Kamru Fort

Kamru Fort is an ancient five-storey wooden tower located in Kamru Village near Sangla in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. Situated at an altitude of approximately 2,600 meters, it served as the original capital of the Bushahr dynasty and remains significant for royal coronations. The structure features traditional Kath Kuni architecture with intricate wood carvings and houses the Kamakshi Devi Temple. Visitors can explore the exterior and temple complex but are generally restricted from entering the main fort tower.

Visitors can expect a steep 20 to 30-minute uphill walk from the base where vehicles stop to reach the fort site. The experience includes viewing the historic five-storey wooden tower built in Kath Kuni style, exploring the Badrinath and Kamakshi Devi temples, and observing intricate wooden carvings and artistic doors. Entry to the main fort interior is typically restricted to priests only, but the surrounding courtyard and temple areas are accessible. Visitors must wear a traditional Kinnauri cap and waist belt as a mark of respect before entering the sacred precincts.

Kamru Fort was the ancient capital of the Bushahr dynasty which ruled the Kinnaur and Shimla regions for centuries. Although the capital shifted to Sarahan in the 19th century and later to Rampur, the fort remains ritually essential as every new titular king must visit it for his coronation (raj tilak). The structure is believed to be over 1,000 years old, with the Badrinath Temple within the complex dating back to the 15th century.

The fort is a sacred site housing the Kamakshi Devi Temple, whose idol is traditionally believed to have been brought from Guwahati. It serves as the venue for a major religious fair held once every three years, during which the deity's idol is taken in procession to Gangotri. Visitors are required to observe local customs by wearing traditional Kinnauri attire, reflecting the deep integration of the monument with living community traditions.