Around six kilometers away from the Patiala city, on the Patiala-Chandigarh Highway, is a historical fort called Bahadurgarh Fort. Its construction was initiated in the year 1658 by an early Nawab settler named Nawab Saif Khan. Later, in 1837, this fort was renovated by Maharaja Karam Singh to give the fort its present look. It is spread across a sprawling area of 2,100 square kilometers and is enclosed by two-levels of rounded walls and a moat. The Gurudwara Sahib is also present within the premises of the fort which showcases the fine architecture practiced by the people of the earlier centuries. What’s interesting is that there is a mosque as well inside the fort which was built by Saif Khan during the fort’s construction. This fort is also a clear example of the secular thinking of the people of Punjab.
It Is Known For:-
1) The Gurudwara Sahib located within its precincts shows Sikh architecture at its best. This Gurudwara hold high religious value to the Sikhs in Punjab who make it a point to visit this place during the Baisakhi festival.
2) The Muslims come to this fort because of the religious sentiments attached to the Mosque created inside the fort by Nawab Saif Khan.
3) The majestic architecture of the splendid fort is also a work of wonderment. There are octagonal turrets around the walls, cemented courtyard, a sanctum for the holy Guru Granth Sahib, pinnacled lotus-shaped domes in rooms, and much more.
Best Time To Visit:-
The fort is flooded with the Sikh devotees during the festival of Baisakhi. The Gurudwara, as well as the fort, get beautifully decorated during this time and people can enjoy the pomp and festivity of the Baisakhi festival here.
Reaching There:-
Reaching the Bahadurgarh Fort is convenient as it is located just 6kms outside the Patiala city. All the major public transports like buses and autos take passengers here at affordable price. Private taxis or cabs can also be hired to reach here.
Nearest Railway Station:- Patiala Railway Station
Nearest Airport:- Chandigarh Airport