Siwana Fort

Siwana Fort, also known as Gadh Siwana, is a 10th-century hilltop fortress located in the Balotra district of Rajasthan. Built atop the rugged Aravalli ranges, it served as a strategic defense center and witnessed significant historical events including sieges by Alauddin Khalji and Akbar. The fort features ruined ramparts, ancient temples, and panoramic views of the surrounding Thar Desert landscape.

Visitors can explore the ruins of palaces, temples, and ramparts scattered across the hilltop fort. The site offers panoramic views of Siwana town and the Aravalli ranges. Visitors will encounter narrow lanes, intricately carved structures, and ancient water bodies within the fort complex. The terrain is rocky and uneven with steep stairs requiring moderate physical effort to navigate.

Built in the 10th century by Veer Narayan Parmar, son of Paramara king Bhoja. The fort witnessed the 1308 siege by Alauddin Khalji where ruler Sitala Deva defended valiantly, leading to the first recorded Jauhar at Siwana. It later came under Rathore rule and served as capital for Rao Chandrasen Rathore. Akbar captured the fort in 1576 after another Jauhar event before restoring it to Marwar rulers.

The fort symbolizes Rajput valor and is commemorated through the annual Kalyan Singh Ka Mela fair held in July-August. The site contains numerous ancient temples and shrines reflecting the region's religious heritage.