Kangra Fort, Dharamshala

Visitors Information

• Famous for: History, Serenity, Photography
• Entrance Fee:150 per person for Indians and Rs.300 per person for foreigners (Fee includes audio guide)
• Visiting Time: 9 AM to 6 PM (Daily)
• Visit Duration: 1 hour to 2 hours

The historic Kangra Fort is located in the Kangra valley near Dharamshala in the state of Himachal Pradesh. Constructed long ago by the royalty of the Katoch Empire, this majestic fort is one of the oldest forts in the country. The location is famous not only for the role that it played during the course of history, but also for the mesmerizing location in which it is located. All these features make it one of the most popular places of visit in and around the area by visitors from all over the world. The architecture of the fort with its gateways, doors, courtyard and temples, all make it the perfect place for history to be revived in our minds. The statues which are present along the way further add beauty to the already breathtaking structure. The view from the top of the fort of the surrounding location is definitely worth the climb.

Traveler Tips

• Wear cozy clothing to keep the chillness of the altitude away.
• Since there will be a lot of walking around involved through the Fort, make sure to wear comfortable footwear.

Things to Do

• Marvel at the incredible construction of the ancient building as you walk through the fort through the doors to the terrace.
• Enjoy the stunning sunset and stupendous view from the terrace of the fort.
• This is a photography haven for people who can use it for photo shoots and also for the brilliant location and ambience of the place.
• Walk through the amazing history of the place as the audio guide helps you understand the stories which made the location.
• Visit the many temples inside the fort area, which add a serene aura to it.
• Eat around at the local eateries to experience some authentic food of the region.
• Pay a visit to the Maharaja Sansar Chand Katoch Museum which is located nearby.

Availability of Guides

The visitors are provided with an audio guide to walk them through the various stages of history of which the Fort has been an important part of. These guides provide all the information and are quite good indeed.

Best Time to Visit

This hill station area is best to be visited during the summer months of March to August as it has a mild and pleasant climate during that time. The winters can get too chilly and even experience snowfall. Visiting the fort during the day is perfect as the many things to see can keep you occupied even till sunset.

How to Reach

The Kangra Fort is located just outside the Kangra town at a distance of about 3 kilometers from it. Being at a distance of about 20 kilometers from Dharamshala makes it easy to reach from there. The location can be reached through public buses and even cabs.

Interesting Facts and Trivia about the Kangra Fort

• The Fort is believed to be constructed back in the fourth century and is said to have seen the events of Mahabharatha.
• Its other names are Nagarkot and Kot Kangra.
• This grand Fort was struck by a devastating earthquake in 1905 which led to its present state of ruin.
• The Fort has been constructed at the meeting point of the two rivers of Banganga and Manjhi.
• There are many gates like the Ahani Darwaza, Amiri Darwaza and the Darsani Darwaza which account to a total of seven in number.
• The rich artifacts in the fort and its strategic location has caused it to be the source of conflicts amongst the Rajputs, Sikhs and the Mughals, with it being finally taken over by the British Raj in 1846.

Nearby Restaurants

• Royal Hotel and Restaurant
• Annapurna Bhojanalya
• Kumar Sweets and Fast Food

Nearby Attractions

• Kangra
• Jwalamukhi Temple
• Ambika Devi Temple
• Brijeshwari Temple
• Jayati Mata Temple
• Maharaja Sansar Chand Katoch Museum

The serene environment in which the Kangra Fort is located makes it the perfect place to unwind and relax completely. With a treasure trove of information to gorge upon and an amazing collection of eye-catching architecture, this is a place not to be missed by history buffs, art lovers, photography enthusiasts or nature lovers.