India, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and architectural marvels, boasts a plethora of magnificent forts that stand as testaments to its glorious past. From towering citadels perched atop hills to sprawling complexes enclosing bustling cities, these forts narrate tales of valor, power, and grandeur. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the top 10 biggest forts in India, each a masterpiece of engineering and history.
Perched at 410 feet, Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur is among India’s largest forts. Built around 1459 by Rao Jodha, it spans over 1200 acres, radiating aristocratic opulence. Adorned with intricate glasswork, the fort boasts period rooms like Sheesh Mahal and Phool Mahal, echoing a bygone era. Hosting festivals like the World Sacred Spirit Festival, it immerses visitors in cultural richness. Special evening shows unravel its storied past. Mehrangarh Fort stands as a majestic symbol of India’s regal heritage and architectural prowess, enticing explorers to delve into its grandeur.
Mehrangarh Fort of Rajasthan, spans over 1200 acres, stands as the biggest fort in India, followed by Golconda Fort, Gwalior Fort, and Chittor Fort.
Here is the list of top-10 biggest forts in India by April 2024:
Biggest Forts in India 2024 | |||
Rank | Fort | Location | Area (in acres) |
1. | Mehrangarh Fort | Jodhpur, Rajasthan | 1200 |
2. | Golconda Fort | Hyderabad, Telangana | 788 |
3. | Gwalior Fort | Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh | 741 |
4. | Chittor Fort | Chittorgarh, Rajasthan | 692 |
5. | Jaisalmer Fort | Jaisalmer, Rajasthan | 692 |
6. | Kangra Fort | Kangra, Himachal Pradesh | 463 |
7. | Red Fort | Delhi | 254 |
8. | Srirangapatna Fort | Srirangapatna, Karnataka | 240 |
9. | Panhala Fort | Kolhapur, Maharashtra | 130 |
10. | Agra Fort | Agra, Uttar Pradesh | 94 |
Location: Jodhpur, Rajasthan
Area: 1200 acres
Built in: 1459
Mehrangarh Fort, India’s grandest fortress, rises majestically at an altitude of 410 feet, covering a vast expanse of 1200 acres. Constructed in 1459 by Rao Jodha, this monumental stronghold stands as a testament to India’s rich history and architectural prowess. Hosting prestigious events like the World Sacred Spirit Festival and the Rajasthan International Folk Festival, Mehrangarh Fort is not just a historical site but also a vibrant cultural hub. Within its formidable walls lie architectural marvels like the opulent Sheesh Mahal, the magnificent Phool Mahal, and the regal Moti Mahal, along with seven imposing gates. Moreover, the fort complex houses six diverse galleries and museums, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into India’s heritage, from royal Elephant’s Howdahs to intricate paintings and artifacts.
Location: Hyderabad, Telangana
Area: 788 acres
Built in: 12th century
As the second largest fortress in India, Golconda Fort in Hyderabad sprawls across a remarkable 788 acres. Dating back to the 12th century during the Kakatiya Dynasty, this magnificent stronghold underwent significant reconstruction by various Qutub Shahi rulers by the 16th century. Renowned as a thriving mining capital, Golconda Fort garnered fame for its unparalleled diamond production, yielding legendary gems like the ‘Idol’s Eye,’ the ‘Hope Diamond,’ and the illustrious ‘Koh-i-Noor.’ Beyond its historical significance, the fort allures visitors with its architectural splendor, encompassing Qutub Shahi tombs, eight grand gateways, and an array of bastions and drawbridges. Notably, the fort’s intriguing acoustic phenomena are a testament to its ingenious Islamic design.
Location: Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh
Area: 741
Built in: 10th century
Ranked as the third largest fortress in India, the origins of Gwalior Fort in Madhya Pradesh remain a subject of debate among historians. While some attribute its construction to Suraj Sen in the 10th century, others argue its inception may date back even further. Crafted entirely from sandstone, the imposing walls of Gwalior Fort span an impressive 741 acres. Within its sprawling confines, visitors encounter a wealth of architectural treasures, including the majestic Man Mandir Palace, the ornate Sas Bahu Temple, the towering Teli Ka Mandir, the iconic Hathi Pol, and the regal Vikram Mahal. Notably, the fort’s historical significance extends to its temples, where the second oldest reference of the numeral ‘0’ is intricately carved, underscoring its ancient legacy.
Mehrangarh Fort of Rajasthan, spans over 1200 acres, stands as the biggest fort in India.
As the second largest fortress in India, Golconda Fort in Hyderabad sprawls across a remarkable 788 acres.
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