Exploring History At Amritsar's Gobindgarh Fort

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January

-0.3 - 22.7 °C

February

2.2 - 26.1 °C

March

6.1 - 32.4 °C

April

10.9 - 40.6 °C

May

16.6 - 44.5 °C

June

19.7 - 44.6 °C

July

21.8 - 39.8 °C

August

21.7 - 37.0 °C

September

18.5 - 36.4 °C

October

11.8 - 35.3 °C

November

5.2 - 30.4 °C

December

0.5 - 25.2 °C

Major Airports :

Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport (ATQ), Amritsar

Nearest Railway Station :

Amritsar Central Railway Station (ASR)

Legends brought to life within the walls

Gobindgarh Fort stands majestically in the heart of the holy city of Amritsar, spanning an impressive 43 acres along the historic Grand Trunk Road. It is a revered symbol of Punjab's stronghold and resilience.

This heritage site will bowl you over with its storied history of over 300 years, from the era of the Bhangi Misl (sovereign states of the Sikh confederacy) until the reign of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in the 18th century and through the transitions involving the East India Company and the Indian Army.

This iconic citadel is more than just a fort. It is also a living museum and home to several stories and legends about Punjab that are told through exhibits and shows.

Has the captivating tale of the Kohinoor Diamond ever left you spellbound? Then, you will be excited to know that Toshakhana, a treasure trove of numismatic wonders, is in the Gobindgarh Fort. Now a coin museum, it was once the sanctuary of the illustrious Kohinoor. Discover an impressive collection of old and rare currencies and a replica of the famed jewel (The Kohinoor) here, as the Maharaja wore it.

Step into the enchanting world of 'Whispering Walls' or 'Kanda Boldiyan Ne', a spectacular night show with projection mapping technologies and dazzling laser lights. Prepare to be captivated as every detail of Gobindgarh Fort's history comes alive here! Another captivating 7D show delves into the life of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. It's called 'Sher-e-Punjab'. It will take you back to the vibrant 19th century in an immersive experience.

Turning back the pages of history

In the 18th century, the Punjab region was divided among various clans called Misls. One notable chieftain, Gujjar Singh Bhangi of the Bhangi misl, built the 'Bhangian da Qila' mud fortress in the 1760s. Financial woes plagued the Bhangis, led by Gurdit S. Bhangi and his mother, Mai Sukhan.

Mai Sukhan demanded tribute from a trader named Arur Mal, who sought refuge with the rival Kanhaiya misl. Sensing opportunity, Maharaja Ranjit Singh allied with Arur Mal and Shaikh Kamaluddin, a prominent citizen, to seize control of the fortress and its territories.

Ranjit Singh claimed the Zamzama Cannon, Bhangian di Tope, as his share from a past war. When Mai Sukhan refused, Ranjit Singh stormed the fortress through the Ahluwalia gate, overwhelming the Bhangis.

After capturing the fortress, Ranjit Singh renamed it ‘Gobindgarh’ in honor of Guru Shri Gobind Singh Ji. This conquest marked a turning point, cementing Ranjit Singh's regional power and influence.

Interesting origins

The primary motivation behind the fortification of Gobindgarh was likely to safeguard the city of Amritsar and its revered shrine, Shri Harmandir Sahib, commonly known as the Golden Temple, against potential invaders. As a vulnerable, bean-shaped city, Amritsar faced constant threats from Afghan forces advancing from the North-West frontier. Unlike other forts positioned within the heart of historic towns, the strategic placement of this fort outside the walled city served as an impregnable bulwark, shielding the pilgrimage centre from attacks.

Between 1805 and 1809, substantial efforts were undertaken to reinforce, expand, and reconstruct the fort under the stewardship of Fakir Azizuddin, Maharaja Ranjit Singh's second governor and foreign minister. Considerable financial resources were allocated to transform the fort into a formidable defensive stronghold, aided by the expertise of French generals who had aligned with Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

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Timings

Opening time - 10:00 AM

Closing time - 10:00 PM

Stunning outside, brilliant inside

If you are fascinated by architecture, this fort makes for an interesting case study.

Crafted entirely from brick and lime, the fort is an architectural marvel. Its square layout is meticulously designed to withstand the test of time. Each corner is crowned with imposing parapets, offering defensive fortification and aesthetic grandeur. Originally, the fort boasted eight watch towers strategically positioned to surveil the surrounding landscape, while an impressive array of 25 cannons adorned its ramparts, ready to repel any potential threats. Reinforced by four robust bastions, the fort exudes strength and resilience.

At the forefront of its formidable facade stands the Nalwa Gate, serving as the primary entrance to this bastion of strength. Meanwhile, the rear entrance, known as the Keller Gate, shrouds itself in mystery, with legends suggesting the existence of a hidden tunnel leading towards the ancient city of Lahore. This enigmatic passageway adds a layer of intrigue to the fort's storied past, igniting the imagination and beckoning explorers to uncover its secrets.

As visitors traverse the grounds of this architectural marvel, they are transported back in time, where the echoes of battles fought and victories won reverberate through the corridors of history.

Beyond the fort

As you immerse yourself in the captivating history of Gobindgarh Fort, take the opportunity to venture beyond its walls and discover a wealth of other historical landmarks nestled nearby. Start your journey by paying homage to the magnificent Golden Temple, Shri Harmandir Sahib. This sacred shrine, adorned with gleaming gold and surrounded by serene waters, stands as a beacon of spirituality and unity, drawing pilgrims from across the globe. Delve deeper into the region's tumultuous past by visiting the Partition Museum, located just a stone's throw away from the fort. For a tranquil retreat amidst lush greenery, wander through the verdant expanses of Ram Bagh, also known as the Summer Garden of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

Whether you're seeking spiritual solace, historical enlightenment, or simply a moment of respite from the bustling city, Gobindgarh Fort and its surrounding landmarks promise to enrich your journey with their profound significance and timeless charm.