Narnala

Narnala is a historic hill fortress located in the Akola district of Maharashtra, India, situated in the Satpura Range at an elevation of 932 meters within the Melghat Tiger Reserve. The fort, originally built around the 10th century by the Gond Kings, was named after the Rajput ruler Narnal Singh. It spans about 362 acres and comprises three connected forts: Narnala, Zafarabad, and Teliagarh.

Over the centuries, Narnala has been ruled and fortified by several dynasties including the Yadava, Bahmani Sultanate, Mughals, and Marathas, reflecting a blend of Rajput, Persian, Muslim, and Hindu cultural influences. The fort was a significant military and administrative center in the medieval period and features numerous historical structures such as the Mahakali Temple, Rani Mahal, elephant stables, and multiple gates adorned with distinctive motifs.

Known for its strategic location and robust water management system with 19 tanks, Narnala today attracts history enthusiasts, trekkers, and wildlife lovers due to its integration with the surrounding forest and tiger reserve. The fort holds cultural significance, including legends of Muslim saint Hazrat Burhanuddin and historical ties to the Mughal and Maratha rulers. It is accessible from nearby cities like Akot and remains a testament to the rich heritage and diverse history of the Vidarbha region in Maharashtra.