Bhangarh Fort History: Features, Facts, Timings & More

Bhangarh Fort also known as Bhangarh ka Kila is located in the Alwar district of the state of Rajasthan, India. Bhangarh fort history is shrouded in mystery, intrigue and paranormal tales. It is often referred to as the most haunted fort in India. People get intrigued and captivated by its dark and abnormal activities. Let us delve into Bhangarh Fort’s mesmerising history, its mesmerizing features and fascinating facts.

Commissioned by	Raja Madho Singh
Also Known as	Bhangarh ka KIla
Architectural Style	Nagara, Hindu and Persian.
Location	Bhangarh, Rajasthan
Timings	10 am to 5:00 pm; Entry is prohibited after Sunset and before Sunrise.
Entry Fee for fort	₹ 40 for Indians ; ₹ 200 for foreigners
Status	Most Haunted Place in India.

History of Bhangarh Fort

• Bhangarh Fort was built in the 17th century by Raja Madho Singh, a renowned ruler and younger brother of Mughal Emperor Akbar’s general from Amber Raja Man Singh.
• While some believe it was built by his father Raja Bhagwant Das, in the year 1573. Others allege that it was built in the year 1631 by the Kachwaha Rajput Madho Singh.
• The fort is situated amidst the Aravalli Hills and was constructed as a defensive structure to protect the Kingdom of Amber from rival kingdoms.
• Bhangarh Fort witnessed its golden era during the reign of Raja Madho Singh, who was a successor of Raja Bhagwant Das.
• Initially, Bhangarh Fort flourished as a thriving town, housing several palaces, temples, havelis, and water bodies.
• Tragically, the fort’s prosperity was brought to an abrupt end when it was abandoned in the late 18th century after facing a suspected series of military invasions.

Also Read – Red Fort History: Features, Facts, Timings & More

Features of Bhangarh Fort

Surrounded by the lush green hills of the Aravallis, the fort exudes a sense of calmness even though shrouded by mystery. Some of the features of this fort include – 

1. Architectural Marvel
   • The fort showcases exquisite Mughal and Rajput architectural styles, blending elegance and grandeur.
   • Intricate carvings, beautiful sculptures and ornate balconies adorn the fort, reflecting the artistic brilliance of that era.
2. Entry Gates
   • Bhangarh Fort boasts four majestic entry gates, namely the Lahori Gate, Ajmeri Gate, Phulbari Gate, and Delhi Gate.
   • Each gate has its unique design and significance, showcasing the craftsmanship of the bygone era.
3. Palace Complex
   • The entrance of the fort houses several temples such as the Gopinath Temple, Ganesh Temple, Keshav Rai Temple, and Someshwar Temple.
   • They represent the architectural style of the 17th century and were built in the Nagara Style of architecture.
   • The complex also consists of grand havelis like Nahar Sing Havelli, though in ruins, a dance hall that was for dancing girls known as Nartakiyon ki Havelli, a marketplace, a residence for the head priest known as Purohitji ki Havelli, etc.
   • Until 1720, the fort was surrounded by 9,000 houses.

Facts About Bhangarh Fort

The fort is situated near Sariska Tiger Reserve and surrounded by the lusciously green Aravalli mountain giving a picturesque and serene feeling.

1. Historical Monuments Survey
   • The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has declared Bhangarh Fort as a protected site, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
   • ASI restricts entry into the fort after sunset due to its haunted reputation.
2. Legend of the Curse
   • Bhangarh Fort is infamous for the legend of a curse cast by a sorcerer named Singhia on the fort and its inhabitants.
   • It is believed that the curse led to the fort’s tragic downfall and the subsequent haunting of the premises.
3. Paranormal Experiences
   • Numerous locals and tourists claim to have encountered supernatural phenomena within the fort’s premises.
   • Strange sounds, eerie sensations and unexplained activities have contributed to the fort’s reputation as a haunted site.
4. Archaeological Excavations:
   • Today, Bhangarh Fort stands as an archaeological site, attracting researchers and historians from across the globe. Excavations have revealed an abundance of artefacts, offering valuable insights into the lifestyle and culture of the inhabitants.

Also Read – Golconda Fort History: Feature, Timings, Facts & More

Exploring the Legends Surrounding Bhangarh Fort

The two legends that surround the fort and are most commonly believed in the local population are the –

1. The Love Story of Princess Ratnavati

One of the most popular legends associated with Bhangarh Fort revolves around the beautiful Princess Ratnavati. It is believed that an evil sorcerer named Singhia fell madly in love with her and tried to win her over by enchanting a cosmetic product (ittar). Sensing the deception, the princess tossed the product, which transformed into a boulder that crushed Singhia to death. Before his demise, the sorcerer cursed the fort and its inhabitants.

2. The Curse of the Saint

Another intriguing legend states that a holy man prophesied the fort’s destruction and abandonment. According to the prophecy, It is believed that the construction of the fort led to the wrath of a saint named Guru Balau Nath, who resided in a nearby cave. Before initiating the fort’s construction, the saint issued a warning that if the shadow of the fort ever fell on his retreat, its inhabitants would face doom. Unfortunately, a descendant of Raja Madho Singh, Ajab Sigh violated this warning, constructing and raising the heights of the fort. It resulted in the tragic demise of the fort’s occupants.

However, some claims believe the stories surrounding the fort are just mythical and not true. There lies no scientific proof of any ghosts or paranormal activities. The fort is in ruins because of the mismanagement of the fort authorities. 

Timings and Entry Fee of Bhangarh Fort

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is the controller of the fort and thus has set timings and entry fees – 

Purpose	Timings
Entry	10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Week Entry	Open Everyday
Entry before Sunrise and Sunset is strictly prohibited.
Entry Fee	₹ 40 for Indians ; ₹ 200 for foreigners
Video Camera	₹ 200

Other Attractions in Alwar near Bhangarh Fort

Abhaneri Chand baori for Stepwell	Sariska Tiger Reserve.
BalaQuila Fort	Siliserh Lake Palace
Moosi Maharani Ki Chhatri	The Palace Museum
Neelkant Mahadev Temple	City Palace of Alwar

The mystique and allure of Bhangarh Fort have attracted filmmakers over the years. The fort has served as a captivating backdrop for several Indian movies, further fueling its popularity. The famous movie Karan Arjun was filmed in the fort and in the surroundings of Bhangarh. In conclusion, Bhangarh Fort adds to the architectural wonder of India along with its enchanting folklore of Rajasthan. Whether you believe in the supernatural or not, its architectural grandeur coupled with the air of mystery that surrounds it, draws visitors from far and wide. 

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