Located in the lap of Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh is one such beautiful state which boasts a picturesque beauty along with serene landscapes and vibrant culture. But behind its verdant valleys and snow-toṣpped peaks, the state is strewed with vals of regal tradition. Throughout the difficult terrain of Himachal, settles a conglomeration of cultural monoliths that had once housed royalty within its cosy blanket of wild greenery and untamed beauty. Take a peek behind the curtain for a touch of life-lived glamour from ancient monarchies past, in these historical hidden gems. Among them, there are the hidden treasures of this royal necklace which is now more known among the public and was already a new object to many women that has been always attracting people.
1. Royal Fort And A ViewPoint : Naggar Castle
Located high up above the town of Naggar near Kullu, Naggar Castle is a wonderful mix of traditional Himachali architecture with some bits of European influence. This castle was built by Raja Sidh Singh in the 15th century and served as a place of living for the Kullu kingdom family over centuries.
The palace is a scuffy building fascinate with stones as well as wood and contributes an incredible sight of the Beas River, in addition to neighbouring valleys. Naggar Castle is a romantic reminder of what Naggar village must have been during its glory years, an example where the traditional Pahari (mountain) architecture has married well whoever came after them in colonial times. Today it is working as a heritage hotel under management of Himachal Pradesh Tourism, making it one of the five luxury hotels in Shimla due to which you can get a royal feeling and natural beauty.
The castle is also home to an art gallery which is devoted to Russian painter Nicholas Roerich, who lived in Naggar. Then the visitor can contemplate his works and discover how it’s still leaning to those lands.
2. The Miniature Structure of Splendour:Rampur Bushahr Palace
Rampur Bushahr Palace is also known as Padam Place where you can witness the royal grandeur. Built in the early 20th century by Raja Padam Singh of Rampur- which is also known as the former state capital of Bushahr, The palace rests embedded amid pristine nature. It is said to represent a rare fusion of Indian, colonial and European architectural styles.
The detailed wooden carvings, stained glass windows and looming spires of the palace provide a peek into royal lives led by Bushahr rulers. While the palace is still privately owned by members of the royal family, it can be viewed from outside (parts are opened to the public during various events).
Rampur in fact is a name of historical importance that came on the map due to being a major trading point along the old Hindustan-Tibet trade route making an excellent choice for cultural abundance around it.
3. Sujanpur Tira Fort: An Emblem of War Potential
Sujanpur Tira Fort is a magnificent place which always amazes me. It is situated in the Hamirpur district of this hidden treasure trove known as Himachal’s royal heritage. Constituents and Size of the Fort: This huge fort was constructed in starting close to age 18th along with Raja Sansar Chand regarding Kangra, served between fortresses by Queen site Songs predominant overlord on their area. Raja Sansar Chand, his major patron of arts, turned Sujanpur Tira as a cultural centre and drew artists across the northern region for poetry, music etc.
The fort has served as both a royal residence and a military stronghold. At present, it speaks volumes about the power of Kangra rulers in swords with huge ramparts,bastions and gateways adorned on all four sides. In the interiors, visitors can marvel at ancient temples such as the Narmadeshwar Temple and its intricate wall paintings by Kangra school of art.
Aside from the fact that the fort has provided an awesome view over the surrounding landscape, this place is a must for history buffs and naturalists alike.
4. The Chail Palace : Maharaja Summer Retreat
Chail Palace– Former summer retreat of the Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala lying less than an hour from Shimla One of India’s few retained palaces, this majestic heritage property is surrounded by 75 acres of untamed paradise and was built in the year 1891 when the Maharaja got banished from Shimla at that time.
Simplicity and grandeur is the style of architecture in this palace. Royal grandeur emanating from the elegant rooms, ornate furniture and spacious gardens. Today, it has been converted into a heritage hotel where you can experience royal life.
Other than its royal appeal, the idyllic town also boasts of having the world’s highest cricket ground that has been erected by Maharaja. Thick deodar trees standing all around the ground adds to Chail’s charm of being a royal and recreational place.
5. The Hidden Gem Kuthar Fort
Kuthar Fort, SolanOne of the forgotten royalty landmarks in Himachal Pradesh KUTCHER or THE FORT OF The Kuthar Fort is amongst the oldest forts in this region, its history dates back over 800 years. The Presidential Palace of the kuthar royal family and various dynasties have been growing up & down in centuries.
This fort is spread over a large area of the series of Palaces, Temples and year-round water springs and it covers most part of this lovely table land as well. The fort is built in typical traditional Himachali style of architecture and uses woodworks seamlessly with stone walls that merges well with the landscape.
Kuthar Fort (Well-known but overlooked is this gem), for all the history and architecture enthusiasts who wanna pay a visit to it. Situated in the picturesque Shivalik Ranges, it is an ideal day out destination from Shimla or Solan.
6. At Jubbal Palace, As Colonial Elegance Awaits You
The Jubbal Palace, situated in the town of Jubbal combines indigenous and colonial architectural styles. It was built in the early 20th century by Raja Bhagat Singh and served as principal residence of the Jubbal royal family.
Distinctive Tudor-style architecture is what sets Jubbal Palace apart: sloping roofs, gables and bay windows. Additionally, the palace contains intricately designed wooden carvings and furnished interiors along with a bountiful garden area surrounding your grand manor.
Though it is a private residence, some sections of the palace are being open to general visitors and give an insight into lives that were lived by Himachali royalty. The picturesque town of Jubbal, dotted with apple orchards around, adds to peace and beauty at this cultural hotspot.
7. Kangra Fort – The Grandeur of the Invincible Palaces
Kangra Fort: The history of this fort has been there for more than 3,500 years and is one amongst the biggest and oldest forts in India. Built at the confluence of Banganga and Manjhi rivers, it nestled in Kangra Valley which belonged to the notorious Katoch dynasty – one of India’s oldest living royal dynasties!
Thus, for centuries it has seen multiple invasions starting from the Mughals until the British but as they say that there is something about an OLD firm and ROHTASGARH FORT are still standing tall upto this date. Huge courtyards can be found inside, while ancient temples and stone walls are all carved in great detail. Tourists and history enthusiasts visit the fort as it provides a wonderful, panoramic view of the valley.
Kangra Fort though, not just a symbol of power but also boasts as a cultural legacy that has left an indelible mark in the history and development of Himachal Pradesh.
Conclusion
Really, you are going to get mesmerised by the royal heritage of Himachal Pradesh which is highly decorated with culture and architecture landscape. Fort, Palace and Castle Gems : Step back into history!: A tale of Riyasat in the bygone era where kings ruled as a king!!! In these landmarks, we can see the past come to life as if unfolding before us; tales of strength, power, craft and perseverance. Also Read: Himachal Pradesh and Its Royal Treasures Every History Buff Should Visit
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