India has a rich past and a long history of kings battling it out to assert their dominance over the land or to increase the size of their kingdoms. You already know how this great nation came to be. To protect the nation from an attack, forts were built at strategic locations to espy approaching enemy and served as the first line of defense.
The rule of kings, queens and the British might be over, but these fortifications still stand strong as constant reminders of the past. Your list of tourist places in India should include these grand structures, because they play a big part in the nation’s history.
- Gwalior Fort in Gwalior
Gwalior Fort is situated in Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the biggest forts on the country. The intricate architecture and flawless design will have you staring at it wide eyed. This historical monument was built by Rana Man Singh Tomar in the 8th century. The mighty structure is well known for the Sas Bahu Temple, Man Mandir and Gujari Mahal temple, presently a museum. The Gwalior Fort is very popular tourist attraction and appears on postage stamps too.
- Red Fort in Delhi
The Red Fort is a very iconic fort in India. It was built by Shah Jahan in 1648, the then Mughal Emperor. The fort is called Lal Quila because it’s made out of red sand stone. There are many structures within the fort walls like the Indian War Memorial Museum, Archaeological Museum, Diwan-i-Aam, Moti Masjid and many other features that will transport you back in time. Every year on Independence Day the Prime Minister of India addresses the public and hoists the tri-colors at the Red Fort.
- Mehrangarh Fort in Rajasthan
At 400 feet above the city of Jodhpur, the Mehrangarh Fort presents a clear view of the city and its boundaries miles away. The Mehrangarh Fort is one of the largest in the country and was set up more than 500 years ago by Rao Jodha. Within the tall walls of the fort lies beautiful architecture in the form of the Moti Mahal, Sheesha Mahal, Chamunda Devi Temple and museum and other marvelous creative structures.
- Jaisalmer Fort in Rajasthan
The Jaisalmer Fort was established in 1156 AD, by Rawal Jaisalthe Rajput ruler in the remarkable Thar Desert. It is Rajasthan’s second-oldest fort and one of the largest in the worldwide. Sonar Quila as it’s also known is situated at approximately 250 feet above the city, on a triangular hill. The Royal Palace, Jain Temple and huge magnificent gates are the main attractions on the inside.
- Kangra Fort in Himachal Pradesh
In 1009 AD the Royal Family in Kangra set up this fort, in the Kangra valley where the two rivers Manjhi and Banganga meet. This beautiful monument is one of the largest in the Himalayan region and one of the oldest in the world. Also the famous Vajreshwari temple is located here.
