Uncover The History Of Jalalgarh Fort: A Marvel of Architectural Excellence

The famous fortress of Jalalgarh Fort in Purnea, Bihar

Jalalgarh Fort is an ancient fortress in Bihar. Many tourists visit the place, primarily praising its amazing architecture. This fort is believed to be 300 years old and was built during the mediaeval period. With multiple places to visit around the fort’s location, this site becomes a chosen place to explore. Though this fort is less popular than other famous forts of India, the Jalalgarh Fort holds much significance in the history of India and has a storied past.

Jalalgarh Fort Location

The peaceful location of Jalalgarh Fort in Bihar—One of the best places to visit

Photo: Neil Satyam / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Jalalgarh Fort is 20 kilometres north of Purnia village in Bihar. It is said to have been built by Saif Khan, the Faujdar of Purnea in 1722.

How To Reach Jalalgarh Fort

 Local bus transportation available to reach Jalalgarh Fort in Bihar

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Here is the list of ways you can reach the iconic Jalagarh fort in Purnea district of Bihar.

By Road: Jalalgarh Bus stand is only five minutes away and you can easily take a bus or hire a taxi from there.

By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri which is at a distance of 3 hours. Visitors shall land at this airport and then can hire a taxi to Purnea to visit Jalalgarh Fort.

By Train: Purnea Railway station is the nearest train station to Jalalgarh Fort. Visitors shall get down at this station and hire a taxi or local transportation to reach the fort.

Places To Visit Near Jalalgarh Fort

Explore the nearby places on your visit to the beautiful Jalagarh fort in Purnea, Bihar

1. Maa Puran Devi Temple

Pooja Thali at a temple near Jalalgarh Fort—One of the idyllic places in Bihar

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Maa Puran Devi Temple is one of the oldest temples in Purnia. The temple is believed to be at least 500 years old. This temple is solely dedicated to Goddess Puran Devi which is an incarnation of Goddess Kali. It is also said that Puran Devi is another fierce form of Devi Kali. The temple witnesses devotees coming from many parts of the state and beyond. The idol of Puran Devi at this temple is studded with gems and decorated daily with beautiful sarees.

Distance From Location: 17 km

2. Manihari

 The water at Manihari Ghat, a place to visit near Jalalgarh Fort

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Manihari is a beautiful town in Bihar. This town shares its proximity to Purnia where Jalalgarh Fort is located. This place is a notified area in the Katihar district of Bihar. One of the famous spots of the town is Manihari Ghat. This picturesque town is located on the northern end of River Ganges and because of this town, the town gets flooded every year. The place is peaceful and ideal for spending a day or two.

Distance From Location: 75 km

3. Forbesganj

Forbesganj is an interesting place to visit near Jalalgarh Fort

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Forbesganj is a city located near Purnia in Bihar. The city is sharing its border with the neighbouring country of Nepal. This city is named after Alexander John Forbes who was the British District Collector and Municipal Commissioner. The place offers beautiful views of the surroundings due to its proximity to Nepal. The city is known for its magnificent temples and breathtaking landscapes. It is also ideal for kayaking and canoeing activities.

Distance From Location: 54.5 km

4. Kishanganj

A neighbouring town to Purnia, Bihar

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Kishanganj is a town in the Purnia Division of Bihar. The city is surrounded by lush greenery and is a chosen place to spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Being an agricultural town, Kishanganj is known for its fertile lands and other beautiful locations. One of the interesting destinations to visit in Kishanganj is the ancient Kishanganj Fort which is currently in ruins. There is a beautiful lake called Kachhudah Lake on the outskirts of the town too.

Distance From Location: 79 km

5. Munger

The magnificent Munger Fort, a place to visit near Jalalgarh Fort

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Munger is a city located on the southern banks of the River Ganges. It is very close just eight kilometres away from Jabalpur Junction and can be accessed easily. One of the famous temples in Munger is Sitacharan Temple which was built on the moulder in the middle of River Gange in Munger town. This place has its roots steeped in the culture and traditions of Hinduism. Munger is also famous for the Durga Puja festival as devotees join from borders and beyond.

Distance From Location: 178 km

Where To Stay

Room of a hotel near Jalalgarh Fort in Purnea district of Bihar

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There are multiple options to stay near Jalalgarh Fort in the town of Purnia and its neighbourhood. These options range from budget-friendly hotels to guest houses and homestays. A few of the notable options are Hotel Centre Point, Hotel Kaushaki, Hotel Crystal Blue, Royal Villa Guest House, Hotel Biraj International and Hotel Holiday International.

What To Eat

Yummy food dishes served at a restaurant near Jalalgarh Fort

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There are multiple options to dine near Jalalgarh Fort. These restaurants are either located in the town of Purnia or in the surrounding area. All restaurants cater to every individual’s taste and promise a unique experience. A few key options include New Pearl Restaurant, Heist Inn, MUMG Kitchen, Biryani Mahal, Sundaram’s Rolls, The Chopsticks, The Central Jail Restaurant and Harishankar Veg Restaurant.

Best Time To Visit

An aerial view of Purnia, where Jalalgarh Fort is located

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If you wish to avoid crowds when you visit tourist attractions in Jalalgarh, Purnia, try visiting on a weekday instead of a weekend. Visiting the tourist attraction in Purnia during the off-season is another way to avoid crowds while travelling. The fort is open 24 hours. According to the season, visiting Purnia and other cities of Bihar during winter promises a unique experience. The weather is pleasant and calm, offering a peaceful experience.

Other Factors To Consider

Auto rickshaws outside Jalalgarh Fort in Bihar

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There are a few things one should keep in mind while planning to visit Jalalgarh Fort in Bihar:

Average Cost Of The Trip

The average cost of a trip to Jalalgarh Fort is INR 500. The fort does not have an entry fee hence the only cost that occurs is travelling.

Tips For Travellers

Keep all your cash and valuables under lock and key in your hotel room. Avoid carrying and exhibiting them in busy streets.

Jalalgarh Fort in Purnia is a testament to the architectural beauty that the state still preserves. Though this fort is not as famous as compared to other forts in Bihar and beyond, Jalalgarh Fort equally bears the significance. Today, it reflects the history of the region and is a chosen place to explore. It is an amazing tourist destination and if you want to have a memorable visit, plan your next trip to Bihar with TripXL.

Cover Photo: Carport / Wikimedia / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

Jalalgarh Fort is an almost 300-year-old ruined fort located 20 km north of Purnia, Bihar, India. It is said that this fort was built by Saif Khan who was once the Faujdar of Purnea in 1722.
Winter is considered an ideal season to visit Jalalgarh Fort, Purnia and other cities of Bihar. The weather during this time is pleasant and calm and lets visitors make the most of their trip.
Bihar is one of the most sacred places of various religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, Many tourists travel to Bihar to visit their pilgrimage. Mahabodhi Temple, a Buddhist shrine and UNESCO World Heritage Site is also situated in Bodh Gaya.
Yes. It is advisable that you buy elaborate medical and travel insurance in advance from your country before travelling to India.
Some of the top places to visit are Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, Nalanda University, and Vishwa Shanti Stupa.

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