Samthar Fort

Once the seat of a powerful princely state, Samthar – 60 km north of Jhansi – is best known for its magnificent fort, a spectacular amalgamation of Bundelkhandi and French architecture.

The origins of the fortification here can be traced to the 16th century, when Samsher Khan, a Subedar or Governor of Mughal Emperor Babur (r. 1526 – 1530 CE), was stationed at nearby Erach (23 km away). He is said to have built a small fort or garhi and named it ‘Shamshergarh’, after himself. The fort was used as a small check-post of the Mughals and later became part of the Bundela kingdom of Datia.

Even today, Samthar Fort is surrounded by a moat. Behind it are three-tiered battlements and gun emplacements, and almost three concentric layers of walls. The residential section in the centre of the fort features elements of European architecture. In addition to the fort, Samthar boasts of several beautiful temples and a splendid baoli or stepwell that was recently restored.

Even today, the Samthar Fort retains its grandeur, a stunning reminder of a time when powerful warriors ruled the region.