Sunday 3 February 2013

Bahu Fort



LocationJammu city, J&K
Built inOriginally 3000 years back and later refurbished in 19th Century AD
Built by:Originally by Raja Bahulochan and later refurbished by Dogra rulers
Main AttractionKali temple
Current StatusGovt. of J&K
ArchitectureMughal Architecture
Nearest Metro StationNot available
This Bahu Fort is situated in the city of Jammu in the state of J&K of India. Raja Bahulochan built this fort originally at about three thousand years ago that was redecorated in 19th century by the kings of Dogra. This fort has the religious importance having a temple of famous Hindu goddess named Kali, who is being considered as the deity of the people of Jammu. The local people use to call this temple as "Bave Wali Mata temple".
History
According to the earlier prehistoric records this fort has the connection with the Bahu Lochan and the Raja Jambu Lochan, both were the sons of King Agnigarbha II who belonged to the Suryavanshi dynasty. The eldest son out of 18 sons of Agnigarbha, Bahu has been credited for the development of the city of Jammu as well as the fort. The prehistoric structure of this fort got modified to a equipped structure since many years ago. Autar Dev who was the grandson of the ruler Kapoor Dev rebuilt this fort in 1585 at the same location. For the period of many years this fort keeps on demolishing and reconstruction from time to time, but the final present structure was built by Maharaja Gulab Singh in 19th century. This fort was again renovated by Maharaja Ranbir Singh during the period of his rule. This temple was at first developed for tutelary deities. The Mahakali image present in this temple was being brought from Ayodhya.
Architecture
The structure of this fort is being elevated to the height of about 325 metres that is situated on the opposite side of the old Jammu City. The equipped structure of this fort has been built by the sandstones that have been developed from the mortar of bricks and the lime having thick walls. These thick walls are connected by the 8 octagonal towers. There is an enclosed space in these towers for house guards. The main gate of this fort has enough size so that elephants can enter in to that. For the purpose of taking bath by the pilgrims a water tank has been made that is situated on the left entry of the fort. The length and breadth of this tank is about 6.1×6.1 mtrs and the depth is about 15 feets. For the purpose to withstand by any attack of gun a pyramid shaped structure has been developed on the right edge of this fort that is the ammunition store of this fort. There is an underground compartment in this fort that was used for the purpose of Jail or prison. During the time of emergencies on can escape from a secret space for exit that is present in this compartment. First floor of this fort has been generously built with curves and festooned with flowery designs just like Baradari.
Various halls have been made on the side of this fort that was used by the Quiledars as their offices or as the assembly halls. But the maintenance of these halls remained poor. Royal stables of horses were also present in this fort. During the past few years many substantial reformations and embellishments have been done for the purpose of attracting the tourists such as development of Gardens just like Mughal style, Cable car, Development of lake for the purpose of boating by the visitors.
How to Reach
By Rail
The nearest railway station available is the Jammu Tawi railway station in Jammu city. Thisstation is connected to almost all the major cities of India. It also connects the southern railway station of Trivandrum.
By Air
The nearest airport is the Jammu airport that is very well in connection with the other major airport of India that also includes Delhi, Leh and Srinagar. Generally all the airlines services provide their services from here to all parts of India.
By Bus
The bus services from Jammu are also very well developed. It is connected by the neighboring cities like Amritsar, Ambala, Shimla, Manali, Ludhiana and Delhi.
Nearby Places to Visit
Mubarak Mandi Palace
The Mubarak Mandi Palace was the palace that was the royal residence of the famous Dogra rulers near about 150 years ago. This structure is a very stunning architecture that is being merged with elaborated, Rajasthani, Mugal and the European styles that lead to the attractionfor the tourists at this spot. Sheesh Mahal is the main point of attraction in this palace. There are many beautiful paintings that are present in the museum in the pink hall of this palace that shows the art of Dogras.
Many ceremonies as well as many official functions have been observed in the stunningly decorated halls and the galleries of this palace. The complex of this fort is being surrounded by the striking court and a wonderful garden. This palace also acted as the venue for many functions, programs and important proceedings that involved the common people and imperial audience. The Tawi river can be viewed from this palace as well as the old Jammu that is situated on hillock.
At present this Mubarak Mandi Palace has archaeological as well as traditional importance and envelopes many offices of Government and courts.
Peer Baba Dargah
This Dargah has been dedicated to the renowned figure named Peer Budhan Ali Shah and always remained crowed by the people who are the believers. It is a myth that the saint Ali Shah lived for the period of 500 years by consuming only milk as his diet.
The saint was a close friend of the tenth and the last guru of Sikhs, Guru Gobind Singh. Irrespective of caste and religion, believers throng this place on Thursdays to offer prayers and respect to the legendary saint.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
The climate of Jammu always remains pleasant through out the year, however it can be visited in the months from September to April.
  • The summer season remains hot and the temperature can ranges up to the level of 45°C. There are many items for sightseeing and one can go for the pilgrimage to Amarnath.
  • The winter season ranges from November - February and the atmosphere remains cold to an extent of deep freezing and the area also experiences snowfalls.
  • The monsoon season ranges from the months of June - August and experience adequate amount of rains.
  • The autumn season ranges from September - November and called as the flowering season. Jammu looks stunning in this season.
The climate of Jammu is basically the subtropical climate that experiences hot summers and chilled winter season accompanied by the snowfall. The visitors can also visit this city during certain festival times like Lohri that is also called as Makara Sankranti, Deepavali, Ramnavami.
Accomodation
Jehlum Resorts
Gandhi Nagar,
Rail Head Complex,
Opp. Bahu Plaza, Jammu - 180002
Hotel Asia Jammu Tawi
Jammu Tawi,
On National Highway,
Jammu - 180004
Hari Niwas Palace Hotel
Palace Road,
Jammu Tawi,
Jammu - 180001
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