Kangra Fort: A legacy of wealth, war, and an unsolved mystery

Kangra Fort, located in Himachal Pradesh’s Kangra district, stands as a silent witness to centuries of history, war, and plunder. Spanning approximately 463 acres, it is considered the largest fort in the region, with a past linked to the ancient Trigarta Kingdom mentioned in the Mahabharata.

Also read: India’s longest bus journey: 37 hours, 1950 km from Bengaluru to Jodhpur

The fort, built by the Katoch Rajputs, was a treasure trove of immense wealth. According to historical records, it once had 21 wells filled with riches. However, invaders repeatedly looted its treasures. In the 1890s, Mahmud of Ghazni reportedly plundered eight of these wells, while British forces took control of the fort and looted five more during their rule.

Despite this, local legends suggest that Kangra Fort still holds an untapped fortune, hidden in the remaining eight wells. The veracity of these claims remains unclear, but the fort continues to attract visitors intrigued by its historical significance.

Kangra Fort suffered massive destruction in the devastating earthquake of April 4, 1905. The quake not only damaged its architectural marvels but also led to the British abandoning the site. Today, the fort stands as a symbol of resilience, its ruins narrating tales of battles and lost treasures.

Easily accessible from Dharamshala by taxi or bus, Kangra Fort remains a must-visit for history enthusiasts and treasure seekers alike.