Bhuj is a very important city in the state of Gujarat. All types of entertainment can be had in this city and there are a number of historical places worth a visit. The city was devastated in the earthquake of 2001 but it has been renovated and almost completely restored.

The Bhujia Hill Fort lies on the outskirts of Bhuj, a town in Gujarat, on the Bhujia hills – hence the name Bhujia Hill Fort. The fort was originally constructed for the purpose of shelter during battles. After independence it has been given to the Army to store ammunition although this is a disputed fact. There is a temple of the Snake God – Naga Devata – in the fort and the doors are open to public on Naga Panchami day – a festival celebrated to appease Naga Devata - when a fair is held at the fort. One can see a panoramic view of the town of Bhuj from the fort.

History

The Bhujia hill lends its name to the city of Bhuj. The fort which was first constructed by the Jadeja Chief, Rao Godaji for the purpose of safety and defence during battle, also derives its name from the hills. Rao Godaji was the ruler of Kutch. He initiated the construction of the fort in the year 1718, which was completed by his son Maharao Deshalji I in 1741.The Diwan of Kutch, Devakaran Seth took the lead in the construction of the fort.

During the reign of Deshalji I, Sher Buland Khan, the Mughal Viceroy of Gujarat invaded Kutch and the first battle was fought at the Bhujia Fort. A group of Naga Bawas – an Indian tribe – got the gates of the fort opened on the pretext of worship at the Nag Temple and forced the Mughal army to flee. Till date the Naga Bawas have a place of importance in the Naga Panchami celebrations.

Fort Attractions

The snake temple and the Naga Panchami fair are the main attractions of the fort. The fort and the city of Bhuj get its name from the Bhujia hills where the fort is situated. Originally built as a safe house and for defence during battle, the fort is now owned by the Indian Army and used to store ammunition. It is therefore not generally open for public viewing. The doors are thrown open during the Naga Panchami festival when a fair is held at the fort to appease the Snake God – Bhujang Naag.

At other times a walk around the fort is pleasant and the view of the hills is breathtaking and photographic.

In order to reach the fort, you will have to climb some steep steps. If you follow the trail from the parking to the fort, you will come across the Bhujanga Naga Temple which is dedicated to the Snake God. Bhujanga Naga is said to be the brother of Sheshnag who is the Netherland Lord. Folklore has it that Bhujanga Naga came from Kathiawar – another town in Gujarat – to Kutch and released it from demons or rakshasas.

How to Reach Bhuj

By Train

Bhuj is connected to all major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Ahmadabad by train. Fares are reasonable.

By Air

Bhuj has its own domestic airport which is serviced by Jet Airways. The Sardar VallabhBhai Patel Airport at Ahmadabad is the nearest international airport. You can take a flight, train, or bus to Bhuj from Ahmadabad.

By Bus

Bhuj is very well connected by bus. Busses are available to and from all neighboring cities in the state of Gujarat to Bhuj. Gujarat State Transport busses are the cheapest mode of transport. For those interested the option of hiring a car is also available from major cities of Gujarat.

The Bhujia Fort is situated just outside the city and is accessible by road. Parking is available near the fort but you will have to follow a trail and climb several steps to reach the Snake Temple and the fort itself.