Khandar Fort

Khandar Fort is an ancient hill fort located in Khandar Tehsil of Sawai Madhopur district, Rajasthan, situated on the boundary of Ranthambore National Park. Built by the Badgujar rulers and later controlled by the Sisodia Rajputs of Mewar, the Mughals, and the Jaipur Maharajas, the fort features seven temples and two large water tanks. Perched atop a steep hill, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and serves as a significant historical stronghold in the region.

Visitors can explore the ruins of an ancient hill fort perched on a vertical cliff with stunning views over the countryside. The fort complex contains seven temples including a Jain temple, Chaturbhuja Temple, and Gobind Devji Temple, along with two large water tanks named Ramkunda and Laxmankunda. The climb involves steep stone steps and uneven terrain, requiring moderate physical effort. Monkeys are commonly present throughout the fort area. Basic parking is available near the entrance, but there are limited tourist facilities within the fort complex itself.

Khandar Fort was built by the Kshatriya Badgujar rulers, with some sources attributing its construction to King Sapaldaksha around 944 CE during the Chauhan dynasty. The fort was long ruled by the Sisodia Rajputs of Mewar before being taken over by the Mughals for a short period. In the 18th century, it came under the control of the Maharajas of Jaipur. The fort served as a significant security post for Ranthambore during medieval India.

The fort houses seven active temples including Chamunda Devi Temple, Shiv Temple, Chaturbhuja Temple, Gobind Devji Temple, Jagatpalji Temple, and Jayanti Mata Temple, where traditional Hindu worship practices continue. An annual fair called Kila ka mela is held at the fort, and in September, local residents traditionally visit the fort temples together.