Himachal Pradesh is not exactly known for its forts.
But there are some really fabulous forts the mountains of Himachal Pradesh are hiding.
One such historic fort is the Banasar fort, better known as the Gorkha fort.
This fort is around 200-year-old and was built during the reign of Gorkhas in Himachal.
It is believed that Gorkha army commander Amar Singh Thapa got it built as a symbol of Gorkha power in the hills.
This fort is located near Banasar village in Solan district of Himachal Pradesh. Kasauli is the nearest hill station.
To reach Banasar, you need to take a link road to Bhojnagar from Chakki Mod on Kalka Shimla highway. From Bhojnagar, Banasar is 12 kms.
From Bansar, a short trek through a pine forest will take you up to this amazing fort.
It’s a breathtaking view as you stand at the base of this fort and look up the imposing and overpowering structure.
Banasar fort must have seen better days
Built on a hill top with vertical slopes on the sides, the fort must have had been truly inaccessible in its heyday.
A narrow path and stone stairs take you inside the fort. You need to be careful while taking steps on the narrow path.
The fort has watchtowers on its four corners with small rounded stairs to reach the top.
There are small openings in the walls for using weapons and for letting the light in.
It’s a marvellous fort. But sadly, it’s in ruins.
Trees and wild bushes have grown inside and the walls appear to be on the verge of crumbling down.
Cracks and fissures have appeared on the fort’s front walls.
If steps are not taken to restore it, we may lose this historic heritage in the years to come.
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