Whether you're a history lover or just someone who enjoys heritage walks, exploring the forts in Ahmedabad can give you a different perspective of the city’s rich past. Each fort has its own story, unique design, and purpose. Let’s take a journey together and uncover the wonders that await inside these historic walls.
Bhadra Fort - The Heart of Old Ahmedabad
Bhadra Fort is one of the most famous forts in Ahmedabad. Built in the 15th century by Ahmad Shah I, the founder of the city, this fort once formed the center of political and military activities. Located in the heart of the old city, the fort complex includes the beautiful Bhadra Kali Temple, the royal palace, and an open courtyard that once hosted royal events.
Its red sandstone structure, grand arches, and Indo-Islamic architecture leave visitors spellbound. Walking through Bhadra Fort, you can still feel the echoes of royal footsteps and the energy of the courtrooms that once decided the fate of the region.
Visitors love spending time here, not just for its history, but also for the colorful local markets nearby. The fort area becomes lively with street vendors, textile shops, and food stalls. This makes it a perfect blend of old and new Ahmedabad.
Teen Darwaza - The Royal Gateway
Right next to Bhadra Fort is the Teen Darwaza, or “Three Gates”, which once served as the ceremonial entrance to the fort. This grand gateway is another example of the fine architecture that forts in Ahmedabad are known for. It was built during the time of Ahmad Shah I and is still used today as a busy public path.
What makes Teen Darwaza unique is the blend of spirituality and governance associated with it. For over 600 years, a lamp has been burning continuously under its arch, maintained by a Muslim family in honor of a Hindu goddess. This beautiful symbol of religious unity continues to inspire the people of Ahmedabad.
While not a fort by itself, Teen Darwaza is historically connected to Bhadra Fort and forms an important part of the city’s fortified past.
Jhulta Minar - The Shaking Minarets of Curiosity
Have you ever heard of a building that shakes - but only in part? That’s what makes the Jhulta Minar, or Shaking Minarets, so mysterious. Located at the Sidi Bashir Mosque, these minarets are connected to an old structure once part of a top fort in Ahmedabad.
When one minaret is shaken, the other starts vibrating too, but the connecting passage remains still. Scientists and engineers have been puzzled by this phenomenon for years. It’s believed that this design was part of earthquake-resistant engineering, long before such techniques became common.
Though parts of the mosque and surrounding fort were destroyed over time, the minarets still attract curious travelers from around the world. They’re a hidden gem for anyone looking to explore something different while learning about the genius of ancient Indian architecture.
Dariyapur Fort Wall - Fading but Not Forgotten
In the Dariyapur area of Ahmedabad, you’ll find the remains of what was once the city’s outer defensive wall. The old forts in Ahmedabad were not just grand buildings but also systems of protection. The city was once surrounded by 12 gates and strong stone walls to guard it from invasions.
Though many parts have worn out due to time and urban development, you can still spot fragments of these walls. They remind us how Ahmedabad was designed like a fortress city, with narrow lanes, hidden courtyards, and high watchtowers.
Walking around Dariyapur, you might feel like you're discovering the pages of a lost storybook. Local people live around these ruins, and the walls have quietly blended into the daily life of the neighborhood - a beautiful sign of how history survives even when not in museums.
Why Forts Matter More Than Ever Today?
While skyscrapers rise and new roads are built, forts in Ahmedabad stand firm as reminders of where the city came from. These structures tell us about the art, politics, and life of people hundreds of years ago. They show us how Ahmedabad was more than just a trading center - it was a city of vision and culture.
Travelers often journey across the globe to explore these remarkable pieces of history. If you're planning a trip from Chicago to Ahmedabad, you’ll find yourself stepping into a city filled with rich heritage and timeless architecture. Visiting these forts can add depth and cultural meaning to your travel experience and for a smooth and affordable journey, you can book your flights with Indian Eagle.
Tips for Visiting the Forts
- Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking a lot, and some paths are uneven.
- Hire a local guide: Stories come alive when told by someone who knows them well.
- Visit in the morning or late afternoon: The weather is pleasant, and the light is great for photos.
- Respect the sites: Many of these forts are also places of worship or are located near residential areas.
- Carry water and snacks: Especially when visiting less touristy spots like Dariyapur.
The forts in Ahmedabad are more than old buildings. They are storytellers made of stone. They’ve seen rulers rise and fall, people change, and the city grow. Each gate, wall, and minaret holds secrets waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a history enthusiast, or just curious, walking through these forts is like flipping through a living history book.
So, the next time you think of Ahmedabad, don’t just think of food, festivals, and textiles. Think of the forts too. Take a step off the usual path, and you’ll find treasures where the past meets the present.
And who knows in the silence of a centuries-old fort, you might just hear the stories the walls have been waiting to tell.