Human lives make for great stories. Some find their place in the vibrant pages of life—bright, shining lives that are impossible to miss, documented and preserved in the folds of human memory. Others are like hazy reflections, lingering in spoken words but difficult to capture in ink. Some stories, tragically, go to the grave before they ever see the light of day.

　　Yet, there are tales so determined to be heard that they rise from the ashes. The marvellous forts that were rescued by human hands share similar stories. Once forgotten, they now stand as famous heritage resorts, celebrated for their enduring glory and living legacy.

　　Alila Fort Bishangarh

　　Perched atop a granite hillock and surrounded by the majestic Aravallis, this 230-year-old warrior fort now stands as a magnificent heritage resort. Built by members of the Shahpura-Shekhawat clan in Rajasthan, the resort features a restaurant aptly named Amarsar in honour of the clan. Owned by Rao Rajendra Singh, a descendant of the clan, the fort has been meticulously restored, with its windows, entrance gates, and arches reflecting the original grandeur.

　　The fort is adorned with intricate jharokha-style windows, jaali work, and tarkashi—a traditional brass wire inlay design on wood. Adding to its charm, the resort boasts a unique spa carved into the granite rocks of the old dungeon, seamlessly blending history with modern luxury.

　　Khejarla Fort

　　The 400-year-old sandstone fort in the village of Khejarla, Rajasthan, was built around 1611 A.D. by the King of Jodhpur to honour Maharaja Gopal Das for his heroic deeds in a war against the Mughals. The fort derives its name from the khejri tree, which is believed to have shielded it from Mughal forces.

　　With its rugged exterior and grand interiors, the fort now houses a luxury resort featuring 69 exquisite rooms and suites that offer a deluxe experience. Leased by Bhandari Heritage Pvt. Ltd., the resort seamlessly blends modern amenities with historical charm. Each room has a unique layout, adding to its distinctive appeal. The fort’s exterior has been intentionally left minimally ornamented, preserving its rugged and authentic character.

　　Fort Jadhavgarh

　　This 18th-century fort, perched on a hillock, is nestled in the heart of Jhadav Wadi on the outskirts of Pune, Maharashtra. Built by Shri Pilaji Jadhavrao, a loyal soldier of the Shivaji lineage, the fort was meticulously restored in 2008 and transformed into a heritage resort. It retains the charm of its golden past, including secret passages, dungeons, and escape routes.

　　Steeped in Maratha tradition, guests are warmly welcomed by women dressed in nauvari sarees. The rooms, called kholis, further reflect the rich cultural heritage. Spread over 25 acres, the fort offers breathtaking views of the Jadhavwadi Valley and the Sahyadri range. Guests can also indulge in a night of royal luxury in the fort’s majestic suites, such as the Maharaja Suite, or stay in regal tents. For those seeking adventure, the resort features activities like rifle shooting and archery, adding a touch of excitement to its royal experience.

　　Fort Tiracol

　　This 17th-century fortress, which played a significant role in the Portuguese Civil War, is located near the village of Tiracol at the northernmost tip of Goa. Nearly destroyed during the war in 1825, the fort originally featured 12 guns, a barrack, and a chapel.

　　Today, it has been transformed into a magnificent resort perched on a cliff, offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea, the Tiracol River, and a 17th-century church nestled at its heart. The fort boasts seven newly renovated rooms, each thoughtfully designed with Portuguese interiors and named after the seven days of the week. Guests can savour a delightful array of cuisines, including Portuguese, Italian, French, and Goan delicacies, making it a unique blend of history and luxury.

　　Dadhikar Fort

　　This thousand-year-old fort, nestled in the dense forests of the Aravalli hills, once served as a royal residential camp. King Chand established the fort in Dadhikar village, Alwar, after abandoning his capital, Abhaneri, following its destruction in a devastating flood.

　　Today, the fort stands as a heritage resort and a haven for nature enthusiasts. Perched 100 feet above the ground, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Aravallis. The resort features 71 luxurious suites and is located near Sariska National Park. Guests are welcomed with traditional folk songs and dances, adding a cultural touch to their stay. Just 2 kilometres from the fort, visitors can marvel at primitive rock cave paintings, a rare glimpse into ancient artistry.

　　Tijara Fort

　　Neemrana Hotels has breathed new life into the ruins of this historic fort, transforming it into a magnificent resort. Located in Alwar, Rajasthan, and within close proximity to Delhi, it makes for a perfect weekend getaway from the national capital.

　　The fort, originally left unfinished in 1845, now boasts terrace gardens, a central pavilion, an auditorium, and a poolside. Its royal rooms exude grandeur, including the Rani Mahal, featuring wide arches on all sides; the Mardana Mahal, surrounded by spacious gardens; and the Tope Mahal, once a vantage point for firing cannons.

　　The fort's origins trace back to Rao Tej Pal Yadava, with its history intertwined with the Yadava and Meo communities. Today, it stands as a testament to heritage beautifully restored.

　　Mundota Palace

　　The foundation of this fort was laid in the early 14th century by a Rajput family. A palace was later added at its foothill by a great-grandson of Prithviraj Singh of Amer, which was expanded over successive generations. The Thakurs of Mundota were renowned for their exceptional bravery in many notable wars.

　　Today, the fort is owned by the 20th generation of the Mundota family, who undertook an extensive seven-year restoration project to transform it into a luxurious resort. The property now features five opulent suites, each equipped with a private jacuzzi. Guests are treated to a fresh menu crafted from vegetables and dairy products sourced from the fort's private farm.

　　Despite its modern luxuries, the fort retains its original structure, including its rugged, natural rocky façade, preserving the charm of its historic roots.

　　Six Senses Fort Barwara

　　Originally owned by a Rajasthani royal family, this 14th-century fort has been leased to the Six Senses group, who have transformed it into a stunning resort and wellness sanctuary. The fort faces the renowned Chauth ka Barwara Mandir and encompasses two palaces and two temples within its walls.

　　Adorned with Rajasthani-inspired interiors, the fort offers a breathtaking view of the Aravallis and the lake from its terrace. Among its 48 luxurious suites, two royal suites were famously chosen by the celebrity couple Katrina Kaif and Vicky Kaushal for their wedding stay at the fort.