Jammu and Kashmir Sanctions ₹10 Crore to Revamp Historic Rattan Garh Fort in Bhaderwah
SRINAGAR, AUGUST 09, 2026 — In a major effort to protect regional heritage and elevate local tourism across the Chenab Valley, the administration of Jammu and Kashmir has greenlit a dedicated fund of ₹10 crore for the complete restoration of the iconic Rattan Garh Fort. Situated on a scenic hilltop overlooking the town of Bhaderwah in Doda district, the 18th-century structure is set to undergo extensive repairs and structural reinforcement to revive its pristine architectural grandeur while turning it into a prime tourist destination.
Constructed in 1733, Rattan Garh Fort—also known locally as Bhaderwah Fort—holds immense historical and cultural significance in Jammu’s hill regions.Built on a flat-topped hill surrounded by dense pine forests, the fort features a distinct dual-tier architecture comprising an upper section with two independent tower blocks and a lower fortified section anchored by four octagonal towers.Over the centuries, the fort served as a key strategic stronghold, changing hands among local rulers before being converted into a prison in 1919. During the freedom struggle, prominent leaders including Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah, Sant Singh Teg, and Pandit Kashyap Bandhu were incarcerated within its stone walls.
The newly sanctioned ₹10 crore conservation roadmap focuses on authentic masonry repairs, rampart stabilization, and sympathetic structural restoration using traditional techniques to preserve the original character of the monument. Beyond physical repairs, the project includes public amenities, pathway lighting, landscaped viewpoints, and informational exhibits designed to provide visitors with an engaging historical journey through Bhaderwah’s past.
This restoration initiative forms part of a larger policy push by Jammu and Kashmir to decentralize tourism and highlight neglected heritage assets across lesser-known mountain destinations.By integrating Rattan Garh Fort into the broader travel itinerary of Bhaderwah—often termed ‘Little Kashmir’ for its lush meadows and rivers—authorities aim to boost annual visitor numbers, encourage longer stays, and generate new economic and employment opportunities for local communities throughout the Chenab region.