Chandpur Garhi

Nauna, Uttarakhand, India

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Chandpur Garhi is an ancient hilltop fort located near Nauna in Uttarakhand, India, historically significant as the erstwhile capital of the Garhwal Kingdom during the rule of the Panwar (or Pawar) dynasty.

Founded around the 7th century CE by King Kanakpal, a powerful and visionary ruler, the fort served as a strategic military stronghold and administrative center overseeing the region. Positioned atop a hill, it offers commanding views of the surrounding valleys and was designed to defend against invasions and control trade routes.

The fort's architecture reflects skilled military engineering with thick stone walls, bastions, and watchtowers, alongside remnants of barracks, storehouses, and palace structures that reveal its dual role as a fortress and royal residence. Over centuries, Chandpur Garhi symbolized the power and resilience of the Garhwal rulers, witnessing numerous battles and political changes.

Excavations in recent years uncovered artifacts like coins and pottery, indicating continued occupation from ancient times through the medieval period. The site today stands partly in ruins but remains a cherished heritage location attracting tourists, archaeologists, and history enthusiasts interested in the legacy of the Garhwal Kingdom and its contributions to regional culture and defense.