Forts along River Ganga

Rani Ka Garh

Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh

17 ^th  Century

The city, named after Rani Anup, features a Ghat that was specifically constructed for her. It is believed that her palace stood in this vicinity, serving as the residence for her descendants. The town's strategic position along the River Ganga attracted the rule of Afghan and Mughal rulers, who recognized its significance as a vital trade and communication route. Eventually, the town was bestowed upon Raja Anup Rai due to its favorable location along the riverbanks. The remnants of this historical legacy can still be observed in the area.

Shankar Garh Ka Kila

Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh

14 ^th  Century

In ancient times, the River Ganga was a vital communication route, attracting rulers to its banks. King Vaidya built a fort along the river, using it as a natural barrier and moat. In the 14th century, King Shankar Singh defeated King Vaidya and renamed the fort "Shankargarh ka Quila." It stands as a symbol of the river's strategic importance and historical events.

Fatehgarh Fort

Farrukabad, Uttar Pradesh

18 ^th  Century

The fort in Fatehgarh was originally constructed in 1720 by Nawab Bangash Khan, initially as a mud fort. Later, in 1755, it came under British control and underwent significant improvements, including the construction of masonry fort walls, a gate, and a moat. Additionally, in 1818, the gun carriage factory from Allahabad was relocated to this fort. Along the banks of the River Ganga, the Nawab established the Fatehgarh cantonment, strategically controlling trade and communication through the waterways. The fort's historical significance lies in its evolution from a mud fort to a fortified stronghold, reflecting the dynamic history of the region.

Jai Chandra Fort

Kannauj, Uttar Pradesh

11 ^th  Century

Raja Jaichandra established his capital in Kannauj during the 12th century and constructed a fort to expand his dominion. Tragically, his reign came to an end when he was killed by Mohammad Gauri in 1193 AD. Positioned along the banks of the Ganga, the city of Kannauj enjoyed a natural defensive advantage from one side. Over the course of history, numerous rulers sought to capture Kannauj and assert their authority in the region. This led to the construction of forts and complexes as a means of extending their rule. The rich historical legacy of Kannauj bears witness to the struggles and ambitions of these past rulers.

Ala-udin Ka Quila

Kannauj, Uttar Pradesh

16 ^th  Century

The ancient city of Kannauj holds great religious significance, attracting numerous saints who sought spiritual solace through meditation within its boundaries. This sacred site also drew Muslim pilgrims who embraced the teachings and ideologies of these revered individuals. The Rauza, which includes the tomb of a saint, stands as a testament to the spiritual heritage of Kannauj. In earlier times, Kannauj was enveloped by dense forests along the banks of the Ganga, providing a serene environment where saints traversing the river found solace and engaged in their spiritual practices. The amalgamation of these elements showcases the rich religious and cultural tapestry of Kannauj.

Sher Shah Suri Fort

Kannauj, Uttar Pradesh

16 ^th  Century

During the 16th century, Sher Shah Suri seized Kannauj from Humayun after a fierce battle and erected a fort in Daipur to consolidate his authority in the area. The ancient city of Kannauj, situated along the banks of the Ganga, benefited from a natural defensive advantage on one side. Throughout history, various rulers sought to conquer Kannauj, resulting in the construction of forts and complexes as a means to extend their dominion in the region. Sher Shah Suri's capture of Kannauj and the subsequent fortification of Daipur reflect the ever-changing dynamics of power and control in this historically significant city.

Bithoor Fort

Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh

19 ^th  Century

During the 1857 Revolt in Kanpur, Nana Sahib led a fierce resistance against the British. The Sati Chauraha Ghat witnessed a tragic event where many English men and their families were mercilessly massacred. Their bodies were callously disposed of in a well nearby. Additionally, the park featured a Banyan tree where Indians faced the punishment of hanging. The River Ganga, being a vital artery for trade and commerce, became a target for British control. However, Nana Sahib and his supporters valiantly fought against British dominance along the Ganga. The well, once a crucial resource for the local community, became a grim symbol as it was repurposed to discard the bodies of the British. This chapter in history reflects the intense struggle for independence and the harrowing consequences that unfolded along the banks of the Ganga.

Raja Rao Ram Baksh Singh Fort

Unnao, Uttar Pradesh

19 ^th  Century

The fort, built by Rao Ram Bux Singh, a descendant of Raja Abhai Chand, was bombed by the British after the 1857 Revolt. Excavations in the area have unearthed artifacts from the Neolithic era and coins from the Kushanas and Guptas. Strategically located along the banks of the Ganga and near Kanpur, this village saw the construction of forts by local rulers to control trade and communication on the river. The fort's history intertwines with its archaeological significance, providing insights into the region's past.

Dalmau Fort

Raebarelli, Uttar Pradesh

15 ^th  Century

The fort, belonging to Raja Daldev, the founder of Dalmau, covered an area of 12 bighas. It housed a military cantonment and was surrounded by a deep moat filled with water from the River Ganges. The fort's strategic location along the Ganga provided natural defense, and the kingdom extended between the Ganges and Sai rivers, from Arakh village to Kheer. This fortified stronghold symbolizes the region's historical importance and the rulers' efforts to protect their territory.

Jaichand Fort

Kaushambi, Uttar Pradesh

12 ^th  Century

The fort belonged to the Gahadvala dynasty, which ruled over the Antarvedi region in the Gangetic plains, encompassing cities like Kanyakubja and Varanasi. Tragically, the ruler met his demise in 1194 CE during a battle against Qutub al-Din Aibak, leading a Ghurid army. The strategic importance of the Ganga River prompted rulers from various regions to establish forts and camps as a means of ensuring safety and security. These fortifications stood as testaments to the historical significance and defensive strategies employed along the Ganga's banks.

Allahabad Fort

Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh

16 ^th  Century

The Allahabad Fort, constructed by Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1583, initially bore the name Illahabad, signifying divine blessings. Later, it became known as the Allahabad Fort. Remarkably, the fort encompassed the renowned Akshayavat tree, where people sought salvation through self-immolation. In February 1798, financially strained Saadat Ali surrendered the fort to the East India Company, marking its transition into a pivotal military depot. Situated near the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and invisible Saraswati rivers, the fort was strategically chosen by Akbar to govern the holy city, oversee trade and transportation, and fortify the region's defense via the Ganga and Yamuna waterways.

Ulta Quila

Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh

17 ^th  Century

The Kila, built during the reign of King Haribong, who ruled Jhusi, brought misfortune upon the town's inhabitants due to the king's ill-advised decisions. Saint Ali Murtaza, displeased with the king's actions, cursed the fort, causing a celestial event where a Mirrikh star fell upon it, turning it upside down. Situated on the banks of the Triveni Sangam, a sacred site where the Ganga, Yamuna, and invisible Saraswati rivers converge, the fort was strategically chosen by Albar as a vantage point for trade, transportation, and defense. The fort holds significant importance during the Kumbh Mela, attracting numerous visitors.

Chunar Fort

Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh

56 B.C

Chunar Fort, situated on the banks of the river Ganga, was originally built by King Vikramaditya as a dedication to his meditating brother in the forests of Chunar. Although it was not constructed as a ruling fort, it served as a significant stronghold throughout history, being occupied by rulers such as Vikramaditya, Swami Raja, Babar, Humayun, Akbar, and eventually the British.

Ramnagar Fort

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

18 ^th  Century

Ramnagar Fort in Varanasi, named after the locality it is situated in, is the residence of the Kashi Naresh (ruler of Varanasi). It holds cultural significance as the site of the renowned Ramlila performances. Built by Raja Balwant Singh, the fort is located across the river from Tulsi Ghat, where the play was written by Tulsidas. It played a pivotal role in the kingdom's administration and trade during its heyday.

Chet Singh Fort

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

18 ^th  Century

The fort and ghat were constructed by Chet Singh in 1781. The fort witnessed a significant battle between Warren Hastings and Chet Singh, resulting in the fort's surrender to the British. Later, Maharaja Prabhu Narayan Singh undertook the fort and ghat, dedicating the upper section of the ghat to the Naag Sadhus. Recognizing the sacredness of the Ganga, Raja Chet Singh built grand structures, temples, and ghats for religious ceremonies and conducted trade and commerce along the river.

Buxar Fort

Buxar, Bihar

11 ^th  Century

King Rudra Deo constructed the fort in 1054. After the Battle of Buxar, the British took control of the fort and utilized it for military purposes from 1770 to 1842. Subsequently, the Stud Department engaged in farming activities around the fort. In 1873, the area was converted into government estates. The fort's location along the Ganga provided a strategic advantage with natural defense on its northern side. The British established their authority over the fort, recognizing the significance of Ganga in Buxar as it connected the Northern and Southern provinces of the East India Company.

Munger Fort

Munger, Bihar

13 ^th  Century

The main gateway to the fort area features a clock tower added by British officer Hershchell Dear. Unfortunately, the gateway was destroyed during the 1938 earthquake but was reconstructed in 1975 by the locals. Mir Kasim recognized the strategic advantages of the natural protection provided by the Ganga and the surrounding hills, leading him to establish Munger as his capital along the river.

Teliagarh Fort

Sahibganj, Jharkhand

17 ^th  Century

The ancient pass, identified by Hieun Tsang in the 7th century, controlled the military approach to Bengal. It was erected by Shah Shuja and named after a local feudal lord. The fort, located 9 km from the main channel of the Ganga, has witnessed several battles. According to historical records, the shifting course of the Ganga suggests that the river may have once run closer to the fort, as mentioned in Ain-i-akbari. The fort's ramparts are described to extend from the Ganges to the mountains.

Raj Mahal Fort

Sahibganj, Jharkhand

18 ^th  Century

The origin of the Baradari is a subject of debate among scholars, with some attributing it to Fateh Jung Khan and others to Mir Kasim, the Nawab of Bengal. It is believed that a significant amount of building material was taken from here to construct the residence of Ruknudaulah, the Nawab of Rajmahal. The construction of such a grand palace highlights the significance of Rajmahal as a commercial and political center, facilitated by its location on the banks of the Ganga, connecting it to other influential powers within the Gangetic trade network.

William Fort

Kolkata, Kolkata

18 ^th  Century

Fort William, initially constructed near the General Post Office, was damaged during the attack by the Nawab of Bengal in 1757. A new Fort William was then built in Gobindopur, strategically located along the banks of the River Ganga. This fortified structure followed Vauban principles with bastions, earthworks, and a moat. The surrounding area was cleared for an unrestricted line of fire, and the water gate allowed the moat to be filled with Ganga's waters.