Manimajra Fort

Chandigarh, India

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Manimajra Fort in Chandigarh is a historic fort over 360 years old, built by Gharib Dass Dhillon of the Dhillon clan as the capital of his newly created state consisting of 84 villages.

Originally known as Surajpur Fort, it was constructed from sandstone and Nanakshahi bricks and reflects a blend of Mughal and Rajasthani architectural styles, including intricately designed jharokhas (overhanging balconies), courtyards, and imposing gates.

The fort played a central role in the region's history, connecting major trade routes and serving as an administrative hub. Local stories mention a tunnel connecting the fort to the nearby Mansa Devi temple, and the fort encompasses four gates like Samadhi gate and Mori gate.

Over time, it became a busy market area serving hundreds of villages, and its royal association with the Dhillon family is remembered by locals. However, today the fort suffers from neglect, with overgrown vegetation and structural decay, though it remains an important cultural landmark reflecting centuries of local heritage.