Bahu Fort

Jammu, Jammu & Kashmir, India

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Bahu Fort in Jammu is an ancient fortress believed to have been originally built over 3,000 years ago by Raja Bahulochan, the brother of Jammu’s founder, Raja Jambu Lochan.

Positioned on a rocky plateau overlooking the Tawi River, the fort has thick sandstone walls connected by eight octagonal towers designed for defense and housing guards. The structure seen today was largely rebuilt and strengthened during the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly under Dogra rulers like Maharaja Gulab Singh and Maharaja Ranbir Singh.

Inside the fort is a temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali, locally known as Bawe Wali Mata. The fort complex includes terraced gardens, waterfalls, and a secret underground chamber that once served as a prison with a hidden escape route. Its impressive gates were designed wide enough to allow elephants, reflecting its military importance, while its architecture blends Rajput, Mughal, and Dogra influences.

Bahu Fort stands as both a historical monument and a symbol of Jammu’s cultural heritage, offering panoramic views of the city and the river valley.​