Palamu Forts comprise two extensive forts situated in the deep forest of Aurangabad, Bihar, located near Daltonganj town of Jharkhand. These forts have been named as `Purana Qila` and `Naya Qila`. Presently in ruins, these forts are associated with Vanvasi kings of the Chero dynasty. It was built by Raja Medini Ray and constitutes defences in three directions along with three main gates. The architecture of the forts is very Islamic in nature.

History of Palamu Forts
Raja Medini Ray ruled in this region for thirteen years, from 1662 to 1674. He is accredited as the most prominent king of the entire Chero line. He expanded his kingdom over South Gaya and major parts of Hazaribagh and Surguja. He defeated the Maharaja of Chhotanagpur by invading his capital city called Doisa, currently known as Navaratragarh, located 33 miles from Ranchi. Plundering the city he then constructed one of the Palamau Forts, which is the lower one, near modern Satberwa. It was later reconstructed by Daud Khan.

Architecture of Palamu Forts
Palamu Forts have impressive architecture in terms of protection from the enemies. The shape and structure of the walls have a thickness of about 5 feet. A number of holes on the walls of the forts facilitated the watching of the activities of enemies. Stone and concrete structured these walls. The architecture of the buildings in the fort was also designed to assure safety from the enemy attacks. These were constructed during the beginning of Mughal era. The old fort spans across a mile in circumference. There are courtyards upstairs. The gates of the fort were also very protective and had watch towers. Inside the fort, there is a mosque having three domes and a duplex for two storied houses. The walls of the fort have still been preserved in a good condition. Marks of canon balls and bullets at places can be spotted in the old fort.

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