaces. These are exceptional forts in Himachal Pradesh, where you may discover the region and its history, enjoy picturesque scenery, and relish the local culture. Visiting these stops makes for an exceptional vacation for a historian or the adventurous.
10 Best Forts In Himachal Pradesh
Find out the ten best forts in Himachal Pradesh, where it is possible to get different views of the state’s history and the striking architecture of the buildings and structures.
1. Kangra Fort
Photo: Ranaa0096 / Wikimedia Commons
Kangra Fort, located on a mountaintop, is one of India’s oldest and biggest forts in Himachal Pradesh. The Katoch dynasty first erected it in the fourth century BC. The fort provides panoramic views of the Kangra Valley and is known for its remarkable architecture, including magnificent walls, gates, and temples. The old Shree Krishna Temple and the fort’s picturesque surroundings are two must-see attractions. Kangra Fort’s historical significance and breathtaking scenery make it a must-see for history buffs and environment lovers.
Major Attraction: The ancient Shree Krishna Temple
Best Time To Visit: March to June, September to November
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 Hours
Nearest Airport: Gaggal Airport (Dharamshala) – 15 km
Nearest Railway Station: Kangra Railway Station – 20 km
2. Sujanpur Tira Fort
Photo: Ashishverma.pu / Wikimedia Commons
Sujanpur Tira Fort, in Himachal Pradesh’s Hamirpur district, is a historic fort erected in 1758 by Raja Abhay Chand of the Katoch family. Perched atop a hill, the fort provides panoramic views of the Beas River and the surrounding terrain. The fort is famous for its spectacular architecture, exquisite temples, frescoed walls, and complex decorations. Sujanpur Tira Fort functioned as a royal home and a critical military fortress. The surrounding Sujanpur Tira town, with its beautiful nature and cultural past, contributes to the fort’s appeal, making it an important historical monument in Himachal Pradesh.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 Days
Nearest Airport: Gaggal Airport (Kangra), approximately 75 km away
Nearest Railway Station: Una Railway Station, approximately 120 km away
3. Bilaspur Fort
Photo: Dhruvaeng / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Bilaspur Fort, located in Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh, is a historic castle with a long history. The Rajputs built this famous fort in Himachal Pradesh in the seventh century. It played an important role in the region’s defence and governance. Its strategic location provides panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the Beas River. Despite being largely in ruins, Bilaspur Fort’s magnificence and historical significance make it a must-see for anyone interested in learning about Himachal Pradesh’s rich history.
Best Time To Visit: March to June and September to November
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 Hours
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport (Kullu) – 85 km
Nearest Railway Station: Bilaspur Railway Station – 5 km
4. Una Fort
Photo: Kartik Gupta / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Una Fort, located in Una, Himachal Pradesh, is a historic fortress from the 18th century. The fort, built by the local kings, was ideally located to supervise the region and defend against invaders. Its architecture is characterised by strong walls and bastions, typical of military design during that period. The fort gives panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the area’s historical context.
Best Time To Visit: March to June, September to November
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 Hours
Nearest Airport: Chandigarh Airport – 90 km
Nearest Railway Station: Una Railway Station – 10 km
5. Rohru Fort
Photo: Kartik Gupta / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Rohru Fort, located in the town of Rohru, Himachal Pradesh, is a mediaeval fortress having strong roots in the region’s history. The fort, built by local authorities in the seventeenth century, was strategically intended to provide defence and oversight over the surrounding region. Its construction reflects the era’s military might, with strong walls and defensive fortifications. The fort offers stunning views of the Sutlej River and the beautiful green environment. Though substantially destroyed, Rohru Fort remains an important historical landmark, providing insight into its period’s architectural and strategic genius.
Best Time To Visit: March to June, September to November
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 Hours
Nearest Airport: Jubbarhatti Airport (Shimla) – 150 km
Nearest Railway Station: Shimla Railway Station – 130 km
6. Nadaun Fort
Photo: fendt1 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Nadaun Fort, located in Nadaun town, Himachal Pradesh, is a historic fortification from the sixteenth century. Built by the local rulers, this fort was intended to serve as a crucial military outpost and administrative centre. Its design boasts strong defensive walls and bastions that provide panoramic views of the surrounding area. The fort’s ruins contain antique battlements and architectural aspects demonstrating its historical significance. Nadaun Fort is a significant cultural and historical site, representing the region’s rich legacy and affording a fascinating glimpse into the past for both visitors and scholars.
Best Time To Visit: March to June, September to November
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 Hours
Nearest Airport: Gaggal Airport (Dharamshala) – 120 km
Nearest Railway Station: Una Railway Station – 45 km
7. Jubbal Fort
Photo: MemoryCatcher / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Jubbal Fort, located in Jubbal, Himachal Pradesh, is a historic fort erected in the sixteenth century by local kings. The fort’s solid walls and exquisite wooden carvings reflect traditional Himachali architecture. Jubbal Fort was originally built as a defensive bastion but subsequently became a royal home, demonstrating its strategic and administrative importance. The fortress provides breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Today, it serves as a well-preserved example of the region’s architectural legacy, drawing visitors with its historical relevance and scenic beauty.
Best Time To Visit: March to June, September to November
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 Hours
Nearest Airport: Jubbarhatti Airport (Shimla) – 95 km
Nearest Railway Station: Shimla Railway Station – 75 km
8. Kharapathar Fort
Photo: Palauenc05 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Kharapathar Fort, located in the picturesque village of Kharapathar, Himachal Pradesh, is a historic landmark dating back to the seventeenth century. The fort, built by the local Rajput kings, was strategically located to monitor the surrounding region and act as a defensive station. The fort’s construction includes robust walls and bastions typical of the period. It provides magnificent views of the beautiful surroundings and grassy hills surrounding it. Despite being mostly in ruins, Kharapathar Fort is a fascinating sight for history buffs and tourists.
Best Time To Visit: March to June, September to November
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 Hours
Nearest Airport: Jubbarhatti Airport (Shimla) – 60 km
Nearest Railway Station: Shimla Railway Station – 50 km
9. Sundernagar Fort
Photo: aitoff / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Sundernagar Fort, located in Sundernagar, Himachal Pradesh, is a historic fort dating back to the nineteenth century. The local rulers built this fort, which played an important role in the region’s defence and governance. Its building has strong walls and strategic battlements to guard against attacks. This popular fort in Himachal Pradesh offers amazing views of the surrounding landscapes, including the lovely Sundernagar lake. Sundernagar Fort, albeit largely in ruins, is a prominent site that reflects Himachal Pradesh’s historical and architectural legacy.
Best Time To Visit: March to June and September to November
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 Hours
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport (Kullu) – 60 km
Nearest Railway Station: Bilaspur Railway Station – 30 km
10. Pangna Fort
Photo: Unpetitprole / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Pangna Fort, located in the hamlet of Pangna, is a fortress with a long history. Built by local authorities in the sixteenth century, this tourist attraction in Himachal Pradesh was strategically positioned to monitor the surrounding area and act as a defence station. Its building has strong walls and bastions that reflect the military design of the time. The fort offers breathtaking views of the green hills and tranquil Pangna environs.
Best Time To Visit: March to June, September to November
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 Hours
Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport (Kullu) – 85 km
Nearest Railway Station: Bilaspur Railway Station – 70 km
Exploring forts in Himachal Pradesh is a fascinating trip through history and architecture, with each fort telling its tale about the region’s past. From the stately Kangra Fort to the gorgeous Pangna Fort, these locations combine traditional heritage and breathtaking scenery. Plan your trip with TripXL, your go-to for smooth travel experiences and local knowledge, to ensure a great visit. Start your journey now!
Cover Photo: Vssun / Wikimedia Commons
