Monuments are an integral part of our history. They are indeed a reflection of our glorious past and form a part of our rich cultural heritage. Moreover, monuments indirectly highlight the level of economic prosperity and technological progress achieved at that point of time, state of administration prevailing during the reign of a particular ruler, architectural designs, quality of material etc. It is very true that every monument has a story to tell and the legacy is being carried forward since time immemorial. Historical monuments now have emerged as major tourist destinations in the present times. That’s why; historical forts have become an important source of foreign earnings and even provide employment to several people.

Here’s a list of top 10 historical forts in India:

10. Chittorgarh fort, Chittorgarh

Chittorgarh, a place in Rajasthan is known for its monuments particularly the Chittorgarh fort. The fort stretches over a huge area and serves as an example where royal people preferred to die rather than submitting themselves to their enemies as they faced defeat in wars. The Chittorgarh fort exemplifies the bravery of Rani Padmini and that’s why the folklores about her gallantry are very popular in the entire region. Moreover, there are several museums, temples and halls inside the fort and thus it serves as a major tourist destination.

9. Jhansi fort, Jhansi

The fort in Jhansi was built by Bir Singh Ju Deo, the king of Orcha, in 1613. The fort proudly talks about the courage and heroism of Rani Lakshmi Bai, the queen of Jhansi. Moreover, the fort has ten gates including the Khandero gate, Datia Darwaza, Jharna gate, Sagar gate and many more.

8. Gwalior fort, Madhya Pradesh

The Gwalior fort is popularly known as the “Pearl in the necklace of the forts of Hind.” The fort has several beautiful works of art inscribed on its inner and outer walls as well as pillars. Owing to its massive structures, the Indian Postal services has even issued a postal stamp with the photo of this grand fort.  The Gwalior fort was built by the Mughal emperor, Babur and thus occupies a significant place in our history.

7. Junagarh fort, Bikaner

The Junagarh fort was built in 1589 AD in the heart of Bikaner. The present city of Bikaner indeed has developed around this fort. This massive fort is primarily popular for its rare art works, corridors and walls which highlight the cultural heritage of India. Interestingly, the fort witnessed the grandeur of as many as 20 rulers of Bikaner.

6. Golkonda fort, Hyderabad

The Golkonda fort was built by Pratap Rudra of Kakatiya dynasty which is 11 kilometres away from the city of Hyderabad. However, the fort underwent numerous constructions and renovations during the reign of Ibrahim Quli Qutub Shah Wali. The fortress is presently situated on a hill approximately 120 metres high in Golkonda.

5. Daulatabad fort, Aurangabad

The fort definitely occupies an important place in the history of human civilisations. It was built in the 14^th century by Raja Bhillamraja. The Daulatabad fort has several entry gates which might boggle the travellers. Moreover, the fort is situated at the top of a steep isolated hill in Daulatabad. However, its grandeur is epic! The city of Daulatabad is also known as the “city of fortunes”.

4. Jaisalmer fort, Rajasthan

The city of Jaisalmer was predominantly ruled by the Rajput rulers for a substantial period of time. Quite naturally, the Jaisalmer fort is symbolic of the luxurious lifestyle of Rajput rulers. Its grandeur and architecture can simply mesmerise the tourists particularly its yellow sandstone. It is also included in the list of World heritage sites. Built by Rao Jaisal, the fort shines brightly as the golden fort amidst the vast stretches of Thar Desert.

3. Agra fort, Agra

The city of Agra is renowned for its monuments and fortresses particularly, the Taj Mahal and the Agra fort. The red stone fort at Agra proudly talks about the historic events related to the Mughal dynasty. The Agra fort can be aptly described as a walled city. It is included in the World Heritage site by the UNESCO. Moreover, the fort is a beautiful example of Indo-Islamic architecture as pictures of elephants; flowers as well as calligraphy can be found here. The tourists can enter the fort via its four gates and then the widely spread lawns give them a pleasing welcome!

2. Amer fort, Jaipur

The pink city of Rajasthan is a famous tourist destination all-round the globe. One of its forts, Amer fort charms the tourists with its grand structure and beauty. It is situated in the Aravalli hills of Rajasthan. The fort serves as an epitome of the blend of Hindu, Muslim and Rajput architectural designs. The Amer fort was built by Raja Man Singh I. As you enter the main fortress, the Maota lake surely has a soothing effect on the visitors. The aesthetic ambience of the Amer place points out to its significance in the earlier times. E.g. Diwaan-e-khaas, Diwaan-e-aam, Jai mandir etc.  are some of the important places inside the fort.

1. Red fort, New Delhi

The red sandstone structure which stands beautifully amidst the buzzling area of Chandni Chowk in New Delhi is our Red Fort. It was built by Mughal emperor, Shahjahan in 17^th century. It took almost 10 years to complete the construction of this fort entirely. Moreover, the fort is originally known as the “Quila-e-Mubarak” and there are several public and private places, gardens and mosques inside the Red Fort. Quite significant, the Prime Minister of India hoists the National flag at Red fort on the Independence Day, every 15^th August of the year.