Located 12 km away from the city of Jhalawar, Gagron Fort is among the impressive ancient forts constructed in Rajasthan. The present structure of this fort was built over several centuries with its construction beginning as early as the 7th century. However, it was first established in 1195 AD by Raja Bijaldev of the Parmara Empire. As per legend, the place was also known as 'Galkangiri' as it is believed that the powerful sage Garg Rishi achieved immense reparation and meditation in this fort.
Gagron Fort is the only hill and water fort in Rajasthan and has been included in the list of World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The fort is surrounded from three sides by the tranquil waters of Ahu and Kali Sindh. On the remaining side, there was once a deep moat which completed its defences. A sight to behold, Gagron Fort is an exceptional fort which is bordered and secluded by a 'Van' as well as a 'Jal Dunrg', forest-protected and water-protected.
Gagron is a ‘Jal Durg’ or Water Fort and it is impregnable as it is surrounded from three sides by the gushing waters of Ahu and Kali Sindh rivers. The rivers confluence right outside the fort. This offers a majestic and breathtaking view of the surroundings from its ramparts.
One striking feature of this fort is that it has no real foundation as it is build over a solid rocky hillock. The fort is now inhabited by peacocks and parrots.
There are both Hindu and muslim shrines in and around the fort. It has temples of Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha and Goddess Durga inside the fort. There is a Dargah of Sufi Saint Mitheshah fright outside the fort where a fair is held every year during the islamic month of Muharram. Near the fort there is a monastery dedicated to Saint Pipa who is a contemporary of Saint Kabir.
Achaldas Khinchi was the last Khinchi-Chauhan ruler of the historically renowned Gagron Fort. In 1423 AD, Sultan Hoshangshah of Mandu surrounded the fort with 30 thousand horsemen, 84 elephants and numerous infantry with many other rich kings. When Achaldas realized the tremendous army and advanced weapons of the enemy, he clearly estimated his defeat. At that point in time, instead of surrendering in front of them, he sacrificed his life while fighting with valor. Following that thousands of women embraced death to protect their self-respect from the enemy.
The Jal Durg of Gargron is situated 14 Kms from Jhalawar City. Kota is 88 Kms from Jhalawar.
Jhalawar is connected by road and rail to Kota. Kota is well connected to major cities in country. Indore in madhya Pradesh is the nearest airport at 232 Kms.
