Best Forts Near Amritsar

What can one say about Amritsar? It’s easily one of the most lively cities in India. The colorful bazaars full of vibrant clothes, the tempting smell of spices from restaurants, and the joyful people all make Amritsar a fantastic place. But there’s more to Amritsar than just the famous butter chicken and bhangra. The city, and Punjab as a whole, has a rich history of battles, thanks to the Khalsa tradition started by the Sikh Gurus. Where there are battles, there are forts. In this blog, we’ll take you on a journey to discover some amazing forts near Amritsar, offering you a fresh take on this exciting city. Let’s dive in!

1.  Gobindgarh Fort

Gobindgarh Fort was originally built by a local leader named Gujjar Singh Bhangi and later renovated by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, who named it after Guru Gobind Singh. This square-shaped fort, made of lime and bricks, is located in the heart of Amritsar. The fort features four bastion towers, a rampart, and several gates. In its prime, it had 25 cannons mounted on its turrets. Recently, the Government of Punjab renovated the fort, adding attractions like a 7D show, museums, and a performance stage.

• Timings: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm

Fact : The fort is supposed to have a tunnel, which leads all the way to Lahore in Pakistan

2. Faridkot Fort

Faridkot Fort may be small, but it boasts remarkable architectural brilliance and opulence. Originally constructed in the 13th century, the fort has undergone expansions and renovations by various rulers, acquiring its present form in the 19th century. A standout feature within the fort is the Sheesh Mahal, renowned for its dazzling glass inlays, intricate bird figures, and paintings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. Additionally, visitors can explore the Moti Mahal, the treasury, the garden, the Durbar Hall, and a gurudwara, each adding to the fort’s charm and historical significance.

• Distance from Amritsar: 120 km
• Timings: Sunrise to sunset

Fact : The Durbar Hall has a system of tunnels which brings in fresh air, keeping it naturally cool even during the scorching summer.

3.Phillaur Fort

Phillaur Fort was originally built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan as a resting place for travelers along the Grand Trunk Road. Later, Maharaja Ranjit Singh turned it into a proper fort. Inside the fort is the mausoleum of a saint named Pir Baba Abdullah Shah Ji, who offered himself to be sacrificed at Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s request, following advice from a religious leader.

• Distance from Amritsar: 124 km
• Timings: Sunrise to sunset

Fact :  The European architecture of the fort is owed to French and Italian generals allied with Maharaja Ranjit Singh

     4.Bathinda Fort

Bathinda Fort, also known as Qila Mubarak, is one of the oldest forts in India, said to have been built in the 12th century. Some stories even suggest it was built by the legendary Kushana king, Kanishka, in the 2nd century AD! The massive gates and tall bastion towers are still impressive today. The fort also has a gurudwara to honor Guru Gobind Singh’s visit. Inside, you’ll find palaces and beautiful gardens where you can enjoy a relaxing time.

• Distance from Amritsar: 171 km
• Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (closed on Monday)

Fact: Razia Sultana, the first female Sultan of Delhi, was imprisoned here after her defeat. During her imprisonment, she jumped off the balcony to gather an army

   5. Qila Mubarak

Built in the 18th century by Baba Ala Singh, the founder of the Patiala dynasty, this fort is unique for combining Mughal and Rajasthani styles. Inside the fort, known as androon qila, you’ll find several palaces with colorful frescoes that show scenes from Punjabi folklore. Like many Indian forts, it also has a Sheesh Mahal. Other notable parts of the fort include the Durbar Hall, Jalau Khana, Raan Baas, and Sarad Khana.

• Distance from Amritsar: 231 km
• Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Fact: The flame burning here was brought from Jwalamukhi Temple in Kangra by Baba Ala Singh in the 18^th century.

      6.Bahadurgarh Fort

Built in 1658 by Nawab Saif Khan during Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s rule, Bahadurgarh Fort stands out because it’s circular, unlike most nearby forts which are square or rectangular. It has a moat around it and shows a mix of Mughal and Sikh architectural styles. Inside the fort, you can visit both a gurudwara and a mosque.

• Distance from Amritsar: 233 km
• Timings: NA

Fact: The fort was named Bahadurgarh in honour of Guru Tegh Bahadur, who was invited to stay here by the Nawab

The people of the city are extremely sociable and show great hospitality. For Budget Hotels in Amritsar, you can visit Hotel Global Inn Amritsar by T&G Hotels and Resorts for your comfortable stay.

Conclusion

Exploring the forts near Amritsar provides a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich history and architectural grandeur. Each fort, from the centrally located Gobindgarh Fort to the distant Bahadurgarh Fort, offers its unique charm and historical significance. Whether you’re captivated by the intricate designs of Faridkot Fort, intrigued by the tales of Bathinda Fort, or enchanted by the blend of Mughal and Rajasthani styles at Qila Mubarak, these forts promise a memorable journey through time. So, while Amritsar’s vibrant city life is unforgettable, these nearby forts add a layer of historical depth and adventure to your visit.