Anandpur Sahib Fort

Punjab, the cultural hot seat of ancient India also records a glorious martial career as evinced by the annals of history. The historic and religious side also has a bellicose face and abounds in forts and citadels. Anandpur Sahib Fort is one of the renowned forts located in the holy town.

Anandpur Sahib, located on the left bank of the mighty Sutlej river, 40 km away from the quaint Rupnagar town. The origin of the Khalsa sect can be traced to this picturesque town that was established by the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Teg Bahadur.

Located in Ropar, Anandpur Sahib town is fortified by an assortment of five majestic forts. While majority of the forts have reduced to a piteous condition by the ravages of time, the cardinal fort at Anandpur Sahib still remains standing and narrates the sad accounts of the vicissitudes of history. A unique feature of the crenellated fort is its subterranean well that can be accessed by a steep flight of stairs.

The ancient fort was established in the year 1689 and subsequently became the military headquarters of the courageous Sikh army. Anandgarh Sahib Fort, being the central fort is strategically sited and also has a remarkable religious history.

During Aurangzeb's rule, the town was invaded by the Mughal army who under the former emperor's orders arrived to take the 10th and final Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh captive. The erstwhile Sikh Guru is said to have displayed great valor as he intelligently divided the inconspicuous Khalsa army into five battalions and remained incognito in the fort's premises.