Asigarh Fort, Monument of National Importance in Hansi, India

Asigarh Fort stands on the eastern bank of Amti lake in Hansi, covering 30 acres. Its walls are 52 feet high and 37 feet thick, and a large gate added by George Thomas stands at the south end. The main gate carries carvings of birds, animals and Hindu deities.

King Anangpal Tomar built the fort in the 11th century as a defensive stronghold for the region. Later it became the control center for a large network of fortifications in the surrounding area.

The name Asigarh means "Fort of Swords", from asi (sword) and garh (fort), because the Tomar prince Drupad set up a sword-making workshop here and blades were exported as far as Arab lands. The main gate carries carvings of birds, animals and Hindu deities, and a temple to Shiva and Parvati inside is still worshipped.

The fort stands on the eastern bank of Amti lake in Hansi, about 135 km from Delhi on NH9, and is a centrally protected ASI monument. Its walls rise 52 feet high and 37 feet thick, with a large gate added at the south end by George Thomas. Much of the site is now a ruined mound, so expect uneven ground underfoot.

In medieval times the fort was a center for weapon and sword making, with products exported to Arab countries. This craft tradition made the place an important trading hub of the region.