Uparkot Fort, Ancient fort in Junagadh, India
Uparkot Fort is an ancient military stronghold in Junagadh with massive stone walls that are layered and defended by three successive gateways with round bastions. Within the compound are Buddhist caves, two stepwells, and a mosque with four minarets from different historical periods.
The fort was established during the Mauryan Empire as a military stronghold under Chandragupta Maurya. Over subsequent centuries, different rulers modified and expanded it, resulting in the layered architecture and mixed structures visible today.
The fort contains Buddhist caves and two stepwells called Adi-Kadi Vav and Navghan Kuvo that reflect how different communities worshipped in this space. You can still see how these structures served daily life and spiritual practice at the same time.
The fort is open daily from sunrise to sunset with separate fees for cameras and guided tours available in multiple languages. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as exploring the grounds involves walking across uneven surfaces and climbing stairs.
The fort walls contain ancient cannons, including a Turkish gun from the 16th century that was used in regional conflicts. These weapons tell the story of the various powers that sought to control this strategic location.
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