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Jhansi Fort– A Complete Traveler’s Guide

On the lands of Uttar Pradesh, lies a beautiful fortress which was once home to Queen of Jhansi herself. It is called Jhansi ka Kila of Jhansi Fort. It is one of the oldest forts in the history of India and is also a pride for India.

About Jhansi Fort

This fortress was constructed using elements from both Bundela and Maratha style architecture. It has granite walls that are around 20 feet thick. On the south end of the fortress, there is a wall that connects it with the city.

The serene beauty of the fort paired with the tranquil atmosphere is one of the reasons why it is so popular. Additionally, every year in the month of January and February, Jhansi Mahotsav is held where many local artists perform plays and music displaying their culture and history to the tourists.

Spread over 15 acres, the fort also features a memorial that depicts Rani Laxmi Bai on her horse. The fort stands on hilly areas and is constructed with the north Indian style of architecture. You will also see elements of Southern architecture and motifs inspired by the west.

One of the most important features of the fort is the rich historical importance it occupies in India’s struggle for Independence. Flanked by lush green gardens and a beautiful landscape, Jhansi Fort is popular all over the country for its historical significance.

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History of the Fort

Jhansi Fort- Exquisite architecture

As stated earlier, the structure of the Jhansi Fort is a mixture of elements taken from both Maratha and Bundela styles. This is because the fort was initially constructed by Bundela Rajput Chief in 1613. After that, the Mughal Army attacked Jhansi in 1728. The then ruler of Jhansi, Maharaja Chhatrasal got help from Peshwa Bajirao to defeat the Mughal Army. To show his gratitude towards the Peshwa, Maharaja Chhatrasal gave a part of Jhansi to him. Peshwa Bajirao constructed the rest of Jhansi and even extended the complexes. That is how the fortress came to be built with both styles.

After the death of Raghunath Rao (III) in 1838, the Britishers accepted Gangadhar Rao as the King of Jhansi. In 1842, Gangadhar Rao married Manikarnika Tambe who was named Rani Laxmi Bai when she came to the palace. Rani Laxmi Bai gave birth to a baby boy who died after four months. After that, Raja Gangadhar Rao decided to adopt a child and named him his heir, Damodar Rao.

However, this did not sit well with the British. Rani Laxmi Bai was asked to leave the palace along with Damodar Rao because he was adopted and the East India Company would not allow him to be the king. But Rani Laxmi Bai refused to leave her palace and gathered forces to fight the British from within the fort and oppose the British rule. Due to her heroic efforts, in 1861, the British returned Jhansi and the fort of Jhansi to Laxmi Bai.

Places to visit near Jhansi Fort

1. Government Museum, Jhansi

Located just 0.3 km from Jhansi fort lies the Government Museum which is a must-visit place for people who want to understand the rich history of Jhansi. It has a variety of beautiful galleries and memorials that tell the brave story of Rani Laxmi Bai.

2. Ganesh Mandir Temple

This temple is located at a distance of less than one kilometer from Jhansi fort. The temple is famous for its peculiar structure and majestic beauty. Do visit this place to enjoy the spiritual atmosphere and take blessings of Lord Ganesha.

3. Jahangir Mahal

Located in Orchha, Bhadbhada road in Jhansi, 13.7 km from Jhansi Fort, lies the famous Jahangir Mahal. The entrance of Jahangir Mahal is very artistic and traditional and the history of the Mahal is quite extraordinary. For history buffs and architecture enthusiasts, this is a must-visit destination.

4. St. Jude’s Shrine

St. Jude’s Shrine is a Roman Catholic Shrine situated at 1.7 km from Jhansi Fort. This shrine is devoted to St. Jude Thaddaeus. It is a part of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Jhansi.

5. Betwa River

Located in Orchha, at 14.1 km from Jhansi Fort, there flows a beautiful and silent river stream that will calm your mind and relax your soul. Celebrate a picnic in the serene environment, sit near the river body, and enjoy the sounds of nature all around.

4. Rai Parveen Mahal, Madhya Pradesh

Situated at 18.2 km from Jhansi fort, The Rai Parveen Mahal has a rich history and beautiful interiors. It is believed that Raja Indrajeet Singh built this palace for his famous courtesan, Parveen.

5. Maha Lakshmi Temple

This temple is known for its beautiful interiors as well as opulent exteriors. Situated at a 2.8 km from Jhansi Fort, it is a temple of the Goddess of wealth, Maha Lakshmi.

6. Rani Mahal

Rani Mahal is tucked away just 0.5 km from Jhansi fort. It is a museum and palace on the first and second floors, respectively. The museum has many memorials displayed in its galleries that are erected in the honor of Jhansi ki Rani.

Famous dishes of Jhansi

Everyone loves eating; especially when you’re out in a different country or state. Each region has its specific food and its specific taste. Let’s have a look at what you can eat in Jhansi and what are the famous foods of this region.

The very famous Bundelkhandi cuisine will be available almost everywhere in Jhansi. The delicious dishes use sparse oil and you can find an abundance of sprouts, dals, and eggplants in this cuisine. These are the most grown plants and crops in Jhansi. Many restaurants will also serve Indian and continental cuisines in Jhansi. The most famous Bundelkhandi Dishes are – Khopra pak which is a dessert made of coconuts, Bhutte ki kees which is a corn fried and grated recipe, Maheri which is cooked breakfast, etc.

Ras ki Kheer is the most famous dessert in Jhansi. It is made of rice and sugarcane juice along with some milk. It has a very creamy texture and is excellent in taste. There are a lot of other Indian, western and Asian dishes available in Jhansi.

After exploring the Jhansi Fort all day long, you can cure your hunger pangs at one of the restaurants in the vicinity.

Restaurants near Jhansi Fort

1. Barbeque Nation

Who doesn’t know about this renowned food joint? Barbeque Nation is located at a distance of 0.9 km from Jhansi fort. You can have a stomach full of delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes here.

2. Burger Point

0.9km away from Jhansi fort, Burger’s point is a very famous food joint in Jhansi. The Burgers here are amazing in taste and texture and come highly recommended.

3. Baker’s Factory

Located at a distance of 1.8 km from Jhansi fort, Baker’s Factory is apt for snacks or to have a light brunch. 

4. Food Xpress

Another joint located at a distance of 1.6 km from Jhansi Fort is Food Xpress. This is your go-to place if you are looking for a pocket-friendly option.

5. Hotel Shrinath’s Invitation Restaurant

This restaurant serves delicious Asian food that will leave you licking your fingers. It is located 1.7 km from Jhansi fort. It offers exquisite Indian and Asian cuisine along with good ambiance and warm hospitality

6. Opium

Opium is a very popular restaurant near Jhansi fort. It is located at a distance of 2.3km from Jhansi fort. It serves cuisines like Indian, Asian, Chinese along with other fast food options. You can have everything from samosa to a dumpling all in one place right here.

Indiana Restaurant, Orchha

Orchha is around 13 km away from Jhansi. The restaurant serves Indian, Italian, Chinese, Continental and Spanish cuisine at affordable prices.

How to Reach Jhansi Fort

Jhansi Fort is located 3 km from Jhansi Railway station. It is very well connected to all major Indian cities via regular trains. You can easily take a 3-wheeler auto-rickshaw from Jhansi Railway station to Jhansi Fort.

If you happen to come by airways, you can land at Gwalior which is the nearest airport from Jhansi. It is located at 103 km from Jhansi. Take a bus from Gwalior to Jhansi Museum. From the Jhansi museum, the fort is only 0.3 km away.

Conclusion

Visiting this beautiful fort will help you get a glimpse of the rich cultural heritage of the long-forgotten town of Jhansi. The bravery that Rani Laxmi Bai displayed when confronting the East India Company is inspiring. It is an important historical event that nudged the country to struggle against the atrocities of the British empire.

Moreover, taking a stroll through the lush landscape of the fort will help you achieve a state of bliss. Learn about the local culture, enjoy the scenic views, and taste the delicious Bundelkhand food. Make the most out of your vacation at this lovely city and reconnect with the rich history of this country.

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