Gujarat is a well known historical place in India. The forts and palaces of Gujarat represents the superb architectural skill of the bygone era. The major forts and palaces of Gujarat are Pavagadh Fort, Uparkot Fort, Kusum Vilas Palace, Nazar Bagh Palace, and Dabhoi Fort. A unique blend of Hindu, Islamic, and European architecture is observed in the constructions of Gujarat.
About Dabhoi Fort in Vadodara, Gujarat :
Dabhoi Fort was established in the 6th century AD by the King of Gujarat, Siddhraj Jaisinh. The fort was earlier known as Darbhavati and is on the south east of Vadodara 30 kms away. The fort gives us the greatest example of Hindu Military architecture. This fort takes us to the Rajput of 13th century. It is one of the amazing forts in India with four huge gateways. The work on the gate is carved beautifully and must have been a challenge for the workers. There is one gate in East known as Hira Bhagol gate, Vadodara gate is in the West, Champaner in the North and Nandod gate in the South. There are many Hindu and Jain temples based in the fort.
The temple of Shri Lodhan Parshvnath temple is one of the 6 temples, which are the major attraction. Dabhoi is also famous for Zarolawaga, as they used to protect Hindus during the time of riots and people who reside in Dabhoi are called Zarolawaga.
Many Jain Scholars lived there to enrich the Jain Granth Bhandar. It has also been providing Talented people like Dayaram, the great Gujarati Poet.
Heritage of Dabhoi Fort :
- Dabhoi Fort is based on the lines mentioned in the various Vastu scriptures and tomes of ancient India.
- In the past, many Jain scholars stayed here and enriched the Jain Granth Bhandar, a collection of ancient Jain manuscripts.
- Specialties of Dabhoi Fort:There are four gates in Dabhoi town, one in each cardinal direction.
- Hira Bhagol, the most beautifully carved gate named after the architect, Hiradhar, is in the east
- Vadodara Gate in the west
- Champaner Gate in the north
- Nandod Gate in the south
Other Interesting Place to Visit :
- Chanchod
- Ten Talav
- Karnali Town
- Sankheda – International Craft Center
- Jambu Goda Sanctuary
- Sardar Sarovar Dam
- Jami Mosque
- Dabhoi Railway Station
Transportation :
Railway : Vadodara station is nearer to this place and has number of trains available.
Road : There are many Buses available from all the states to Ahmedabad.
Local Transport : Local buses and auto rickshaws are available from Vadodara to reach Dabhoi Fort.
Location : Vadodara, Gujarat
Built By : King of Patan
Originally Known : Darbhavati
Best time to Visit : October to March