Bhatner Fort

Bhatner Fort is one of India's oldest forts, located in Hanumangarh, Rajasthan on the banks of the Ghaggar River. Built in 295 AD by King Bhupat of the Bhati Dynasty, this brick fortification has withstood numerous invasions over 1,700 years. The fort houses a museum with post-medieval arms and contains several ancient temples. It is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India.

Visitors can explore the ancient brick fortification featuring twelve bastions arranged in a parallelogram shape covering 52 bighas. The fort contains a museum displaying post-medieval arms and weapons, along with numerous temples including those dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Hanuman, Jain temples, and Karni Mata. The fort walls offer views of the surrounding area and the nearby Ghaggar River.

Built in 295 AD by King Bhupat, son of Rao Bhatti of the Bhati Dynasty, Bhatner Fort is believed to be approximately 1,700 years old. The fort witnessed numerous historical events including conquests by Mahmud of Ghazni around 1004 CE, Timur in 1398, and was finally captured by Raja Surat Singh of Bikaner in 1805. The fort is mentioned in Ain-e-Akbari by Emperor Akbar and served as a crucial stronghold against invasions from Central Asia. Painted Grey Ware (circa 1100-800 BCE) and Rang-Mahal Ware (1st-3rd century CE) have been discovered at the site.

The fort represents the rich Rajput heritage and the Bhati dynasty's legacy. The name Hanumangarh was given after Raja Surat Singh captured the fort on a Tuesday, considered auspicious to Lord Hanuman. The fort houses over 360 temples including 300 ancient Jain temples and 60 Hindu temples, reflecting the region's religious diversity.