Forts in Assam are a representation of the royal heritage and culture of this part of the country which witnessed the regime of several historical dynasties in the ancient and medieval era. Some of the palaces and forts of this Indian state are spectacular and are visited by innumerable tourists. The forts belonging to the period around 6th century to the 19th century are amongst the most renowned historical structures of Assam. The rulers of royal dynasties including those from pre-Ahom age, Ahom age, Koch Dynasty, Kahari Dynasty, Jantia Dynasty and Ahom Dynasty built these forts, employing features of Islamic architecture. Talatal Ghar, Rang Ghar and other forts are a few of the famous forts of Assam.
Garchuk Lachit Garh
Presently referred to as `Lachit Garh`, the Garchuk Lachit Garh is situated in the south-western portion of Guwahati, towards the western part of Ahomgaon. The fort was built during the reign of Lachit Borphukan and it was later fortified in order to safeguard it against the invasions of the Mughals. Two lakes are present near the fort are filled with water. Currently, the fort has been encroached upon illegally.
Garh Doul
Garh Doul is an interesting archaeological site near Tezpur area of Sonitpur District which has been declared a protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India or ASI. The fort was actually a structure erected by Banasura, for his daughter Usha, according to the Hindu mythology. Here, Usha had spent the initial years of her life and today the remains of this fort are yet to be uncovered completely. ASI wing of Assam is supervising the excavations conducted here.
Kareng Ghar
Kareng Ghar implies `royal palace` and is existent in Rangpur, at a distance of nearly 4 kms away from the current-day Sivasagar, in Upper Assam. This historical monument is one of the most renowned architecture in the entire state of Assam. This fort was composed of wood. However, with the passage of time majority of the fort was damaged.
Talatal Ghar
Along with the Kareng Ghar, Talatal Ghar is listed amongst the grandest architectural marvels in Assam. It is located in Rangpur, about 4 kms away from Sivasagar in Upper Assam. It was created as a military base and possesses two secret tunnels and also three floors below the ground which were utilized as exit pathways in the battled which took place in Ahom kingdom.
