Shergarh Fort Mansehra
Shergarh Fort in the foothills of the outer Himalayas region is situated at an altitude of 5120 feet, coordinates of 34° 27’ 30’’ N, 72° 59’ 34’’ E, and 36 km northwest of Mansehra, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Shergarh fort is one of the most beautiful forts among the old historical houses of Pakistan. Shergarh Fort is the best place for tourist.
Construction of Shergarh Fort
The fort was constructed under the supervision of Diwan Bhawani Das and a General of the Khalsa Army Hari Singh Nalwa during the Sikh Empire in 1819. The purpose was to stop the Durrani Empire from accessing the Kashmir territory. Beginning around 1830 Nawabs of Amb state were the caretakers of this fort cum royal palace. It is presently utilized as a private castle of Nawabs. Nawab of the regal Amb state belongs to the Tanoli tribe.
The strategic location of Shergarh Fort played a crucial role in the defense of the Sikh Empire’s northwestern frontier. Positioned near the banks of the Indus River, the fort served as a key military outpost, deterring invasions from the Durrani Empire and securing the route to Kashmir. Its robust construction, featuring high walls and watchtowers, reflected the military expertise of Hari Singh Nalwa, who was renowned for his formidable forts along the Afghan-Sikh border. The fort not only served as a defensive stronghold but also as a symbol of Sikh authority in the region.
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Historical
Shergarh Fort cum Nawab's Palace built in 1830 |
Over time, Shergarh Fort transitioned from a military garrison to a royal residence under the Nawabs of Amb. The Tanoli tribe, who governed the princely state of Amb, took over its maintenance and transformed it into a palatial dwelling. The Nawabs incorporated elements of local architecture and luxury, blending functionality with regal aesthetics. The fort’s interiors were adorned with intricate woodwork, spacious courtyards, and traditional embellishments, making it a fitting residence for the ruling family while preserving its historical essence.
Today, Shergarh Fort stands as a testament to the region’s rich historical and cultural legacy. Though it remains a private residence of the Nawab of Amb, its architectural grandeur and historical significance attract historians and tourists alike. Efforts to preserve the fort highlight its importance as a heritage site, bridging the eras of Sikh military dominance and the princely states of British India. The fort’s enduring presence serves as a reminder of the strategic and political dynamics that shaped the history of the Himalayan foothills.
Shergarh Fort is a magnum opus of Sikh Art and Raja Ranjit Singh craftsmanship, which mirrors commitment, high qualities, wonderful unpredictability, and professionalism. The walls are massively thick and made of brownstone, clay, and limestone. The outer walls are plastered with limestone and strengthened with a mixture of eggs and horsehairs. The interior is decored with great artwork like Sethi House Peshawar. The entrance of Shergarh Fort is adorned by two old days cannons which were built in Amb state during the first quarter of the nineteenth century.
Beauty of Shergarh Fort
The historical Shergarh Fort is surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a province known for its lush green cities. If you are a nature lover, exploring Pakistan’s top 10 green cities will give you an insight into the country’s natural beauty.
There were almost 300 employees in Shergarh Fort for multi
services and cultural role assignments. Three main categories of employees were
Dedhibaans, Virsadaars, and Naghaarchis and their roles were guarding,
hospitality, and kettledrum players respectively.
There is a room inside the fort full of important
documents including Amb state Correspondence, its military, finance, meetings,
important letters, and other records. Moreover, the correspondence with Quaid e
Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah is also available regarding the submission of the Amb state
under the state of Pakistan. All record was shifted from the Amb state
headquarters to the Shergarh fort in 1970 due to the hazard of the Tarbela Dam
water rise and drowning of the Amb state headquarters.
The principal renovation and interior decoration work of Shergarh
fort occurred in 1901 and 1935 consequently. As per the palace record, the
second renovation has been done by Rahim Bakhsh overseer Gujrati by the order
of the last Nawab Sir Farid Khan at the beginning of his reign in 1935. Sir
Farid Khan used the scenic Shergarh fort as a summer camp office of the
formerly Tanawal state or Amb state during his rule from 1935 to
1969.
In 1969 the princely Amb state has been merged with the state of Pakistan with the submission of the last chief of Amb state Sir Farid Khan. The income and legal framework of the Amb state converged with Pakistan. Notwithstanding, the family property held with Nawabs and different honors and titles was ended officially.
Conclusion
Although Tanawal valley is an exciting destination for travelers but each summer, tourists are rushing towards the northern areas of Mansehra but the northwest of Mansehra remains an unexplored and less visited region. In order to explore the heritage and architectural sites of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, history lovers, travelers and tourists must visit Shergarh fort or may be added to their must-visit places list.
Shergarh Fort in Mansehra stands as a testament to the region’s rich history, much like Ranikot Fort, also known as the Great Wall of Sindh, which is one of the largest fort structures in the world, showcasing Pakistan’s architectural marvels.
The Tanawal Valley, with its lush landscapes and historical treasures like Shergarh Fort, offers a unique alternative to Pakistan’s more crowded tourist destinations. While the northern areas of Mansehra draw large crowds each summer, the northwest remains a hidden gem, waiting to be discovered by those seeking tranquility and a deeper connection with history. By promoting lesser-known sites such as Shergarh Fort, tourism can be diversified, easing the burden on overvisited locations while providing economic opportunities for local communities. Heritage enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike will find the fort’s storied past and stunning architecture a rewarding experience, making it a worthy addition to any travel itinerary.
Shergarh Fort is not just a historical monument but a symbol of the region’s resilience and cultural richness, much like the famed Ranikot Fort in Sindh. Both structures stand as silent witnesses to the grandeur of Pakistan’s past, offering invaluable insights into the country’s diverse heritage. While Ranikot is celebrated as one of the world’s largest forts, Shergarh Fort holds its own significance as a strategic stronghold of the Sikh Empire and later a royal residence of the Nawabs of Amb. By exploring such sites, travelers can uncover the untold stories of Pakistan’s history, fostering a greater appreciation for the nation’s architectural and historical legacy. Efforts to preserve and promote these landmarks will ensure that future generations can continue to marvel at their grandeur.