One can almost hear the sounds of the historical moments that have happened at a place, if they are able to connect to it on a deeper level. At nowhere is this phenomenon more pronounced than in the ancient forts and the same is true for the forts in Gujarat. These famous forts in Gujarat tell the glorious stories of the days gone by as they are visited through some of the best road trips in Gujarat:
Uparkot Fort is perhaps one of the oldest forts in Gujarat. This more than 2300 years old fort has around 20 metres high walls in some of its parts. There was a 300 feet deep moat within the walls of this fort in which crocodiles used to live in. You can still find caves and step wells in the fort. Some of the most important attractions here are Manek and Neelam that were brought by the Turks. The entry fee to take a tour of the fort is Rs 25.
Timing: 8 am to 6 pm
Bhadra fort was named after the Bhadrakali temple that is placed inside the premises of this fort. Spread over 44 acres of verdant landscape, you can see intricate carvings, lattice work, and frescos in this fort, which make its architecture one of a kind. You can have the best scenic view of Ahmedabad from this fort.
Timing: 9 am to 5 pm
Diu fort was built by Portuguese during the colonial era. This is a fort cum castle, which is located on the West Coast of Gujarat. Constructed in 1535, this fort was used by the Portuguese for 424 years. You can see three churches and one Shiva temple in the fort. This is a major tourist attraction in Gujarat.
Timing: Sunrise to Sunset
Surat Castle, formerly called as Old Fort of Surat is an ancient monument built in the 16th century. The initiative of building the castle was taken by the Ahmedabad king Sultan Mahmood-III, which was then entrusted to Safi Agha, a Turkish soldier. The castle was completed in 1546.
Timing: 10 am to 6 pm
Would you believe that a town is situated inside a fort? Well, that is a truth. Lakhpat is a small town in the district of Kutch and located inside the Lakhpat fort. The town has been of prime importance in the state as it connects Gujarat with Sindh. The fort covering 7 kilometer was built by Jamadar Fateh Muhammed in 1801. Try visiting the fort during the sunrise or sunset, to have a splendid view of the nature.
Timing: 6 am to 6 pm
The Champaner fort was constructed by the rule of Champaner around the city. Today, you will not see much of the reminiscence of the old fort, but you can explore the fort and its massive structure. Try climbing up to the top of the fort to have a wonderful view of the city of Champaner.
Timing: 8.30 am to 5 pm
About 50 km from Bhuj, there is a village called Roha where Roha fort is located. Spread across an area of 16 acres, the fort was used as the seat of power of Rao Khengarji I in between 1510 and 1585. This fort witnessed the suicide of around one hundred and twenty Rajput princesses from the Soomra clan who chose to die than being taken away by the invaders.
Timing: 6 am to 6 pm
Kanthkot fort dates back to 843 AD. The fort was used by several rulers. There are three temples located in the fort,
Timing: 10 am to 1 pm; 2.30 pm to 5.30 pm
The Tera fort is situated at a distance of 85 km from Bhuj. It was built in the 18th century by the Jadejas during the period of Deshalji I. Some parts of the fort were later damaged by Maharaja of Lakhpat, to whom the ruler of this fort then surrendered.
Timing: Sunrise to Sunset
Perched at an elevation of 1,670 feet above sea level, the Roopgadh fort was built in the 17th century by Pilaji Rao Gaikwad of Gaikwad dynasty. You will also find a Hanuman temple beside the fort and few cannons near it.
Best time to visit: September to March
Indragadh fort was constructed in the 17th century by Indrasal Singh Hada. Located near a mountain, the fort is known for its unique structure of colossal walls and four gates. There are three palaces that are situated inside this fort. The names of the palaces are Janana Mahal, Supari Mahal and Hawa Mahal.
Timing: All through the year
Arjungadh fort, also called Bagwada Fort, is located near Vapi. The fort has bastions on its four corners. You can have wonderful view of the land from the bastions.
Best time to visit: October to March
The Fort of King Maharaja Malavrav Gayakwad is situated in Kadi. You can visit this fort to witness its architecture and huge bastions.
Best time to visit: November to February
Not much is left in Idar fort at the present day. However, it is a great place for trekkers, as they have to trek in order to reach the fort.
Best time to visit: Mid of monsoon
The Lakhota fort was built in mid of a lake which acted as a moat. When you visit this fort now, you will be able to see the museum where artifacts from 9th to 18th century are maintained.
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
To reach Vighakot fort, you have to travel through Gujarat State Highway 45. The strong walls of the fort will take you to the days of the past. You might need special permission to visit the fort or Vighakot Border post.
Best time to visit: all round the year
Analgadh Fort is placed on a small hill, and you will find Kalaka mataji temple here. Many people visit this fort for a day picnic. There is no specific opening and closing time at this fort.
Best time to visit: July to October
The forts in Gujarat are an absolute must visit for the history aficionados but they can also make for an exciting trip with the entire group of friends and families. While you are planning to fetch out the history of the forts, you can visit these is by utilizing the car rental services by Revv. This ensures that you are spending your precious downtime in company of the ancient forts and not waiting for your taxi to arrive.
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