Date: 28 Nov 2018
Venue: Dharmashala, Himachal Pradesh
The Kingdom of Trigarta finds mention in the epic Mahabharata. Trigarta spread until Jullundur Jalandhar in Punjab and covered parts of Himachal Pradesh. Kangra Fort in the Trigarta region perhaps does not go back to Mahabharata times. But then it has been around since BEFORE eleventh century. It is merely 20 km from Dharmashala and we have been to Mcleodganj many times. Yet it was only this time, when we were in Kangra Valley attending Trigart Art Festival on invite from Himachal Pradesh Tourism, that we could make it to Kangra Fort.
Kangra Fort has a complex history. You get audio guides at the gate and it is well-worth getting one of those. To put it simply – the fort was built by the Rajput Katoch dynasty. It changed hands many times moving to Mughals and then back to Rajputs and finally to the British. It is arguably the largest fort in Himalayan region and perhaps the oldest documented fort in India.
The fort is at various levels and while climbing up, we could see various influences. A lot of the temple has been lost in the passage of time. From whatever remains, we loved the cosy standalone Jain temple housing Lord Rishabhnath inside. The other side was slightly concealed and when we climbed down to a courtyard below, we saw beautifully carved Ganga, and Jamuna statues. There was a Lakshmi – Narayan temple here. At this point it started raining and the dry stone structure around transformed to a beautiful moss green-brown earthy colour. It was November and the chill rose with the late afternoon rain. We were part of a group and everyone was pulling out their woolens.
It is a long walk up, but when we reached the top, the view from the sprawling open terrace was breathtaking. We could see a huge expanse of Kangra Valley. A loan dry tree punctuated the rooftop. It was like a sentinel from yester years and made us quiet and pensive.
We have seen forts in Gwalior, Jaipur, Kumbhalgarh and so on. But this fort in Himachal had its unique flavour. Dharamshala/Mcleodganj are popular tourist spots and the area sees heavy footfall. So if you are in this region, make it a point to visit Kangra Fort. Did we mention it is a shutterbug’s delight too and you would not be disappointed.
Interview. I think I’ll keep this in mind when i visit the north next. Not far from my in-law’s place these destinations are.
This fort has a stupendous view. I’d love to visit this place.
This must be a truly incredible experience – I love anything involving history and learning about other cultures.
The fort looks majestic and it’s great that you can get an audio guide at the entrance to learn about its history. I always go for them, as they have so many insights of a site.
This looks like such a fun place to visit. I would love to make my way to India one day.
This is so neat! I would love to explore a fort like this. It is so impressive! I need to get here one day.
That fort would be fun to explore. The view at the top would be worth the walk for sure.
What an amazing experience it must have be! The place looks incredible. And so much history!
Wow I can only imagine how wonderful this place is. I bet you enjoyed the whole trip. Can’t wait to go visit! Thanks for sharing.
Xo
Candace
It does look pretty stunning alrite!!! I’d say you had a great day out