Rampur Fort

Rampur Fort is a historic fortified complex in the city of Rampur, Uttar Pradesh, serving as the former seat of the Nawabs of Rampur. Located in the heart of the city near the Raza Library, it was established in the late 18th century during the Rohilla period. The fort features massive walls, imposing gateways and Indo-Islamic and British-influenced architecture, reflecting the princely heritage of Rampur State and remaining a prominent landmark of the region.

Visitors can expect a large walled fort complex in central Rampur with imposing gateways, bastions and courtyards reflecting Indo-Islamic and colonial architectural influences. The outer walls and gates are viewable from public roads, while interior areas include former royal residences and administrative buildings, with the renowned Raza Library located within the fort precinct. Access to inner sections is restricted and may require permission, so most visitors experience the exterior architecture, gates and surrounding historic precinct.

Rampur Fort was established in the late 18th century by Nawab Faizullah Khan, the founder of Rampur State, after the Rohilla settlement in the region. It served as the administrative and residential centre of the Rampur princely state under Rohilla rule and later under British paramountcy until 1949. The fort complex was expanded by successive Nawabs and reflects a blend of Islamic and British colonial architectural styles developed over the 19th and early 20th centuries.

The fort is a symbol of Rampur's princely heritage and its tradition of patronage of art, literature and music. The fort precinct houses the Raza Library, renowned for its collection of manuscripts, miniature paintings and Islamic calligraphy, reflecting the cultural legacy of the Nawabs of Rampur.