Shahpur Fort, also known as the White Fort, is an ancient stone fortress located in the Palamu district of Jharkhand, situated on a hillock overlooking the Koil River opposite Medininagar town (Daltonganj). Built in 1784 by Raja Gopal Rai of the Chero dynasty, the fort stands as a prominent historical monument representing the architecture and power of the Chero kings. The fort once had a secret tunnel connecting it to the Palamu Forts in Betla. Though currently in a semi-ruined state, the massive stone masonry walls, defensive arches, and viewpoints offer beautiful vistas of the Koil riverbed and the town below, making it an offbeat spot for history buffs.
After the fall of the old Palamu Forts, Raja Gopal Rai built this fort in 1784 as a strategic defensive castle and residence. In 1857, during the First War of Independence, the fort played a key role when the local leaders (Nilambar and Pitambar) launched their rebellion against British troops from here.
Birsa Munda Airport, Ranchi (170 km).
Daltonganj Railway Station (3 km).
Drive across the Koil bridge from Medininagar town. Taxis and auto-rickshaws available.
| From | Distance | Approx. Time |
|---|---|---|
| Daltonganj | 3 km | 10 min |
| Betla National Park | 28 km | 45 min |
| Ranchi | 170 km | 4 hours |
Winter is the best time for comfortable walking and river views.