Bhatner Fort, now popularly known as Hanumangarh Fort, is one of the oldest forts in India. It is located in the city of Hanumangarh in northern Rajasthan, on the banks of the ancient Ghaggar River.
The fort was built around 295 AD by King Bhupat, a ruler of the Bhati Rajput clan. The name ‘Bhatner’ means “fort of the Bhatis.” Over centuries, due to its strategic location on the old Delhi–Multan trade route, it was the target of many invasions and battles.
1004 AD: Captured by Mahmud of Ghazni
13th century: Strengthened by Sher Shah Suri
1391 AD: Conquered by Timur, who called it one of the strongest forts in India
Also came under control of Prithviraj Chauhan, Qutbuddin Aibak, Mughal emperor Akbar, and Rathore rulers
1805: Captured by Raja Surat Singh of Bikaner on a Tuesday (considered the day of Lord Hanuman). The fort and the city were renamed Hanumangarh in Hanuman’s honor.
Built using bricks in a parallelogram shape covering 52 bighas
Contains 12 bastions on each side—a total of around 52 bastions
Equipped with strong defensive walls, massive gates, and 52 kunds (water reservoirs)
Inside the fort are temples of Lord Hanuman and Shiva, a structure known as Jain Pasara, and Sher Khan’s tomb
Excavations reveal ancient Painted Grey Ware and Rang Mahal Ware
Shows signs of continuous human settlement since 1100 BCE
Declared a protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
Timings: Open daily from 6 AM to 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Best time to visit: Winter or monsoon season (to avoid extreme heat)
Over 1,700 years old – one of India’s most ancient forts
Rich in military, architectural, and cultural history
Offers a glimpse into the invasion routes and strategies of ancient India
Ideal for history enthusiasts, heritage tourists, and photographers
Bhatner Fort is not just a monument—it is a silent witness to centuries of power struggles, cultural evolution, and architectural brilliance in Rajasthan.
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