800-year-old Rajbunga Fort to be renovated at a cost of Rs 8.91 crore

800-year-old Rajbunga Fort to be renovated at a cost of Rs 8.91 crore

B.D. Kasniyal

Pithoragarh, Oct 22

Rajbunga Fort, an approximately 800-year-old structure built by Som Chand, the founder of the Chand dynasty in Kumaon, will be renovated at a cost of Rs 8.91 crore to develop it into a major tourist attraction in Champawat district, District Magistrate Manish Kumar said.

“The oval-shaped fort, dating back to the 13th century, will be renovated to restore it to its original form. Modern facilities, including a museum, amphitheatre, art gallery and cafeteria, will also be developed to attract tourists from across the state and the country, particularly those interested in the history and architecture of ancient Kumaon,” Kumar said.

The Chand kings ruled Kumaon from the 10th century until 1790. Champawat remained their capital until 1562, when the capital was shifted to Almora.

“The renovation will not only help preserve the region’s neglected cultural heritage but also boost tourist arrivals in Champawat,” the District Magistrate said.