Gurkha Fort Solan

Gurkha Fort Solan

The Gurkha Fort is located uphill in the Parwanoo region. The Gurkhas constructed it as an aid to fight the British. It is located in the town of Subathu, which is enclosed in the forests of scrubs, pines, and eucalyptus trees. The whole area comes under army cantonment now.

The Gurkhas made this fort in the 19th century, that’s why the fort holds 180-year old cannons that were used in battles. The region came under British rule after the Gurkhas were defeated in a war. Subathu is now a major army cantonment region having 14 Gurkha Indian army training centers.

Visitors can reach the place following a journey of about 16 kilometers from Parwanoo via road. Also, it is well connected to National Highway 22. The rustic fort stands tall in a remote corner of the town with dense forest cover surrounding it. Various other buildings from the British Era are also present in the town with the Gurkha fort being among the important ones. As per the terms of the Britain-India-Nepal Tripartite Agreement that followed after India’s independence in 1947, six Gorkha regiments became part of the Indian Army and had served ever since.

Highlights:

• The fort still houses the Gorkha war’s 180-year-old canons.
• There are beautiful ancient frescos on the walls of the Fort too.
• Subathu also houses a more than 200 years old “viceregal lodge”.

The town of Parwanoo serves as a regimental center for the Gurkha rifles. Several tales surround the Gurkha Fort. Believing one such story, the Gurkha Army Chief Amar Singh Thapa built the Gurkha Fort to fight against the British Army. Another story states that when the fort was under the custody of the King of Patiala, it was conquered by the Gurkhas. This fort is at an elevation of nearly 4500 feet above sea level. Tourists can enjoy trekking in the nearby villages with serene hilly backdrops or indulge in some nature photography.

The Fort stays open on all days of the week, including weekends and public holidays in the same timeframe. The best time to visit the fort is afternoon or evening.

Timings: 09:00 am – 06:00 pm