Lohagarh Fort Bharatpur Rajasthan The Impenetrable Iron Fort of India

Prabhuling jiroli

May 10, 2025 4:18 pm

Standing proudly in the city of Bharatpur, Lohagarh Fort—literally meaning “Iron Fort”—is famed for its invincibility and resistance to colonial attacks. Unlike ornate palaces of other forts, Lohagarh was built for war, not luxury. Its strength, simplicity, and strategic brilliance symbolize the Jat valor of Bharatpur.

Quick Overview

FeatureDetails
LocationBharatpur, Rajasthan, India
Founded1732 AD
FounderMaharaja Suraj Mal
Notable FeaturesMoats, mud bastions, cannons, palaces
Entry Fee₹20 (Indian), ₹100 (Foreigner)
Best Time to VisitOctober to March

History of Lohagarh Fort 📜

Construction and Jat Rule

  • Built in 1732 AD by Maharaja Suraj Mal, a Jat ruler known for military brilliance.

  • Designed to withstand sieges, especially by the British.

  • Famous for its mud walls that absorbed cannon fire—contrary to common stone forts.

Colonial Resistance

  • The fort resisted multiple British attacks, including a month-long siege in 1805.

  • British army, led by Lord Lake, failed to breach the fort despite heavy bombardment.

Present Status

  • Maintained by the Archaeological Department.

  • Fort complex includes palaces, gardens, towers, and a museum.


Why Visit Lohagarh Fort? 💼

  • Impenetrable War Fort: Unlike any other in Rajasthan.

  • Symbol of Resistance: A living testimony of anti-colonial strength.

  • Historic Cannons and Towers: Still on display.

  • Cultural Museum: Inside the palace shows Jat artifacts and Bharatpur’s glory.


How to Reach Lohagarh Fort ✈️🚄🚌

By Air:

  • Nearest Airport: Agra Airport (55 km), Jaipur Airport (190 km)

By Train:

  • Bharatpur Junction Railway Station (5 km)

By Road:

  • Bharatpur is well-connected to Agra, Delhi, Mathura, Jaipur via NH21.

  • Local autos and taxis can be hired.


Exploring Lohagarh Fort 🥾

Entry Points:

  1. Ashtadhatu Gate – Main entry near the museum.

  2. Chaurburj Gate – Historic access on eastern side.

Walking Route:

SectionDurationHighlights
Palace & Museum45 minsCostumes, weaponry, paintings
Ramparts & Bastions30 minsViews, cannons, cannonball marks
Water Moat & Gardens20 minsFloral pathways, photography spots

What to Carry 🎒

  • Hat or umbrella

  • ID card for entry

  • Camera or phone

  • Water and snacks


Gates and Towers 🏯

NameDescription
Ashtadhatu GateMade of eight metals, main gate
Jawahar BurjVictory tower built after defeating British
Fateh BurjCommemorates capture of Delhi (1764)
Kothi KhasPalace complex with museum

Things to Do 📸

  • Visit Jawahar Burj and Fateh Burj.

  • Explore the Government Museum inside the fort.

  • Stroll around the surrounding moat.

  • Attend Bharatpur’s Lohagarh Utsav if visiting in February.

Things to Avoid ❌

  • Avoid venturing into restricted buildings.

  • Don’t litter or damage antique cannons.

  • Avoid peak midday in summers.


Best Time to Visit 🌞

  • October to March: Pleasant winter for heritage walk and sightseeing.

When to Avoid

  • April to June: Scorching summer heat.

  • Monsoon (July–September): Muddy areas around moat may be slippery.

Whom Should Avoid

  • Visitors with limited mobility (some steps have no rails).

  • Children unsupervised near the water moat.


Fascinating Facts About Lohagarh Fort 📌

  • Its walls were never breached despite several attempts.

  • Cannons recovered from battles are still mounted.

  • Designed using earthen ramparts which absorbed cannonballs.

  • Named ‘Lohagarh’ because it was as strong as iron (Loha = iron).


Accommodation Nearby 🏨

Hotel NameTypeDistance from Fort
Hotel Udai Vilas PalaceLuxury2 km
Hotel SunbirdMid-Range3 km
The Birder’s InnBudget1.5 km

Travel Tips 🧭

  • Combine visit with Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary.

  • Visit during Republic Day week for local festivals.

  • Check if museum section is open (closed on Mondays).


Summary Table

SectionHighlights
History1732 AD by Maharaja Suraj Mal, never conquered
Trekking/RoutesWalk through ramparts, towers, moat
What to CarryHat, ID, camera, water
AttractionsPalace, museum, towers, moat
Best Time to VisitOctober to March
AvoidSummer afternoons, monsoon mud

Conclusion ❤️

Lohagarh Fort doesn’t boast opulence—it exudes unshakable strength. A fort that defied the mighty British, it remains one of India’s few unconquered forts. Visiting Lohagarh is like walking through the battle-hardened pages of Rajasthan’s proud Jat legacy.