Kamru Fort: A Himalayan Bastion of History and Faith

Explore Kamru Fort in Kinnaur's Sangla Valley: An ancient Himalayan capital with stunning views, rich history, and unique Kinnauri culture.

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Kamru Fort, perched high in Himachal Pradesh's Sangla Valley, is an ancient sentinel of the region's rich past. Once the capital of the Bushahr kingdom, this fort offers a glimpse into Kinnauri architecture and culture, complete with stunning views and a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist traditions.

A brief summary to Kamru Fort

C7P5+J6W, Kamru, Himachal Pradesh, 172106, IN

Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm

Local tips

Respect local customs by dressing modestly and covering your head before entering the Kamakshi Devi temple.
The best time to visit is from April to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant.
Be prepared for a short hike to reach the fort, and carry water and snacks.
Photography inside the temple may be restricted, so inquire before taking pictures.
Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Chitkul Village, Rakcham Village and Sangla Valley.

Getting There

Walking

From Sangla, Kamru Fort is approximately 2 km away. Start in Sangla and walk north. The path gradually ascends, passing through the village of Kamru. You'll pass traditional Kinnauri houses and apple orchards. The walk to the fort takes around 30-45 minutes. There is no entry fee for the fort, but a small donation for maintenance is welcome.

Discover more about Kamru Fort

Kamru Fort, located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, stands as a testament to the region's rich history and architectural heritage. Situated approximately 2 kilometers from Sangla at an altitude of 2,600 meters, this ancient fort was once the capital of the Bushahr kingdom. The fort is believed to be around 800 years old and is an exemplary specimen of Himalayan architecture. The fort is a multi-story tower constructed from wood and stone, showcasing intricate carvings and a unique blend of Tibetan and indigenous Himalayan architectural styles. The main entrance is adorned with an image of Lord Buddha, and visitors are required to wear a Kinnauri cap and a woolen thread around the waist as a sign of respect before entering the Kamakshi Devi temple. This temple houses a beautiful idol of the goddess Kamakshi, believed to have been brought from Guwahati. The fort complex also includes the 15th-century Badrinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, where a fair is held every three years. The fort not only provides a glimpse into the region's past but also offers panoramic views of the Sangla Valley, snow-capped mountains, lush green fields, and apple orchards. The fort is a symbol of the region's strategic importance and cultural synthesis. While the main fort is generally only open to local people, visitors can explore the complex and admire the traditional Kinnauri architecture, ancient artifacts, and stunning views. A museum is also being constructed on the fort premises to display the collection of artifacts, stone sculptures, weapons and ammunitions, and antiquities that belong to the erstwhile royal family.