Bala Hissar Fort

Bala Hissar Fort, also known as Qila Bala Hisar, is a historic fortress located in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Its name, derived from Dari Persian, means “elevated fort,” reflecting its strategic position atop a high mound in the northwestern corner of the city. ​

Historical Significance

Ancient Origins

The earliest known reference to the site comes from the 7th-century Chinese Buddhist monk Xuanzang, who described a fortified royal residence in Peshawar.

Mughal Era

In 1526, Mughal Emperor Babur established a stronghold at the location after conquering Peshawar. His successor, Humayun, later reconstructed the fortifications during his efforts to reclaim his empire.

Durrani Empire

In 1747, Ahmad Shah Durrani, founder of the Durrani Empire, made Bala Hissar his royal residence after capturing Peshawar. His son, Timur Shah Durrani, used it as the empire’s winter capital. ​

Maratha Occupation

The fort was briefly occupied by the Maratha Empire in 1758 after their victory in the Battle of Peshawar, marking the easternmost expansion of their rule.

Sikh Conquest

In 1823, the Sikh Empire captured Peshawar and destroyed the existing fort structures. They rebuilt the fort, naming it Samīr Gaṛh, though this name did not endure. ​

British Reconstruction

Following the British annexation in 1849, the East India Company reconstructed the fort’s outer walls, replacing earlier mud structures with brick masonry.

Present-Day Status

Today, Bala Hissar Fort serves as the headquarters for Pakistan’s Frontier Corps. While it is a military installation, the fort has been opened to the public on weekends—Saturdays for families and Sundays for all visitors. Visitors are required to bring their CNICs, and international tourists must present their passports. The fort also houses a museum showcasing the history and artifacts of the Frontier Corps.

Fun Fact

It is connected to the Governor House, Peshawar, through a 1.25 km long secret tunnel.