Forts of Uttar Pradesh, List of Most Famous Forts of Uttar Pradesh

Forts of Uttar Pradesh: A state with a rich cultural legacy and historical significance, Uttar Pradesh is frequently referred to as India's heartland. Ancient temples and opulent palaces are among the state's many architectural wonders. The forts of Uttar Pradesh stand out among its many attractions as representations of the area's strategic significance and royal past. We shall examine five of Uttar Pradesh's most well-known forts in this article, each with its own fascinating past and stunning architecture.

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Forts of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is home to a remarkable array of forts that showcase the state's rich historical and architectural heritage. Among the most notable is Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its stunning Mughal architecture and sprawling complex, which includes majestic palaces and impressive defensive walls. Jhansi Fort, famously associated with Rani Lakshmibai, stands as a symbol of valor and resistance during the 1857 uprising. 

Other significant forts include Allahabad Fort, strategically located at the confluence of three rivers, and Kalinjar Fort, perched atop a hill with ancient temples that reflect its storied past. Each fort tells a unique story, offering visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of India's historical empires and their architectural prowess.

 List of Most Famous Forts of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is home to a remarkable collection of forts that reflect the state's rich historical and architectural heritage. These forts, each with their unique stories and significance, offer a glimpse into the glorious past of Indian royalty and strategic military importance. Here is a list of the most famous forts in Uttar Pradesh:

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• Agra Fort

One of the most well-known forts in India is Agra Fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Until the capital was moved to Delhi, the Mughal rulers' primary home was this enormous red sandstone fort, which was constructed in the 16th century by Akbar. Among the many historical occurrences that took place at the fort were Aurangzeb's captivity and Shah Jahan's coronation.

The Jahangir Mahal, the famous Moti Masjid (Pearl Mosque), the Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience), and the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience) are among the many magnificent buildings that are part of the fort complex. The magnificence of Mughal architecture is reflected in the elaborate carvings, expansive courtyards, and imposing gateways, such as the Delhi Gate and Amar Singh Gate.

• Jhansi Fort

During the Indian Rebellion of 1857, Jhansi Fort—also called Rani Jhansi Ka Quila—served as a symbol of bravery and defiance. Rani Lakshmibai, the queen of Jhansi, fought valiantly against the British army from the fort. The fort, which was constructed in the early 17th century by Raja Bir Singh Deo of Orchha, is an example of Bundela Rajput architecture.

The fort is distinguished by its enormous walls, underground passages, and bastions. Among the fort's notable buildings are the Ganesh Mandir, Panch Mahal, and Baradari. Artefacts and weapons used in the 1857 uprising are on display in the fort's museum.

• Allahabad Fort

The Allahabad Fort, which was constructed in 1583 by Emperor Akbar, is located where the Ganges and Yamuna rivers converge. It has great historical and religious significance and is the biggest fort that Akbar constructed. The fort was used as a British military garrison after playing a significant part in the 1857 Indian Rebellion.

The Ashoka Pillar, which was built in the third century BCE, three splendid galleries, and the fort's enormous walls are its most notable features. Its spiritual significance is increased by the Patalpuri Temple inside the fort and the Saraswati Koop, a well believed to be the source of the Saraswati River..

• Fatehpur Sikri

Emperor Akbar constructed Fatehpur Sikri, the capital of the Mughal Empire, in the late 16th century. It is now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. But soon after, the city was abandoned because of a lack of water. With its magnificent palaces, courtyards, and mosques, the fort complex is a monument to Akbar's architectural skill and vision.

The Buland Darwaza, the world's largest gateway, the Jama Masjid, and the Tomb of Salim Chishti are all part of the fort complex. Other noteworthy buildings in the complex are Jodha Bai's Palace, Panch Mahal, Diwan-i-Am, and Diwan-i-Khas.

• Kalinjar Fort

One of India's oldest forts, Kalinjar Fort, is situated in the Banda district. It was first used during the Gupta era. For several dynasties, notably the Mughals and the Chandela Rajputs, the fort has served as a crucial bastion. It was essential to the defence plan for the area.

The Alamgir and Hanuman Gates are two of Kalinjar Fort's colossal gates. There are numerous temples, palaces, and water tanks within the fort. Among the noteworthy buildings inside the fort are the Sita Sej, a cave with prehistoric engravings, and the Neelkanth Temple, which is devoted to Lord Shiva.

• Chunar Fort

Chunar Fort, which is located in the Mirzapur district and is situated on the banks of the Ganges, has a Mauryan origin. The Mauryas, Shungas, Guptas, and Mughals are among the dynasties that have controlled it. Because of its placement on a hill with a view of the river, the fort was strategically important in maintaining control over the area.

The enormous stone walls, historic temples, and elaborate sculptures of Chunar Fort are well-known. The Sonwa Mandap, the Sun Clock, and a British cemetery are all part of the fort complex. The fort's magnificent vista of the Ganges adds to its appeal.

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• Sikandra Fort

Emperor Akbar's last resting site is Sikandra Fort in Agra. Akbar himself started the fort's construction, and his son Jahangir finished it. Hindu, Islamic, Christian, Buddhist, and Jain architectural styles are all perfectly incorporated within the fort.

Akbar's Tomb, a spectacular red sandstone and white marble edifice, is the major draw of Sikandra Fort. Encircled by verdant gardens, the tomb boasts elaborate carvings, exquisite archways, and a spacious central courtyard.

• Ramnagar Fort

Kashi Naresh Raja Balwant Singh constructed Ramnagar Fort in Varanasi in the 18th century, on the eastern bank of the Ganges. The Maharaja of Varanasi resides in the fort, which is a superb illustration of Mughal architecture.

The Durga Temple, the Dakshin Mukhi Hanuman Temple, and the Veda Vyasa Temple are all part of the fort complex. In addition, the fort has a museum with an amazing collection of manuscripts, old cars, royal costumes and historical weapons.