Islampur Fort in Mahendragarh gets state-protected monument tag

The Haryana Government has officially declared the Islampur Fort in Mahendragarh district a state-protected monument. Located between the villages of Islampur and Saroli, this 17th-18th-century fort, though in a dilapidated state, is now set to receive much-needed attention and preservation efforts.

The fort features a single entrance, high boundary walls with bastions on each corner and stairs on every wall leading to the top. Inside, the remains of rooms can still be seen, though they have collapsed over the years due to lack of upkeep.

Villagers hope for restoration

Rambilas, the sarpanch of Islampur village, shared that the fort had rooms within its premises around three decades ago, but these gradually fell apart due to neglect. “Declaring the fort as a protected site has raised hopes among villagers for its repair and preservation. If restored, the fort has the potential to attract tourists,” he said.

Ashok, another villager, noted that the fort is located about 1 km away from the residential area of the village. “While the bastions give the fort a good appearance from the outside, its poor condition discourages visits. Repairing it could revive local interest and bring in visitors,” he added.

Historical and tourism potential

Deputy Commissioner Dr Vivek Bharti highlighted the fort’s historical significance, stating that it has been protected under the Haryana Ancient and Historical Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act. The fort spans an area of 8 kanal and 15 marla and it is owned by the state government.

The DC emphasised the tourism potential of Mahendragarh district, which boasts several historical sites, including Mahendragarh Fort, Madhogarh Fort, Jal Mahal and Chhatta Rai Balmukund Das. “The government is actively working on preserving and renovating historical monuments to promote tourism in the region,” he said.

With the fort’s new status as a protected site, efforts to restore and maintain it could transform it into a significant cultural and tourist attraction in the district.