The fort was originally named 'Dhameri' before being renamed 'Nurpur' in 1622 by Emperor Jahangir in honor of his wife, Empress Nur Jahan.
The Brij Raj Bihari Temple inside the fort contains a rare idol of Krishna that was reportedly recovered from the ruins of Chittorgarh after the Mughal siege.
The 1905 Kangra earthquake significantly reduced the fort to its current state of ruin.
The site features intricately carved stone slabs depicting human figures and geometric patterns that survived the earthquake.
The fortification historically controlled the trade routes moving between the plains of Punjab and the Himalayan foothills.
Nurpur Fort is a ruined 10th-century fortification located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, historically known as the capital of the Pathania clan. The site is primarily recognized for its association with the Brij Raj Bihari Temple, which houses a unique idol of Lord Krishna said to have been brought from Chittorgarh. Much of the original structure was destroyed by a massive earthquake in 1905, leaving behind ornate stone carvings and remnants of old fortification walls. The fort sits on a cliff overlooking the Jabbar Khud stream. It served as a strategic military outpost for the rulers of the Nurpur princely state before it was annexed by the British. Visitors can observe distinct Rajput architectural influences embedded within the remaining ruins.
The stone-carved entrance archway that provides a frame for the surrounding mountain landscape.
Wear sturdy walking shoes as the terrain around the ruins is uneven and rocky.
Bring a hat or sunscreen, as there is very little shaded cover within the fort grounds.
Carry water, as there are no vendor facilities within the immediate ruins.
Attempting to climb the unstable outer walls or unbarricaded stone ledges, as the structure is in a state of natural decay.
Maintain a respectful demeanor when visiting the Brij Raj Bihari Temple; remove footwear before entering the shrine area.
