{"id":71798,"date":"2024-09-18T11:23:04","date_gmt":"2024-09-18T11:23:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/tripxl.com\/blog\/?p=71798"},"modified":"2024-12-09T05:00:19","modified_gmt":"2024-12-09T05:00:19","slug":"bhujia-fort","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/tripxl.com\/blog\/bhujia-fort\/","title":{"rendered":"Historic Bhujia Fort: Glimpse Into Gujarat’s Royal Past"},"content":{"rendered":"

Gujarat\u2019s Kutch district is home to the maximum number of forts, big and small. Among the many, Bhujia Fort is one of the most historically significant spots. Located on the outskirts of the city, the fort stands as a reminder of the past. Most people suggest that more than the grandeur of the temple, and the beauty of the views from the top of the Bhujia Hill, visiting this fort is a worthy affair. Despite its remote and offbeat location, adding the fort is a non-negotiable the next time you are in Bhuj.<\/em><\/p>\n

Location<\/h2>\n
\"An<\/div>\n

Photo: Vedant Agrawal \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

The fort is located atop Bhujia Hill, approximately 3 kilometres from the city centre of Bhuj, Gujarat. The hill lies at an elevation of 160 metres, offering stunning panoramic views of the surroundings. <\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Explore Lakhpat Fort For A Sneak Peek Into Gujarat\u2019s Royal History<\/a><\/p>\n

About<\/h2>\n
\"Explore<\/div>\n

Photo: Prashant Kharote \/ Unsplash<\/a><\/p>\n

Bhujia Fort, also known as Bhujiyo Dungar, was constructed in the early 18th century by the Jadeja rulers of Kutch. It is believed that the fort\u2019s construction was first commissioned by Rao Godji I during 1715\u20131718 and the construction finished under his son, Deshalji I\u2019s reign between 1718\u20131741. Due to its strategic location, the fort has sustained through six terrifying and destructive battles between 1700 and 1800. The battles were between the Rajput rulers of Kutch and Muslim raiders from Sindh and the Mughal rulers of Gujarat. The fort is named after Bhujang Nag, the serpent deity worshipped by the local Naga tribe. <\/p>\n

How To Reach<\/h2>\n
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Photo: Vijay8808 \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

By Air:<\/strong> Your nearest airport from the fort is the Bhuj Airport, located roughly 5 km from the city. From the airport, it is better to hire a taxi to take you to the fort.<\/p>\n

By Train:<\/strong> Bhuj Railway Station is the nearest railway station to the Bhujia Fort. From the railway station, you can easily reach the fort by hiring a taxi or an auto-rickshaw.<\/p>\n

By Road:<\/strong> Bhuj is well-connected by road to major cities in Gujarat and neighbouring states. State transport buses and private buses operate regularly from the nearby cities. Once you successfully reach Bhuj, you can hire local transport like an auto-rickshaw to reach the fort.<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Forts In Gujarat That Are Architectural Marvels And Define A Glorious Past<\/a><\/p>\n

Things To Do<\/h2>\n

1. Explore The Fort\u2019s Unique Architecture<\/h3>\n
\"Explore<\/div>\n

Photo: Yogesh YK \/ Pexels \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

The most important aspect of exploring the fort is to immerse yourself in the unique architecture. There are narrow passages and sturdy gates with carvings on them, which you can stop to admire and take pictures of. Also, despite the fort having been in the middle of numerous wars, the robust construction has stood through the difficult times. The fort\u2019s walls were built using locally sourced stone and reflect the cultural heritage of Kutch. <\/p>\n

2. Trek On Bhujia Hill<\/h3>\n
\"Witness<\/div>\n

Photo: Tuong Chopper \/ Wikimedia Commons \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

If you are an adventure enthusiast, you can indulge in a trek through the hill to reach the top where the fort lies. The trek is relatively easy and takes about 30-45 minutes to reach the top. The trail is dotted with rocky outcrops and sparse vegetation, offering a rustic charm that is quintessentially Kutch. However, the terrain can be pretty rough and uneven, so ensure that you are wearing comfortable shoes.<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Best Picnic Places In Gujarat For Unforgettable Family Adventures And Relaxation<\/a><\/p>\n

3. Enjoy Panoramic Views From The Top<\/h3>\n
\"Witness<\/div>\n

Photo: Setu Chhaya \/ Wikimedia Commons \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

From taking Bhujia Fort photos to capturing the panoramic views of the surroundings, there is a lot that you can immerse yourself in by the time you reach the top of the hill. On a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of the Great Rann of Kutch as well, which is quite enchanting. Also, the sunset views from the top of the hill are quite a treat to the eyes as well.<\/p>\n

Places To Visit Around Bhujia Fort<\/h2>\n

1. Aina Mahal<\/h3>\n
\"Explore<\/div>\n

Photo: Nizil Shah \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

The Aina Mahal, or the Palace of Mirrors, is a magnificent structure located in the heart of Bhuj. It was originally constructed by Rao Lakhpatji in the 18th century. Inside the palace, there is a museum that is renowned for housing some of the most historical spots including the royal artefacts, paintings, and the famed Hall of Mirrors, all of which are a must-visit the next time you are around Bhuj.<\/p>\n

Distance From Bhujia Fort:<\/strong> 6.5 Km
\nTimings:<\/strong> 9 AM – 12 PM and 3 PM – 6 PM<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> The Ultimate Travel Guide To Gujarat\u2019s Historic Kanthkot Fort<\/a><\/p>\n

2. Prag Mahal<\/h3>\n
\"Witness<\/div>\n

Photo: Zeel Satyendra Modi \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

Located right beside the Aina Mahal is the Prag Mahal, which is another significant historical landmark that you must visit. It dates back to the 19th century and has a blend of Indian and Gothic styles, which is quite enamouring to witness. Also, the entire palace was designed by a renowned British Architect at the time, under the reign of Rao Pragmalji II.<\/p>\n

Distance From Bhujia Fort:<\/strong> 6.5 Km
\nTimings:<\/strong> 9 AM – 6 PM<\/p>\n

3. Kutch Museum<\/h3>\n
\"Learn<\/div>\n

Photo: Nizil Shah \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

Kutch Museum dates back to 1877, making it one of the oldest museums in the area. Inside, there are numerous different exhibits, including ancient coins, inscriptions, tribal costumes, and weaponry. You also get a glimpse into the local culture of Kutch, adding to the significance of its existence.<\/p>\n

Distance From Bhujia Fort:<\/strong> 4.6 Km
\nTimings:<\/strong> 10 AM – 5 PM (Wednesday closed)<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Top Beaches In Gujarat For A Perfect Coastal Getaway<\/a><\/p>\n

Where To Stay<\/h2>\n
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Photo: Ansar Muhammad \/ Pexels \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

If you are planning to spend a few days exploring the fort and the surrounding areas and sightseeing experiences, you\u2019d need to book your accommodation in Bhuj. There are budget-friendly accommodations available like The Presidential Suites, Hotel Tulsi Residency and Hotel Kutch Desert. For the ones wanting to stay in five-star luxury properties, consider booking your stay at The Fern Residency, Bhuj, Hill View Resort Bhuj-Kutch and Pride Rock Resort & Restaurant.<\/p>\n

Where To Eat<\/h2>\n
\"Savour<\/div>\n

Photo: Kaapeine \/ Wikimedia Commons \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

Since the fort is located remotely, there aren\u2019t many restaurants or eateries right around the fort. You\u2019d need to head to the main city of Bhuj to find good restaurants. A few of the must-visit spots include The Grand Flavors, Lucky Restaurant and Noorani Restaurant.<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Top Fascinating Museums In Gujarat You Need To Visit<\/a><\/p>\n

Best Time To Visit<\/h2>\n
\"November<\/div>\n

Photo: Djordje Ristic \/ Pexels \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

For a comfortable time exploring the fort and the surrounding areas, you\u2019d better book your trip during the winter months. November to February accounts for the best time to visit since the weather is quite pleasant, especially with clear, sunny skies. You wouldn\u2019t have to worry about sudden downpours. The temperature averages from 12\u00b0C to 25\u00b0C, ensuring that you have a comfortable time.<\/p>\n

Other Factors To Consider<\/h2>\n
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Photo: Kira auf der Heide \/ Unsplash \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

Tips For Travellers<\/strong><\/p>\n