Himachal Pradesh is a peaceful state in India. It is often celebrated for its beautiful landscapes and spiritual heritage. Himachal has a less-explored yet very powerful history of warfare, valor, and resistance. Nestled in the mighty Himalayan region, this land has witnessed many fierce battles that not only shaped its own destiny but also that of North India. Himachal’s terrain has been a silent witness and an active participant in India’s military chronicles.
Major Documented Battles and Military Events in Himachal Pradesh
Famous Battles Fought in Himachal Pradesh: From the Battle of Banghani to the Gorkha Invasion – Who Ruled, Who Won, and How History Was Made
Battle/Conflict | Year(s) | Region/District | Key Participants | Who Won |
Battle of Banghani | 1688 | Paonta Sahib, Sirmaur District | Between Guru Gobind Singh Ji and Allied Hill Rajas | Guru Gobind Singh Ji |
Battle of Nadaun | 1691 | Nadaun, Kangra District | Bhim Chand,Guru Gobind Singh & Hill Rajas vs Mughals | Bhim Chand, Hill Rajas & Guru Gobind Singh |
Sieze of Kangra Fort / Nepal Sikh war | 1809 | Kangra Fort | Sikh Empire & Raja Sansar Chand vs Gorkkhas | Sikh Empire & Raja Sansar |
Anglo-Gorkha War | 1814-1816 | Sirmaur, Shimla, kullu | British East India Company vs Gurkhas | British East India Company |
Battle of Jaithak (Part of Anglo Gorkha War) | 1815 | Jaithak Fort, Sirmaur | British East India Company vs Kingdom of Nepal | Kingdom of Nepal |
Battle of Rehlu | 1794 | Rehlu (present day Rait village), Kangra District | Chamba Chief & Raja of Nurpur vs Sansar Chand and Chief of Guler | Sansar Chand and Chief of Guler |
Second Anglo-Sikh War | 1848-1840 | Mainly in Punjab | British East India Company vs Sikhs (supported by hill principalities like Kangra, Nurpur, Jaswan, and Datarpur) | British East India Company |
