Kotla Fort, Dharamshala - Timings, History, Best Time to Visit
India | Himachal | Dharamshala
#9 of 20 Places to Visit in Dharamshala
Distance (From Dharamshala): 37 Kms
Trip Duration (Including Travel): 3-4 Hours
Transportation Options: Cab
Travel Tips: None
At a distance of 37 km from Dharamshala, 44 km from McLeod Ganj, and 54 km from Kangra, Kotla Fort is a historic fort situated at Kotla Town in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. Located on the Pathankot-Dharamshala road, it is one of the renowned places of heritage in Himachal, and among the must-visit places as part of Dharamshala tour packages.
Kotla Fort stands at an altitude of 650 m, overlooking the surrounding deep valleys. The fort was built by Raja Ram Chand of Guler in the 16th century. It was seized during the reign of Raja Suraj Mal and his brother Madho Singh was made the commander of the fort. The way to the fort is covered with thick forests of pine. It is one of the major Dharamshala tourist places.
The fort houses 15 corridors and was built on a huge rock, which follows the building style of Kangra Fort. A Bagulamukhi temple is located at the main entrance of the fort. There is also a small temple devoted to Lord Ganesh which features a round roof. The temple is adorned with wall paintings on the outer walls. There is a wall featuring three arches and niches which is popular.
The fort is now restored and maintained by the Archaeological department.
