Bhangarh Fort is a historic site located in the Alwar district of the state of Rajasthan, India. It is known for its haunting reputation and is often referred to as the "Most Haunted Place in India." While the fort is renowned for its paranormal stories, it also has a fascinating historical background.
Bhangarh Fort was built in the 17th century by Raja Bhagwant Das, who was a Rajput ruler and the younger brother of Man Singh I, a general of the Mughal Emperor Akbar. The fort was constructed as a defensive structure on a hillside in the Aravalli range, with the purpose of guarding the trade routes between Jaipur and central India.
The fort complex covers a significant area and consists of various buildings, including temples, palaces, gardens, and water reservoirs. It is surrounded by a massive boundary wall with four main entrances. The architecture of Bhangarh Fort reflects a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles.
Legend has it that the fort was cursed by a holy man named Guru Balu Nath. According to the story, the holy man granted permission for the fort's construction on the condition that no building within the complex should be taller than his own abode. If any structure violated this condition, the entire fort would be doomed. However, one of the rulers' successors constructed a palace that exceeded the height of the saint's residence, leading to the fort's downfall.
Another popular legend associated with Bhangarh Fort is the story of Princess Ratnavati. It is said that she was exceptionally beautiful, and a sorcerer named Singhia fell in love with her. He tried to use dark magic to seduce her, but the princess discovered his plan and foiled his spell. In a fit of rage, Singhia cursed the fort, predicting its destruction and the death of all who lived within its walls.
Despite the legends, the actual decline of Bhangarh Fort is believed to have occurred due to various historical factors. The fort was abandoned in the late 18th century after facing repeated attacks from the Marathas. It is believed that an earthquake further damaged the structures, leading to its eventual abandonment.
Today, Bhangarh Fort remains in ruins, but it continues to attract visitors from around the world due to its intriguing history and alleged supernatural experiences. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has declared the fort a protected monument to preserve its architectural and historical significance.
Bhangarh Fort is located in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, India. Here's how you can reach Bhangarh and explore nearby places:
By Air: The nearest airport to Bhangarh Fort is Jaipur International Airport, which is approximately 80 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bhangarh Fort.
By Train: The closest railway station to Bhangarh Fort is Alwar Junction, located around 32 kilometers away. Alwar is well-connected to major cities in India via regular train services. From Alwar, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Bhangarh Fort.
By Road: Bhangarh Fort is well-connected by road, and you can reach it by hiring a taxi, taking a private car, or using public transport. The fort is situated approximately 15 kilometers off the Jaipur-Alwar Highway (NH-11A).
Nearby Places to Visit: Once you reach Bhangarh Fort, you can explore some nearby attractions as well. Here are a few popular places to visit:
Abhaneri Stepwell: Located around 35 kilometers from Bhangarh, Abhaneri Stepwell is an ancient stepwell known for its intricate architecture. It is a beautiful and historically significant site to explore.
Sariska Tiger Reserve: Situated approximately 50 kilometers from Bhangarh, Sariska Tiger Reserve is a wildlife sanctuary known for its diverse flora and fauna. It offers an opportunity to spot tigers, leopards, deer, and various bird species.
Siliserh Lake: Located around 40 kilometers from Bhangarh, Siliserh Lake is a serene artificial lake surrounded by hills. It is a popular spot for boating and enjoying the scenic beauty.
Alwar City: Alwar, the nearest city to Bhangarh Fort, is known for its rich history and architectural wonders. You can visit attractions like Alwar City Palace, Moosi Maharani Ki Chhatri, and the famous Alwar Market.
Please note that Bhangarh Fort is open from sunrise to sunset, and entry is restricted during the night due to its haunted reputation. It's always a good idea to check the local guidelines and timings before planning your visit.
Timings of the Bhangarh Fort : The Bhangarh Fort is open on all days from 6 am to 6 pm and 11.15 pm to 3.30 am.
Best time to visit the Bhangarh Fort : The best time to visit the fort is from October to February during the winters when the weather is bearable.