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The oldest fort in India which withstood even the great Akbar!

Kangra fort in Dharamsala is the oldest fort in India.

By Vineeth Mohan

India is renowned for its majestic and grandeur forts which have stood the test of time! Forts were the symbol of pride and dignity for ancient rulers and each king or chieftain had their capital in a fort around which a township grew. Let's travel to one of the most celebrated ancient forts in India - Kangra fort in Dharamsala!

The oldest fort in India

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Kangra fort is located in the town of Dharamsala at a distance of about 20 kilometres. The fort was written about by the scribes of Alexander the Great, thus making it the oldest fort in India!

The mighty Kangra fort!

The oldest fort in India

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Located in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, Kangra fort is the largest fort in the Himalayas. Set amidst lush green foliage, this oldest fort in India is built by the royal Rajput family of Kangra state. It traces its origin to the ancient Trigarta kingdom in Mahabharata!

Kangra fort is situated right next to Kangra town and boasts of an opulent history! The scribes of Alexander the Great have written about this mighty fort, thus making it the oldest fort in India. Kangra fort in Dharamsala also resisted a seige from the Mughal emperor Akbar in 1615!

The oldest fort in India

PC : John Hill

Things to do near Kangra fort

Kangra fort is set in a beautiful backdrop! The fort stands on a steep rock in Old Kangra, dominating the surrounding valley. It is built strategically at the confluence of two rivers - Banganga and Majhi. The panoramic view from the fort is stunning with sprawling green valleys and beautiful gurgling rivers.

The oldest fort in India

PC : John Hill

Jayanti Mata temple, located on a hillock nearby, attracts many tourists. A museum close to the entrance of the fort exhibits the profuse history of Kangra fort.

Kangra fort timings : Kangra fort is open to public on all days from 9 AM to 6 PM.

How to reach Kangra fort : Kangra fort is located 20 km away from the town of Dharamsala. Gaggal airport in Dharamsala is 23 km away form the fort and Kangra railway station is just 3 kilometre away.

The oldest fort in India

PC : Vssun

Did you know? Kangra fort is built at the 'sangam' (confluence) of two rivers - Banganga and Majhi. Because of this strategic position, it was said that Kangra belonged to the one who owned the fort!

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