The short answer
Malaun Fort: what visitors should know first
Go only if you are a history enthusiast who can manage a steep stone path and do not mind ruins. It is grouped with Arki on the map but access is better planned from the Bilaspur side.
History and context
The story behind Malaun Fort
The Battle of Malaun was fought from 14 April to 15 May 1815. Gen Bhakti Thapa, about 74 years old, died in the fighting at Deothal Peak on 15 April. The British commander was Gen David Ochterlony. The surrender terms let the Gorkhali force leave with arms, colours and two guns.
The treaty of 15 May 1815 between Amar Singh Thapa and Ochterlony included an article that opened the way for Nepalis to join the British army.
Useful facts
Malaun Fort facts at a glance
- Location
- Solan and Bilaspur border hills, Himachal Pradesh
- Experience type
- Ruined hill fort and short trek
- Known for
- Amar Singh Thapa's last stand, 1815
- Architect/Built
- Gorkha period, early 19th century
- Time or schedule
- Daylight; no published hours
Why it matters
Why Malaun Fort is worth your time
Malaun is where the Gorkha advance into the western Himalaya was stopped. The Battle of Malaun in 1815 ended with the surrender of General Amar Singh Thapa, and the treaty that followed included an article opening the way for Nepalis to join the British army, the start of the Gurkha recruitment tradition.
For travellers interested in the Anglo-Gorkha War, it complements Arki, which Thapa used as his headquarters. The ruined state of the fort is part of its story and its appeal.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The battlefield ridge
The ramparts sit on a craggy ridge with long views over tiered hills.
- 02
Malaun Devi temple
A small shrine inside the fort faces west.
- 03
A flag still flies
A red triangular flag flies inside the fort.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Plan this as an expedition rather than a stop. Ask your driver for the current road to Malaun village. Many visitors approach from the Bilaspur side, via Swarghat and a link road, then walk the last steep stretch. Confirm the route from Arki.
On the ridge, the fort is a set of narrow, broken ramparts with a main entrance on the south side opening to a courtyard. Inside you may find a Malaun Devi temple facing west, a watch tower on the east and cliffs on the north. Explore with care: walls are crumbling and trees grow from the stonework.
Take water, snacks and a hat; there are no shops. Combine it with Arki Fort on the same day only if you start early, as the Gorkha story links the two places.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Confirm the road and trek with locals
- Wear sturdy shoes
- Carry water and snacks
- Start early
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Hills on the Solan and Bilaspur border; a drive and a short trek from the road
- Time needed
- Half a day including the drive
- Best time
- October to March; avoid the monsoon
- Walking level
- Demanding
- Senior comfort
- The fort is reached by a narrow, steep stone path, with uneven ground and no handrails or seating. It is not suitable for anyone with weak knees, balance problems or heart conditions.
- Tickets and access
- No ticket or fixed hours are published. The fort is in ruins and no agency is named as maintaining it, so expect no facilities. Carry water and check the route with locals before you go.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Malaun Fort
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Prices are live on the partner site.
Travelling with parents?
The fort is reached by a narrow, steep stone path, with uneven ground and no handrails or seating. It is not suitable for anyone with weak knees, balance problems or heart conditions.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Is Malaun Fort easy to reach?
No: it needs a drive and a steep stone path on foot.
What happened at Malaun?
The 1815 battle that ended the Gorkha advance into the western Himalaya.
Are there facilities?
No.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.