One of the tourist attractions is Kans Qila in Mathura which is believed to be the fort of Kansa, the Maternal Uncle of Lord Krishna. Hence, it dates back to the period of the great epic Mahabharata in 7th century BCE. Kans Qila is situated near Krishna Ganga Ghat and Gau Ghat in Mathura. This fort (qila) was built in a large area which was fenced with a long wall. Over the centuries, the fort got ruined and in the 16th century, it was renovated by Raja Man Singh of Amber who was the general of Mughal Emperor Akbar. The architecture of the fort is the blend of Hindu and Muslim architecture. Later, an observatory was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh of Jaipur who was also a famous astrologer but it does not exist today. In olden times, Kans Qila was believed to be a saviour to protect the people of Mathura against the floods in Yamuna River as it is situated on the northern banks of the river.
The old hall of audience is a stunning and notable building and was divided into three aisles. The hall is situated outside the fort and is made of red stand-stone pillars. The fort was sold to the Government contractor before the mutiny who destroyed it for the materials it contained. After the mutiny, it was converted as a school and its beauty and architecture were all ruined by the rulers then by covering them with mud wall. Today, one can only see the dilapidated fort due to its improper maintenance. It is also called as Old Fort or Purana Qila of Mathura.
Timings and Fee of Kans Qila in Mathura
The fort is opened on all days from 8.00 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. (inclusive of public holidays).
Entry fee is charged and pets are not allowed inside the fort. The best season to visit is from October to March with the pleasant weather.
Since the fort is in ruinous condition, one cannot get to stay there so you can stay at any hotels in Mathura that will suit your budget and can visit this place by bus or auto rickshaws or tongas.
Near Kans Qila in Mathura one will also find other famous Ghats like Vasudev Ghat, Brahma Ghat, Vaikuntha Ghat and also the Asikund and Manikarnika Ghat. So don’t miss out on them when you visit Kans Qila.
