Faridkot Fort

The state of Punjab has witnessed a yarn of ordeal and torment. The city of Faridkot has played an important part in the Indian struggle for freedom. The enduring forts and fortresses of Punjab have been witness to legacies of courage and valor, that were used to save this picturesque state from marauders. The Faridkot Fort is one such fort, which has withstood the ravages of wars and battles.

Like many other forts in Punjab, thick and impregnable walls fortify the Faridkot Fort. These walls are the success factors behind the invincibility of the fort. Though the fort cannot withstand the new technology of air attacks, its skirmishing power cannot be underestimated. Even today, this majestic fort stands like a brave warrior on the landscape of Faridkot, Punjab.

It is said that this fort is around seven hundred years old. The king Mokulsi built this fort to protect his kingdom from invaders. During those times, the whole village was confined within the walls of the mighty fort. During that time, the fort was known as Mokulhai, but in due course of time, its name changed to Faridkot Fort. Raja Ranjit Singh was the last king to possess this fort, after which he had to surrender it to the Britishers in 1809.

Along with the strategic importance of the Faridkot Fort, the Sheesh Mahal in the fort also deserves an exploration. The Sheesh Mahal was the praying hall of the royal family. The concave and convex mirrors make this hall one of the exquisite tourist attractions in the whole of Punjab. Along with the mirror works, the wall paintings made of cloth also attract a lot of attention. These local paintings imparts the first floor with a unique look.

This hall of mirrors is influenced by the Rajasthani style of architecture. Hence, the tourists can see beautiful arches and carvings throughout the upper floors of the fort. The upper parts of the fort consist of the royal residences and offices. Hence, these portions of the fort were given extra protection.

The Faridkot Fort is located 30 km south of Ferozepur. The fort is an impressive example of the amalgamation of exquisite intricate interiors, protected by remarkable military strategies. By witnessing a monument that has withstood the ravages of time, the tourists can make their trip to Punjab unforgettable and interesting. The Faridkot Fort is a great historic tourist attraction that is attracting the attention of tourists visiting Punjab.

Last Updated On: 2011/07/08