India is home to numerous splendid forts that hold great historical significance. These forts stand as majestic reminders of India's rich heritage and have witnessed the rise and fall of empires. Visitors from around the world come to these forts to immerse themselves in their enchanting ambience and unravel the captivating stories they hold.

The country has been steeped in countless captivating chronicles, bearing witness to the historical legends that have shaped India's narrative. This journey is for you in the tapestry of India's bygone era.

Let us take a look at some of the best and most beautiful historical forts of India.

Amber Fort, Jaipur

The allure of Jaipur's remarkable fortress is so compelling that not even the blistering heat of May and June can deter tourists from venturing into this architectural gem. Blending the exquisite styles of Rajputana and Mughal architecture, this fort proudly perches atop a hill, affording breathtaking vistas of Lake Mayota.

(Image Credit: FabHotels.com)

Every step within its hallowed grounds unveils an aesthetic splendour, characterized by ornate archways and intricate doors that frame picture-perfect panoramas. The ceilings and walls of this citadel are adorned with mesmerizing mirror work, intricate carvings, and harmonious paintings that leave visitors in a state of awe and wonder.

Getting Here

• 20978 | AII VANDEBHARAT - Delhi (DEC) To Jaipur (JP)
• 14702 | ARAVALI EXP - Mumbai (ADH) To Jaipur (JP)
• 12496 | PRATAP EXPRESS - Kolkata (KOAA) To Jaipur (JP)

Gwalior Fort

Perched atop a majestic hill, the Gwalior Fort stands as a testament to its 8th-century origins, casting an awe-inspiring spectacle that rivals the brilliance of fine jewellery when illuminated by the gentle caress of sun rays. This architectural marvel unveils a mesmerizing display of artistic sculptures and attractive sapphire paintings adorning its walls, elevating its impressiveness to unparalleled heights.

(Image Credit: FabHotels.com)

Within the fortress, a haven known as Gujari Mahal has been transformed into an archaeological museum, housing a rare collection of Hindu and Jain sculptures, each a cherished relic of antiquity. Once the revered abode of the Scindia family, this fort proudly stands as one of India's most steadfast bastions, embodying a legacy that transcends time.

Getting Here

• 20172 | VANDE BHARAT EXP - Delhi (NZM) To Gwalior (GWL)
• 22221 | NZM RAJDHANI - Mumbai (CSMT) To Gwalior (GWL)
• 12175 | CHAMBAL EXPRESS - Howrah (HWH) To Gwalior (GWL)

Jaiselmer Fort, Jaiselmer

Located in the city of Jaisalmer, Jaisalmer Fort is among the largest fortifications in the world. It was originally constructed in 1156 AD by Rawal Jaisal, a Rajput ruler. Its immense yellow sandstone walls appear yellowish-brown during the day and turn shades as the sun changes its position.

(Image Credit: Thrillophillia)

This majestic fort spans an impressive length of 1,500 feet and a width of 750 feet, towering over a hill that rises more than 250 feet in height. Situated in the heart of the city, Jaisalmer Fort is one of the most remarkable monuments in the region.

Getting Here

• 15014 | RANIKHET EXP - Delhi (DLI) To Jaiselmer (JSM)
• 22931 | BDTS JSM SFAST - Mumbai (BDTS) To Jaiselmer (JSM)
• 14804 | SBIB JSM EXP - Ahmedabad (SBIB) To Jaislemer (JSM)

Golconda Fort, Hyderabad

Renowned by various names, including Golconda and Golla konda, the Golkonda Fort stands as a colossal citadel in the southern reaches of India. It proudly resides 11 kilometres west of the city of Hyderabad. Originally erected by the Kakatiya dynasty as a vital component of their western defences, this architectural masterpiece was strategically perched upon a granite hill.

(Image Credit: Housing)

Over time, the fort was fortified once again, imbuing it with even greater magnificence, under the auspices of Rani Rudrama Devi and her successor, Prataparudra.

Within the depths of the Golkonda Fort lies a crypt, once home to the illustrious Kohinoor and Hope diamonds, alongside a trove of other precious gems, a testament to the splendour that once graced this hallowed sanctuary.

Getting Here

• 12722 | DAKSHIN EXP - Delhi (NZM) To Hyderabad (SC)
• 12701 | HUSSAINSAGAR EXP - Mumbai (CSMT) To Hyderabad (BMT)
• 18045 | EAST COAST EXP - Kolkata (SHM) To Hyderabad (SC)

Bhujia Fort, Kutch

Bhujia Fort, also known as Bhujiya Fort, is a fortress located on Bhujia Hill on the outskirts of the town of Bhuj in the Kutch district of Gujarat, India. The construction of Bhujia Fort commenced during the rule of Rao Godji I (1715–1718), who was the ruler of the Kingdom of Kutch. 

It was originally built as a defensive structure to safeguard the region. The major part of the fort's construction and completion took place under the rule of his son, Deshalji I (1718–1741).

(Image Credit: VTV Gujarati)

Throughout its history, Bhujia Fort has witnessed six significant battles, most of which occurred between the years 1700 and 1800 AD.

The fort stands as a testament to the strategic importance of the region and the turbulent history of the area during that period.

Getting Here (Nearest Railway Station - Gandhidham)

• 14321 | BE BHUJ EXPRESS - Delhi (DLI) To Gandhidham (GIMB)
• 22923 | JAM HUMSAFAR - Mumbai (BDTS) To Gandhidham (GIMB)
• 22830 | SHM BHUJ SF EXP - Kolkata (SHM) To Gandhidham (GIMB)

Bidar Fort, Bidar

Bidar Fort is located in the city of Bidar on the northern plateau of Karnataka, India. The fort, along with the city and the district, shares the name Bidar. It was constructed when Sultan Alla-Ud Din Bahman moved his capital from Gulbarga to Bidar in 1427. The fort was built along with several Islamic monuments under his patronage.

(Image Credit: Viator)

Situated on the edge of a plateau, Bidar Fort has a unique and irregular rhombus-shaped layout. The fort's architecture showcases a blend of Persian, Turkish, and Indian influences, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Bahmanid Dynasty. It served as a strategic stronghold and a symbol of power during the medieval period.

Bidar Fort stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Bahmanid Dynasty and offers a glimpse into the region's history. It attracts tourists and history enthusiasts who are intrigued by its unique layout and the artistic marvels preserved within its walls.

Getting Here

• 22143 | CSMT BIDAR EXP - Mumbai (DR) To Bidar (BIDR)
• 17206 | COA SNSI EXP - Hyderabad (COA) To Bidar (BIDR)
• 16571 | YPR BIDR EXP - Bangalore (YPR) To Bidar (BIDR)

Conclusion

A rich and colourful history is one of the things India is most renowned for across the world. The many historical firsts of India have a lot to say about many aspects of the country's journey through the ages. Besides attesting to the military might of the many kingdoms, these are also architectural marvels, displaying creativity even through conflict.