Fort Karera: A Gateway to Bundelkhand

Karera, the second-largest town in Madhya Pradesh’s Shivpuri district, holds a rich historical and cultural heritage. Formerly known as Kanher and Karhara, it boasts numerous archaeological and heritage sites, including forts, temples, and stepwells. Among its most prominent landmarks are Karera Fort and the revered Bagicha Sarkar Hanuman Temple, both standing as symbols of the town’s deep-rooted legacy.

According to historians, Karera Fort was constructed in 1350 by Punyapal Parmar, a ruler of the Parmar dynasty. It was later renovated and strengthened by Bundela king Veer Singh Deo. Numerous local legends suggest the influence of various invaders, including Sultan Khilji, Sikandar Lodi, and Emperor Akbar, marking Karera’s historical connection with the Mughal era and other ruling dynasties.

The fort is adorned with Rajput-style gates such as Ganj Darwaza, Goojar Darwaza, Jhansi Darwaza, and Chand Darwaza. Once a center of power, its palaces and establishments functioned as royal courtrooms, residences for the ruling family, military quarters, and administrative offices. Though now in ruins, remnants of Raja Mahal and Rani Mahal still stand as echoes of its grandeur. A well, pond, and stepwell further enrich the fort’s landscape.

Karera Fort houses several significant structures, including Kileshwar Mahadev Mandir, Triyambakeshwar Shiva Temple, and Hanuman Temple, alongside a mausoleum—Syed Salaar Khan’s grave—who served as the Kiledar of the fort in the 18th century during the Mughal era.

Historical accounts suggest that Rani Lakshmi Bai of Jhansi governed Karera Fort following the untimely passing of her husband, Gangadhar. To this day, the fort’s formidable walls remain intact, bearing testimony to its enduring strength and legacy.

Baghicha Dham Hanuman Temple, nestled in Karera, is a revered spiritual site where devotees place immense faith. Recognized as one of the town’s most sacred places, it is celebrated for being the tapobhoomi of Bangiri Maharaj.

Established in 1981, Karera’s bird sanctuary was once renowned for its thriving population of the Great Indian Bustard. Today, it serves as a vital refuge for avian biodiversity, welcoming both migratory and native bird species each year. The sanctuary hosts an impressive array of birds, including spoonbills, herons, Indian robins, teals, pintails, egrets, and black-bellied river terns, with approximately 250 species documented in the area. Adding to its ecological significance, the sanctuary is also home to rare wildlife such as the graceful blackbuck and the elusive Indian gazelle.

Other notable places to explore in Karera include the Mahuar River, Foota Taal, Chaturbhuj Temple, and Khedapati Mandir. Additionally, visitors can extend their journey to nearby attractions such as Surwaya ki Garhi, Chanderi and other significant sites in the region.

How to Reach.
Karera is located in the Shivpuri district of Madhya Pradesh, India. The best way to reach Karera is:

• By Road: Karera is situated along NH 27, commonly referred to as the East-West Corridor, ensuring convenient road access. It is easily reachable from nearby cities, including Jhansi (50 km), Shivpuri (51 km), Datia (55 km), and Gwalior (100 km). Travelers can opt for a private taxi or a local bus to reach the town with ease.
• By Train: The closest railway stations to Karera are Virangana Lakshmibai Jhansi Railway Station, located approximately 50 km away, and Shivpuri Railway Station, about 51 km away. Jhansi, situated 55 km from Karera, serves as the most convenient rail hub for travelers. The town enjoys excellent connectivity to major cities across India.
• By Air: The nearest airport is Gwalior Airport (about 100 km away). From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Karera.