Lohagarh Fort in Bharatpur

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Bharatpur is one of the historical heritages of India. Rajasthan was mostly ruled by Rajputs. The Jat rulers constructed many forts and built palaces so beautifully that still attracts number of tourists every year across the world. Being a part of India, Bharatpur also shares a little ancient architectural side. Lohagarh Fort is situated in Bharatpur in Rajasthan state. The fort is the focal point of the town. The Jat rulers in Bharatpur built it. Maharaja Suraj Mal used his power and wealth to build numerous forts and palaces across his kingdom.

About Lohagarh Fort Maharaja Suraj Mal Jat is the founder of the fort and also the constructor. The fort is protected by deep moats. The gate of this fort has also an interesting story behind it.

• The fort is named as Lohagarh Fort as it was the strongest build fort ever. The name indicates that the fort is iron fort and is inaccessible. Maharaja Suraj Mal built two towers inside the fort, the jawahar Burj and Fateh Burj to celebrate his victories over the Mughals and the British.
• There are two gates to the Lohagarh Fort. One of the gates at the north is known as Ashtadhaatu gate which means that it is made up of eight metals. It is adorned with beautiful and huge paintings of elephants. The gate at the south is called Chowburja, meaning four pillared gate. It is believed that the gate of Lohagarh Fort originally belonged to the fort of Chittorgarh. Later this gate was carried away by the Sultan Alauddin Khilji of Delhi. The victorious Jat army bought it from Delhi to Bharatpur at the end of 17th century.
• This fort is different from other forts in Rajasthan as there is no flamboyance associated with it. The fort reflects an aura of strength and magnificence. There is a moat surrounding the fort. It was filled with water earlier to keep away the enemies. As the legend goes, it was believed that the fort would fall only if the crocodiles swallowed all the water from the moat. The sandy ramparts are strengthened by sandy battlements and hence enemy guns failed in the attack.
• Lohagarh Fort is one of the finest architectural monuments in Rajasthan. There are some other monuments within the fort. They include kishori Mahal, Mahal Khas, Moti Mahal and Kothi Khas.
• There is a government museum within the fort complex. This part of the fort is called as Kamra palace. The museum exhibits a rich collection of artifacts and beautiful sculptures. It also displays ancient inscriptions and important pieces of historical importance. Maharaja Balwant Singh built Mahal khas and other royal apartments. The windows of the rooms are latticed with stone set in arched alcoves. The walls are painted with multi colored designs.

Some Attractions of the Fort

• Ganga Mandir Temple: Construction of this temple started in 1845. A unique method was used to build this temple. All persons employed in the service of the state donated one month's salary to the construction of the temple. This temple is a wonderful example of architecture.
• Nehru Park: It is located in-between the museum and the main entrance of the fort. You can enjoy pleasant breeze which is very relaxing and calming.
• Laxman Mandir: This temple reflects amazing works of stone, built and designed beautifully. Cravings are wonderful on ceilings, walls, doorways, and pillars.
• Vijay Sabha: There is an Iron pillar which is in the palace complex known as Vijay Sabha.

Lohagargh is one of the tourist destinations that you must visit on your trip to Rajasthan. You will get the real essence of the Rajput and Moghal era here.