Solah Singhi Dhar: The Forgotten Fort in Una, Himachal Pradesh

Solah Singhi Shar is a mountain range in Una covered in thick forests. It is located at a height of around 3,896 feet and is famous for its beautiful views of the Gobin Sagar Lake. It houses Solasingi or Kutlehar Fort, which was used to guard borders and trade routes in the past.

The Solah Singhi Dhar Fort is a forgotten wonder located on the highest mountain range in Una. This historic fort was built centuries ago by the Katoch Kings. This place is a must-visit for anyone who loves exploring peaceful places with great history. You can hike through deep forests, explore old ruins, and enjoy amazing sunset views here. This hidden destination promises an unforgettable adventure and an escape from city life.

Where Is Solasingi Fort Located?

Similar to most historic forts across India, Solasingi Fort was built in a special location on a high mountain ridge. This fort on the top of Solah Singhi Dhar is located near Bangana and Amb regions in Una. The mountain ridge on which it is located runs through Talwara, Una, and Hamirpur. You can easily reach here, as it is just 2 km from Piplu. Firstly, you have to arrive at Dhaneta on the Hamripur-Una road, which is 4 km from Piplu. 

• District: Una, Himachal Pradesh
• Nearest Major Towns: Bangana (around 5 km away)
• Elevation: Around 3,000 to 3,896 feet
• Accessibility: Short drive from the Piplu Barsar Road, followed by a short hike. 

Solasingi Fort: Historical Significance and Evolution

Before you plan a trip to this forgotten wonder in the Dev Bhoomi Himachal, you should know about its history. Here is what you must know:

• Origins: It is believed that it was built around the 12th century by the Katoch kings of Kangra to mark their empire’s borders and protect their land from enemy kings. 

• Royal Offshoots: It is closely linked with Raja Purab Chand, who was the founder of Jaswan, and used this hill range as an important base to protect his land.

• The Sikh Era: This historic fort was later renovated by the legendary Sikh Emperor, Maharaja Ranjit Singh. After capturing the nearby kingdoms in the early 19th century, he repaired this fort and made it a strong army post. 

• British Crackdown: During the Second Anglo-Sikh War (1848), local rulers fought back against the British East India Company. To punish them, a British leader named John Lawrence led an attack that destroyed parts of this fort. Today, it is a historic wonder and famous for its amazing views of the Himalayan foothills. 

How To Reach Solah Singhi Dhar Fort

Those planning a visit here must know that there is no direct road to the fort. So, you have to trek through the rocky paths to reach here. It is close to the Amb (38 km) and Bangana (26 km) regions in Una. So, you need to arrive there first and then start your journey to this historic spot. 

• Trekking Route: As there is no direct road, you must trek through a rocky trail that passes through forested areas. A popular 4 km trekking route starts from Beri village, located on the Bangana-Hamirpur road. Another route starts from Jarola via Piplu and passes through dense forests. 

• Trek Difficulty: The trek is moderate to challenging, so you need a decent level of physical fitness to comfortably complete this climb. The route features a sharp 60 to 85-degree incline at various points. 

• Transit Hubs: Most visitors choose Bangana as the base for a day trip to this fort. The nearest major town is around 26 km from Una City. You can take flights to Amritsar Airport or take trains to Hoshiarpur Railway Station in Punjab and then complete the rest of the journey by road. 

• Safety Tip: It is always advised to visit and trek during the daytime. The trekking route to the fort passes through forest areas, and leopard sightings have been reported near the ruins. So, always travel with a group and don’t trek after dark. 

What Is the Best Time to Visit Solah Singhi Dhar?

Visitors are advised to plan a trip to Solah Singhi Dhar and its historic fort from March to June and September to December. During these months, the weather is clear and pleasant. So, you can comfortably explore the ruins and enjoy amazing sunset views over the valley.

• March to June (Spring): The weather begins to warm up and remains highly comfortable. So, you can comfortably enjoy the views of blooming flowers across the hills covered in thick forests.

• September to November (Post-Monsoon): This is the best time for clear and wonderful views of the hills. The air is cool after the rains and provides a great opportunity to capture lovely pictures of nature. 

• December to February (Winter): This is the most comfortable time for sightseeing. Daytime temperatures range from 5 to 22 degrees. The clear weather is perfect for trekking up the rocky paths of the ridge. 

• April to June (Summer): The region experiences hot, dry weather with temperatures regularly climbing between 30°C and 41°C. Climbing the rocky paths of the historical fort during these months can be challenging.

• July to September (Monsoon): It is generally recommended not to plan a visit during these months. The heavy rains make the forest trails slippery and very dangerous for hiking.

Exploring Solah Singhi Dhar

The main highlight of Solah Singhi Dhar is the historic Solasingi fort, which is mainly made of mud and stones. You can also spot the signs of recent renovation efforts. This fort has also served as a brutal high-security prison in the past.

• The Forts: Solah Singhi Dhar actually houses two forts built by Katoch kings between the 11th and 13th centuries. However, the larger fort is in very bad condition, and there is not much to explore.

• Key Structures: The larger fort is located on a steep cliff, and today it is mostly in ruins. The smaller fort is in better shape, and it has an old courtyard and a tall watchtower. 

• The Scenery: If you climb to Piplu, the highest spot on the ridge, you will get the chance to enjoy magical views of the surrounding area. This green hilly range is home to many wild animals, different types of birds, and various plants used in traditional medicines. 

Places to Explore Near Solasingi Fort

You can make your trip to Solah Singhi Dhar more special by adding the following places to your travel plan: 

Tips for Travelers Visiting Solah Singhi Dhar

Before visiting Solah Singhi Dhar, you must carefully plan your journey, as it is a remote destination surrounded by deep forests. No shops and modern facilities are available near the ruins, so you must bring your water, food, and other emergency supplies.

• Plan for Trekking: The ruins are situated on rocky hills, so you must wear comfortable sports or trekking shoes with good grip.

• Pack Light: Carry a backpack with only important items, including water bottles, dry snacks, basic first aid, and a power bank for your phone.

• Wear Layers: The weather changes quickly in the hills. So, carry a warm jacket, especially if you plan to stay until the evening to watch the famous sunset.

• Hire a Guide: It is advised to hire a local guide from the nearby village, so you can reach the fort without getting lost.

• Photography Gear: The viewpoints offer wonderful views of the Himalayas and the surrounding valleys. So, make sure your camera is fully charged to capture the beautiful scenery.

• Check Local Transit: Local buses and taxis can help you travel between nearby towns, but it is best to arrange your return transport with your taxi driver in advance. The fort area is located in an isolated area, and finding a taxi there is quite difficult. 

Discover the Charm of Solah Singhi Dhar

Solah Singhi Dhar is not just an old ruin; it is a peaceful destination where you can enjoy fresh mountain air with amazing views of the green valleys. This forgotten fort is a great spot for those who like to visit less-crowded places. It is true that the charm of the fort is fading, but the magic of the amazing sunset views and lake views makes the journey completely worth it. This hidden spot must be on your travel list if you want to enjoy a quiet day in nature away from city life. 

Also Read : Suraj Tal: Third Highest Lake in India