5 Lesser Known Forts in India: Part II

With a long-standing historical connection, forts in India are nothing short of riveting mysteries. Not only do they acquaint us with the legacy of rulers and kingdoms, but also lay emphasis on minute details of history. Take a look at 5 lesser known forts in India in our second and last part of the series:

Bidar Fort, Karnataka

To begin with, this fort has over 30 monuments inside its walls. And it also has seven gates stretching from east to west and thirty-seven bastions. Located at the edge of the Bidar plateau, it was built for Sultan Alla-Ud Din Bahman when he shifted his capital from Gulbarga to Bidar in 1427. A rhombus-shaped layout, the fort is made of red laterite stone and includes pavilions, and mosques, amongst other structures. 

Bekal Fort, Kasargod

With its beaches and scenic sunsets, Kerala has always been one of our favourite holiday destinations. Adding more to the list is Kasargod in Kerala which has the stunning Bekal Fort. It is comfortably situated by a beach spanning about 35 km on steep hills near the sea. Built from a military standpoint in the Malabar region, it was a strategic move against combat invaders from the sea. The site also houses an observation tower, a temple and some laterite sculptures. 

SEE: 10 Not-To-Miss Historical Bridges in India

Sisupalgarh Fort, Odisha
Situated on the outskirts of the city, this fort is a reminder of Odisha's glorious past. It is reminiscent of a lost, ancient urban city near Bhubaneswar. Various excavations have taken place here in different phases, revealing architectural patterns and artefacts. One of the most striking features are the pillars which are visible from a distance. Look carefully, and you can see various patterns and designs, including carvings, spread across most of the ruins. 

Elgandal Fort, Telangana

A panoramic view of the city beneath and a vast skyline above it, the Elgandal Fort narrates the story of Telangana’s history. It is characterised by archways, minarets and water tanks within the complex. Did you know that the two pillars in the complex—Do Minar—are approximately the same height as the minarets of Charminar in Hyderabad?  

Karnala Fort, Maharashtra

This fort is situated on a hilltop and overlooks the connection between the Konkan coast and interiors of Maharashtra. It is comfortably nestled in the Karnala bird sanctuary, close to Panvel in Raigad district. A bonusis the trek through lush green forests that takes you the fort. It is not for the faint-hearted though. However, what awaits at the end is one helluva magnificent view.

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