Narnala Fort is also covered in our Akola guide, which is the main page for it: Narnala Fort in the Akola guide.
The short answer
Narnala Fort: what visitors should know first
Only for a dedicated fort day. It is a long drive from Chikhaldara and across a district boundary, so go if you love ruins and have time. Check access and conditions locally first.
History and context
The story behind Narnala Fort
Wikipedia says Gavli kings are said to have established the site around the 10th century, though local legend credits Raja Narnal Singh Swami. Many dynasties held it, including Yadavas, Gonds, Bahmanis, Imad Shahis, Mughals and Marathas. The British took it in 1803.
The complex has three forts: Jafarabad, Narnala and Teliagarh. The Mahakali Gate is dated by inscription to 1486. The Wikipedia article carries citation warnings, so treat the details cautiously.
Useful facts
Narnala Fort facts at a glance
- Location
- Akot taluka, Akola district
- Experience type
- Hill fortress complex
- Known for
- Three linked forts, gates and the Mahakali Gate
- Architect/Built
- Layered; Mahakali Gate dated 1486 by inscription
- Elevation
- About 932 m
Why it matters
Why Narnala Fort is worth your time
Narnala is a layered fort. Wikipedia credits Gavli kings with founding the site around the 10th century, followed by the Yadavas, Gonds, Bahmanis, Imad Shahis, Mughals and Marathas, until the British took it in 1803. Islamic rulers modified earlier Hindu construction, so the same walls carry traces of both.
For anyone interested in the Berar region's history, it is a more complete record than Gawilgarh, though far less visited. It also sits inside the same reserve, so a trip here ties together the area's forts and forests.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Mahakali Gate
The innermost gateway, in white sandstone, with a dated inscription.
- 02
Three forts
Jafarabad, Narnala and Teliagarh form one large complex.
- 03
The cannon
A very large cannon is among the objects photographed at the site.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Treat Narnala as a separate excursion rather than part of a Chikhaldara plateau day, since the fort sits in Akola district, about 18 km from Akot, and the road is long. Wikipedia describes three small forts linked together: Jafarabad to the east, Narnala in the centre and Teliagarh to the west.
Start at the main gate arches and walk to the Mahakali Gate, the innermost gateway of white sandstone, which an inscription ties to Fathullah Imad-ul-Mulk in 1486. Look for the Rani Mahal, the lake in the fort and the big cannon. The four main gates, including Delhi, Sirpur, Akot and Shahnoor, show how many hands held it.
Carry plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes. The fort lies within the reserve, so confirm access rules locally before setting out.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Confirm access and conditions locally before going
- Plan a long day; it is not a quick stop
- Carry water, a hat and sturdy shoes
- Do not combine it with plateau viewpoints the same day
- Check that the route is open after rain
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Akot taluka, Akola district, about 18 km from Akot
- Time needed
- Half day on site plus long travel
- Best time
- Cooler months, early morning
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- The fort is spread over rough terrain with long walks between structures, little shade and few facilities. Older travellers may prefer to see only the main gates.
- Tickets and access
- Entry arrangements were not verified; check with local forest and tourism offices, as the fort lies inside the Melghat reserve.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Narnala Fort
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The fort is spread over rough terrain with long walks between structures, little shade and few facilities. Older travellers may prefer to see only the main gates.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Is Narnala in Chikhaldara?
No. It is in Akola district; treat it as a separate excursion.
What is the Mahakali Gate?
The innermost gateway of the fort, in white sandstone, with an inscription dating it to 1486.
Is it easy for older visitors?
Not very. The terrain is rough with little shade; limit yourself to the main gates.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
