The fort city of Kalinjar in Bundelkhand, Central India is positioned in the Banda District of UP. Located near the World Heritage Site Khajuraho, this fort is located very strategically along the isolated ranges of the Vindhya at a height of 1203 ft. This fortress, given its strategic position and importance has continued to serve many dynasties in Bundelkhand such as the Chandela dynasty and the Solanki dynasty. You will come across a plethora of temples that go back as early as the Gupta dynasty in the 3rd to 5th centuries.

History

Controlled by the UP Government, this fort is presently in a ruined condition. Built of granite stones, this 10 century fort has seen a number of wars taking place & some took place under Mahmud of Ghazni in 1023, Sher Shah Suri in 1545, British in 1812 & the 1857 Sepoy Mutiny. One of the vital elements of this hill fortress is the Kalinjar. This antique factor has received special mention even in Mahabharata. Originally Kalinjar stands to be the 'destroyer of time'. According to legends, Lord Shiva, after drinking poison from the Manthan, came to Kalinjar to gain victory over death. This is why the Shiva Temple in Kalinjar is known as the Neelkantha Temple. This hill is also considered as a major holy site. The lush green surroundings make this place perfect for meditation as a unique feeling of enchantment still lingers around this place.

Layout

In terms of grandeur, artistry and elegance, this fort definitely didn't have any contenders. The Chandelas were the longest reigning rulers to have controlled this fort. This fort was an important factor in the 1857 Mutiny. The perfect example of military architecture, the Kalinjar Fort remained as the Chandela stronghold between the 9th to the 15th centuries and maintained its strategic importance during the Mughal rule. There are a number of legends linked to this place. Bargujar Kings, according to modern historical accounts are the constructors of this place from 150 to 250 CE.

Encircled by ramparts with four gates, the fort still has three gates namely Kamta Dwar, Panna Dwar and the Rewa Dwar. The entrance lies at the foothill and to the right one finds the Rathore Mahal built in 1583. The path to this fort is marked by seven gates namely the Alamgir Darwaza, Ganesh Dwar, Chauburji Darwaza, Budha Bhadra Darwaza, Hanuman Dwar, Lal Darwaza and Bara Darwaza. The fort represents some fine specimens of sculptures.

Visitors Information

The important places of interest are:

• Sita Sej
• Patal Ganga
• Pandu Kund
• Budha Budhi Taal
• Gajantak Shiva image or the Manduk Bhairon
• Kothi Tirth
• Neelkantha Temple with the sculptures of Shiva, Kaal Bhairon, Hanuman & Ganesha

Important artifacts in the fort include the promotion of art and architecture by the Chandelas. The Neelkantha Temple Shivalinga featuring a height of 4.6 feet is a major artifact of interest. The Venkat Behari Temple is another important place of interest inside the fort as it represents a unique dome like structure that's not generally used in Hindu temples. The palace of Prince Aman Singh is another beautiful structure to visit. Cemented roads through the mountains make traveling easier.

Best Time to Visit

You can visit this fort anytime throughout the year, but it's better to avoid between the months of April to June.

How to Reach

By Air

The airport at Khajuraho, located 130 km away is the nearest airport to access.

By Rail

The Atarra railway station 36 km away is the nearest to this fort along the Banda-Satna route,which is 57 km away from Banda railway station.

By Road

Linked by road to various important parts connected to regular bus services the fort is easily accessible by road. Chitrakoot is 78 km, Banda is 62 km, Khajuraho is 130 km and Allahabad is 250 km from the Kalinjar Fort.