Forts in Punjab

The charming state of Punjab is a quixotic amalgam of the bucolic farmlands and bustling urban cities. The state has an age-old history whose narratives are personified by the multitude of forts and palaces. Punjab, an erstwhile princely state of India and the former empire of Maharaja Ranjit Singh is opulent in majestic and lavish palaces and crenellated forts.

The state, which played an active role in India's tumultuous struggle for Independence, was also a mute spectator to the horrors of the Jalianwala Bagh massacre.

Punjab has innumerable forts that are surrounded by rampart, crenellated walls and paint a vivid picture of the state's martial history. Among the various noteworthy forts of Punjab, the 700-year-old Faridkot Fort deserves special mention.

The interiors of the ancient fort are exquisitely decorated with Rajashthani style mirror work and are certainly worth a visit.

Qila Mubarak, the magnum opus of ancient Punjabi architecture was built under the patronage of Maharaja Ala Singh. An example of splendid beauty and excellent planning, the majestic fort cum palace has now been converted into a heritage museum.

The citadels of Bhadurgarh Fort, established by Maharaja Karam Singh of Patiala, is another imposing edifice replete with circular ramparts and water-filled moats.

Anandpur Sahib Fort, Ropar is an agglomeration of five fortresses with a subterranean well that is accessible by a steep flight of stairs.

Last Updated on 14 January 2011