Achalgarh is a fort situated about 11 kilometres (6.8 mi) north of Mount Abu, a hill station in Rajasthan, India. The fort was originally built by the Paramara dynasty rulers and later reconstructed, renovated and named as Achalgarh by Maharana Kumbha in 1452 CE, one of the 32 forts built during his reign.
The fort is in a dilapidated condition now. The first gate of the fort is known as Hanumanpol, which served as the entrance to the lower fort. It comprises two towers built of large blocks of grey granite. After some ascent, stands Champapol, the second gate of the fort, which served as the entrance to the inner fort.
There are some features of historical and religious importance in and around the fort. Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple is just outside the fort; the toe of Lord Shiva is worshipped there and a brass Nandi is also located there. Near the temple there are three stone buffaloes standing around a pond. There are Jain temples in the fort.
Religious significance also makes Achalgarh Fort important owing to the renowned Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple situated just outside the fort, along with the Jain temples which were built in 1513 CE within the fort premises. The main deity in Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple is Lord Shiva and the locals believe that there are footprints of the deity on the holy rock.
The Achaleshwar Temple is also well-known for containing a Nandi idol that is said to be made of 5 metals, namely, gold, silver, copper, brass and zinc and weighs more than 4 tons. The entire temple is made up of marble blocks, with ancient poems carved on them. Near the temple, there are three stone buffaloes standing around a pond.
Achalgarh Fort is an impressive fort also with some beautiful Jain temples enclosed within. Among these temples, the Kantinath Jain Temple is the best as it offers a great sight. These temples were built in 1513 CE. Within the fortress there also is the Dashavtaar Temple. This temple entrance is like a canopy with hundreds of sculptured statues, portraying various dance forms of the era. Both the temples of Achalgarh show the masterpieces and capabilities of the artisans of the bygone era.
There is also a beautiful Mandakini Lake amidst the rocky hills which is a popular tourist spot. Many images of the Rajput rulers and animals are found drawn on the rocks surrounding the lake.
Achalgarh Fort History
The Achalgarh Fort was renovated and fortified by Maharaja Kumbha to escape pillagers. The Achaleswar Mahadeva Temple is nearby where a toe of Lord Shiva is worshipped. You can find some Jain Temples inside the fort. The fort is in a run-down condition now. The first gate of the fort is known as Hanumanpol, which served as the entrance to the lower fort. It comprises two towers built of large blocks of grey granite. After some ascent, stands Champa pol, the second gate of the fort, which served as the entrance to the inner fort. The decayed Achalgarh fort is indeed a great architectural delight.There are some features of historical and religious importance in and around the fort.
