Introduction

Located 105 kilometers (65 miles) from Khajuraho in Uttar Pradesh, it is one of the most imposing forts in India. A tad smaller than India's largest fort at Gwalior, Kalinjar stands on an 800 feet (244 meter) high hill. The height combined with size gives it an aura or invincibility. It makes for an awe-inspiring view.

Although the exact date on of its construction is shrouded in mystery, historians believe that this fort was built by the Chandela king Kedar Burman in the 9th century CE. It was ruled by various Hindu dynasties and later on went into the hands of Muslim rulers briefly. But with the exception of the Chandela dynasty to which the credit for building this fort goes, none of the later rulers could hold on to it for a length of time. In 1812 it fell into the hands of troops of the British East India Company.

The only way to reach the fort is by ascending the stone steps. It has seven gates namely the Alamgir Darwaza, Ganesh Dwar, Chauburji Darwaza, Buddha Bhadra Darwaza, Hanuman Dwar, Lal Darwaza and Bara Darwaza. There are a number of interesting buildings within the fort ramparts. The Chandelas were great devotees of Lord Shiva, but also showed keen interest in building temples of other deities. The Chandelas were great patrons of art and architecture and the temples within the Kalinjar fort bear testimony to this fact. The Neelkanth Mahadev temple is one of the most impressive. The entrance of this temple resembles a cave. Trimurti images depicting the faces of the three principal Hindu gods - Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva - in a composite form is also very impressive.

Kalinjar means 'the destroyer of time' in Sanskrit, an ancient Indian language. Kal is time, while jar means destruction. It is commonly believed that Lord Shiva had slain the god of time here. Since then the hill on which the Kalinjar fort stands is considered holy. This hill finds a mention in both Mahabharata and the Puranas. It was long believed to be the haunt of Shiva’s ascetic followers.

Special Attributes

A towering fort, among the largest in India

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Avoid wearing anything too revealing

Connectivity

Taxi is the best option

Enjoyed by

History and architecture enthusiasts

Exposure

Carry your sunglasses and a bottle of drinking water

Avoidable Season

April, May, June, July

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

At some point this was the political capital of the Chandelas, visit it to get a wider picture of their rule

Type of site

Fort