Jhansi Fort

Jhansi Fort stands on a rocky hill called Bangira on Fort Road in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, India. It was built in 1613 by the Bundela ruler Orchha king Bir Singh Deo and is strongly associated with Rani Lakshmibai and the 1857 uprising against British rule. The fort is built of granite with thick walls, bastions and ten gates, and from the ramparts visitors get wide views over Jhansi city and the surrounding plain. Inside, the main attractions include the Shiva temple, the Ganesh temple, the Kadak Bijli cannon and the Bhawani Shankar cannon, as well as the garden-like courtyards and the spot from which Rani Lakshmibai is said to have leapt on horseback during the siege. A small museum run by the heritage authorities displays sculptures, weapons, coins and old photographs from the Bundelkhand region. The fort is open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, and a visit usually takes one and a half to two hours. A sound and light show may run in the evening, and visitors can check locally. Morning is the best time, as the stone heats up in the afternoon and shade is limited. Crowds are modest compared with the Mughal monuments of Agra, and the fort is quieter on weekdays. Entry costs more for foreign visitors than for Indian citizens. The fort is about three kilometres from Jhansi Junction, easily reached by auto. Walking involves a climb up ramps and steps to the upper levels. Visitors often combine the fort with the Rani Mahal and Orchha, a short distance away. Sturdy shoes, water and sun protection are useful, particularly in the hot season.