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The existence of forts is a direct reflection of the rich cultural and historical significance of a place, and forts in Jammu depict the tales of the past. From intricate stone carvings to the existence of temples inside the forts, each fort in Jammu has a unique historical background associated with it. Featuring a blend of Mughal, Rajasthani, and European architecture, getting to explore the stories of the forts is enough to feed the history buff in you. If you are intrigued by the concept of Jammu forts and want to learn about them, plan your trip accordingly.
Top 10 Forts In Jammu
Here are the top ten forts featuring imposing structures and intricate architectures, the forts across Jammu tell stories of sacrifices, resilience, war and destruction.
1. Bahu Fort
Photo: Ashish3724 / Wikimedia Commons
When it comes to one of the most famous forts in Jammu, Bahu Fort deserves to be on the top. It is one of the oldest forts located on the banks of the Tawi River. Built by Raja Bahulochan, the fort’s history is 3000 years old. Following the initial construction, the fort was further improved upon by the Dogra rulers during their reign. Several individual elements make it unique, among them, the Bagh-e-Bahu or the terraced garden is the main attraction. There is also a temple inside the fort that’s dedicated to Goddess Kali named Bave Wali Mata Mandir.
Location: Bahu Fort, Gorkha Nagar, Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir 180006
Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM
Entry Fee: ₹10 for adults, ₹5 for children
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Jammu
2. Amar Mahal Palace
Photo: Shahvilayat / Wikimedia Commons
The construction of the Amar Mahal Palace dates back to the period of the Dogra dynasty in the 19th century. It is among the popular Jammu forts and is now a museum. The palace is located on the banks of River Tawi and offers stunning views of the river and the adjacent Shivalik range from the top. Near the Amar Mahal Palace lies the Hari Niwas Palace, which served as the residence of Maharaja Hari Singh and has now been transformed into a heritage hotel. The main attraction is its red sandstone structure, miniature paintings and European castle-style architecture.
Location: PVXC+3WM, Palace Road, Karan Nagar, Jammu Tawi, Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir 180001
Timings: 10 AM – 1 PM and 2 PM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: ₹10 for adults, ₹5 for children
3. Akhnoor Fort
Photo: vinodksharma001 / Wikimedia Commons
Perched on top of a cliff overlooking the Chenab River, Akhnoor Fort is one of the best Jammu Forts. The fort’s origin dates back to 1802 when it was built by Raja Alam Singh. There are reports that it was Raja Tegh Singh who started the construction in 1762 and his son Raja Alam Singh finished it later. It is a two-storeyed fort and has been declared a national monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Excavations have revealed archaeological remains of the Harappan civilisation at the site of the fort.
Location: Jammu and Kashmir 181201
Timings: 9 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
Suggested Read: Trekking In Kashmir
4. Ramnagar Fort
Photo: Malikbek / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the Udhampur district, Ramnagar Fort is one of the historical forts in Jammu. According to historical evidence, the fort was built by Rajput Raja Suchet Singh, who died in 1844. Following his death, his wife performed Sati near the fort. One of the most unique elements of this fort is its polygonal shape with bastions on all corners. Beyond the relics and motifs on the walls of the fort, there are intricate images of Ganesha, Durga and Hanuman on the walls of the fort as well.
Location: R857+2J5, Ramnagar, 182122
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
5. Bhimgarh Fort
Photo: Shubham Sharma / Wikimedia Commons
Bhimgarh Fort is one of the top forts in Jammu and is located in the Reasi district. The fort was initially constructed by Raja Bhimdev Rasyal, entirely out of clay. Later, to ensure better strength and resilience of the fort, it was reconstructed using stone by one of the heirs of the dynasty. As you enter the fort, the entrance is carved out of Baluka stones and has intricate carvings on it, which adds to the architectural significance. There are multiple different complexes, an armoury and treasury, a pond and a temple inside the fort.
Location: 3RGM+RJP, Reasi, Marhi, Jammu and Kashmir 182311
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: ₹100
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Jammu
6. Poonch Fort
Photo: Ashish3724 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
More commonly named “Qilla”, Poonch fort is one of the centrally located Jammu forts that’s surrounded by a bustling market. There is a dry ditch on one side of the fort and a high-rise masonry rampart wall on the other. The fort dates back to the 16th century when it was built by Raja Rustam Khan. It was later rebuilt and expanded by consecutive rulers from the Mughal and Dogra dynasties featuring a blend of Mughal and Dogra architectural styles. There are several temples and mosques in the fort as well.
Location: Purani Poonch, Poonch, Jammu and Kashmir, 185101
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fees:₹10 for adults, ₹5 for children
7. Hiranagar Fort
Photo: Plasmid / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Also known as Jasmergarh Fort, Hiranagar Fort is one of the most popular forts in Jammu. It was built by Maharaja Hari Singh, who is reportedly the founder of the Hiranagar town as well. Today, the fort remains in ruins, showcasing the history and architectural influence of the Dogra kingdom. Beyond the significant remnant of the history of the Dogra clan, the fort also has a Kali temple within the complex. Besides exploring the ruins of the fort, most devotees visit this place to seek blessings from Goddess Kali in the temple.
Location: F765+RC9, Kathua, Hiranagar, Jammu and Kashmir 184142
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
Suggested Read: Museums In Jammu And Kashmir
8. Basohli Fort
Photo: Nilamgandhre / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Located in the Kathua district in Jammu, Basohli Fort is another must-visit spot in the city. What once served as a significant place for the empire of Raja Bhoopat Pal now remains in ruins. The fort is located on top of a hillock and has three main halls that you can distinctly witness – Durbar Hall, Rang Mahal and Sheesh Mahal. Being an engineering marvel, the fort was designed in a way so that the palace remained cool during the summers and warm during the winter months. As for architecture, there are intricate carvings and designs throughout the fort.
Location: GR28+HW8, Near Ram Lila Ground, Basohli, Jammu and Kashmir 184201
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
9. Dharnidhar Fort
Photo: Nilesh.shintre / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Dharnidhar Fort is one of the least explored forts in Jammu, located in Rajouri town in Jammu. According to historical evidence, the fort was constructed by Mian Hatu, who was the then-governor of Rajouri. The fort was constructed in the 19th century, making it one of the “newer” forts in the area. Instead of using new construction materials, the entire fort was made using the debris that was collected from the destruction of the buildings of Jasral Rajas. The main objective behind the construction was to act as a storehouse for all the grains that would feed the Dogra kingdom.
Location: 98PC+4MJ, Rajauri, Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmir 185131
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
Suggested Read: Jammu Temples
10. Mubarak Mandi Palace Complex
Photo: Jehangir / Wikimedia Commons
Last on the list of the famous forts in Jammu include the Mubarak Mandi Palace Complex. Although primarily a palace, it also features fort-like structures that highlight its defensive importance. The construction of this palace started in the 19th century and prolonged until the 20th century. It served as a point of residence for the Dogra kings. Featuring a blend of Rajasthani, Mughal, and European styles, the fort has grand halls, arches, and even expansive balconies, which are noteworthy attractions. The Pink Hall, now housing the Dogra Art Museum, and the Sheesh Mahal are popular spots to explore.
Location: Mubarak Mandi Heritage Complex, Panjtirthi, Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir 180001
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
Several forts in Jammu hold a lot of historical significance and are nothing short of engineering and architectural marvels. Each fort, with its unique story, construction, and strategic importance, offers a window into the history of Jammu. If you are planning to explore these Jammu forts, sort out your logistics and plan a trip with TripXL for the best deals and discounts.
Cover Photo: Vedant Sharma / Wikimedia Commons
