History: Lohagarh Fort was constructed in the early 18th century by Maharaja Suraj Mal, the founder of Bharatpur. He was an astute military strategist and an able leader of the Jat community. The fort served as a defensive stronghold for the Jat kingdom against the Mughals, the British, and other regional powers. Remarkably, Lohagarh withstood numerous sieges, including a notable British assault in 1805 AD, which ended in a truce due to the fort’s impenetrable defences. The fort's history is interwoven with the Jat rebellion against the Mughals and their efforts to establish a stronghold in the region. Unlike other Rajasthani forts that were often overrun by invaders, Lohagarh remained unconquered, a rare feat in Indian history.
Architecture: Lohagarh Fort is a stark departure from the aesthetic opulence seen in forts like Amber Fort and Mehrangarh Fort. Its design is pragmatic and austere, focusing on fortification rather than grandeur. Built primarily from locally sourced materials like sandstone and mud, the fort’s architecture reflects the Jat ethos of resilience and practicality. The fort is surrounded by a deep moat that was originally filled with water, adding an extra layer of defense. This moat, approximately 20 feet wide and 15 feet deep, was often infested with crocodiles to deter invaders. The walls of the fort, measuring up to 30 feet in thickness and constructed from layers of mud and stone, absorbed the impact of cannonballs, reducing damage during sieges. The fort’s gates are another notable feature. The fort can be entered through two gates: Ashtdhaatu to the north and Chowburja (four-pillared) to the south. The Ashtadhatu (eight-metalled) Gate, located at the main entrance, was designed to withstand heavy battering. Adorned with intricate metalwork, the gate showcases the craftsmanship of the period while fulfilling its defensive purpose.
Structures Within the Fort: Despite its utilitarian appearance, Lohagarh Fort houses several remarkable structures that reflect the culture and priorities of the Jat rulers. These buildings serve as a reminder of the fort’s historical significance and the lifestyle of its inhabitants.
⇛ Kishori Mahal: Named after Maharaja Suraj Mal’s queen, Kishori Mahal is one of the prominent palaces within Lohagarh Fort. This structure showcases a blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles, with intricate lattice work and spacious courtyards. The dimensions of Kishori Mahal are approximately 120 feet in length and 80 feet in width, making it one of the larger structures within the fort.
⇛ Kothi Khas: The Kothi Khas served as the royal residence and administrative center of the Jat rulers. This building is characterized by its simplistic yet sturdy design, with minimal ornamentation. Measuring around 100 feet by 60 feet, the Kothi Khas was designed to ensure security while providing a comfortable living space for the royal family.
⇛ Moti Mahal: The Moti Mahal, or "Pearl Palace," is another significant structure within Lohagarh Fort. Despite its name, the palace is more functional than luxurious. It served as a private chamber for the royal family and features small, intricately carved windows that allowed ventilation while maintaining privacy. The dimensions of Moti Mahal are roughly 80 feet by 50 feet.
⇛ Jawahar Burj and Fateh Burj: There were eight towers out of them two towers- Jawahar Burj and Fateh Burj are still largely intact. The Jawahar Burj and Fateh Burj are two victory towers within the fort that commemorate the military achievements of the Jat rulers. These towers are cylindrical in shape, with a height of approximately 70 feet each. They are adorned with inscriptions detailing the victories of the Jat kingdom over the Mughals and other adversaries. Jawahar Burj is built to commemorate Maharaja Jawahar Singh's successful siege of Delhi, inflicting a defeat on the Mughals. The other tower, Fateh Burj, commemorates the victory over the British invaders of 1805. Use of tiles in construction of floors is particularly interesting and noteworthy.
⇛ Government Museum: A portion of the fort now houses the Government Museum, which showcases artifacts from the Jat kingdom and surrounding regions. The museum includes weapons, paintings, manuscripts, and other relics that offer insights into the history and culture of Bharatpur.
Best Time to Visit: Today, Lohagarh Fort is a popular tourist destination, attracting history enthusiasts and architecture buffs. Visitors can explore the fort’s various structures, walk along its massive walls, and view the exhibits in the Government Museum. The best time to visit Lohagarh Fort in Bharatpur is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring its majestic architecture.
How to Reach: The fort’s strategic location within Bharatpur makes it easily accessible, and its proximity to the Keoladeo National Park adds to its appeal. Bharatpur is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest railway station, Bharatpur Junction, is just 4 km away, while Agra’s Kheria Airport (55 km) is the closest airport. Visitors can easily access the fort via taxis or local transport from Bharatpur city center.