Palamu Fort

Palamu Fort in Latehar, Jharkhand, consists of two ruined forts—an old fort on the plains and a new fort on an adjoining hill—both near the Auranga River within the forested Betla National Park.

The old fort, built initially by the Raksel dynasty and later fortified by the Chero king Medini Rai in the mid-17th century, features a defensive structure with three gates, thick walls made of lime and surkhi mortar, a two-storied courtroom, three Hindu temples later partly converted to mosques, wells, and watchtowers. A secret tunnel and remnants of royal living quarters are also present.

The new fort, constructed by Medini Rai or possibly his son Pratap Rai, sits atop a hill with a grand Nagpuri Gate decorated in Mughal Jahangiri style, 17-foot-thick walls containing vaulted chambers, and large circular bastions used for storing ammunition. Although much of the original structure is now in ruins, these forts reflect a blend of local and Mughal architectural influences and a turbulent history involving battles with Mughals, Chero tribal rule, and eventual damage during the British colonial period.

The forts overlook the scenic Auranga River and remain an important historical site of Jharkhand’s heritage.