Why to visit Khalanga War Memorial
A well-known tourist destination in Dehradun, the Khalanga War Memorial continues to tell the heroic tale of the Gorkhas. When an enemy builds a monument in honour of their enemy, it becomes a significant honour. It is conceivably the first memorial ever built by an army in honour of its foe.
British soldiers were so moved by Gurkha (Nepalese) soldiers' six-week battles without food or water that they built the Kalinga (Khalanga) War Memorial to honour them. Gurkhas were defeated by British forces fighting with them in the then-Nepali kingdom of Nalapani.
What happened at Khalanga War Memorial?
The British were defeated in this conflict and returned to Dehradun. After a few days, they engaged in a second fight on October 31, 1814, which saw the defeat of the British.
After a month of the siege, the British were able to take control of the area by blocking the water supply. This water obstruction persisted for weeks. In November 1814, British forces besieged the fort and took control of the Kangra fort after the Nepali defenders slowly withered from thirst.
Entry Fee: No
Best Time: November to May
Entrance Time: 9 am to 5 pm