Vijaygarh Fort, also known as Chandrakanta Fort, is located in Sonbhadra district, Uttar Pradesh. It has historical significance dating back to the Mahabharata period and has been ruled by various dynasties including the Gupta and Gurjar Pratihar. The fort gained nationwide fame through Devkinandan Khatri's novel 'Chandrakanta' and its subsequent TV adaptation. The fort, now in ruins, is a testament to Ganga-Jamuni culture, showcasing a blend of Hindu and Muslim heritage with structures like temples and tombs. Despite its rich history and potential for tourism, the fort suffers from neglect and lack of facilities.
1. Vijaygarh Fort is located in Sonbhadra district of Uttar Pradesh.
2. The fort is situated in a village named Mohalla, 1 km from Sonbhadra (also known as Robertsganj) and 110 km from Banaras.
3. The fort is 400 feet high and surrounded by the Kaimur mountain range.
4. The history of the fort dates back to the Mahabharata period.
5. The fort was once conquered by Vijay Falli.
6. Chandragupta Maurya rested his army in this fort before attacking Magadha.
7. The fort was ruled by the Gupta dynasty, Gurjar Pratihar dynasty, and the Kashi king Chetsingh Kaviraj.
8. The fort was rebuilt by Jadaun Rajput king Vijaypal in the 17th century.
9. The fort came under the control of the Mughal dynasty and later the British.
10. The last ruler of Vijaygarh Fort was Raja Chet Singh of Banaras.
11. The fort has an ancient temple of Lord Ganesha and a tomb of Hazrat Meeran Sahib Baba.
12. The fort has two ponds, Meera Sagar and Ram Sagar, which are said to have water throughout the year.
13. The palace of Queen Chandrakanta, also known as Rang Mahal, is located in the fort.
14. The fort has a court where the king used to decide right and wrong.
15. The fort has a Baradari and a Singh Gate, which was the main gate of the fort.
16. The fort has a building with two rooms that may have been used as a stable or chambers.
17. Two passenger sheds are built in the premises of Vijaygarh Fort for people to stay.
18. The government is planning to make the fort a good tourist place.