A sprawling fort that holds the secrets of at least three different cultural periods of Indian history, Raja Karna ka Qila is one of the most prominent tourist sites in the city. A favourite with history enthusiasts, it echoes with the tales and untold stories of the different times that have left their stamps on this place. Though it is in ruins, it gives a peak into the periods from 4th century BC to 3rd century AD. The site was first believed to have been surveyed by Alexander Cunningham and was later excavated by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in the 1920s.

The first period, between 4th century BC and 1st century BC, is represented by the Painted grey ware. These are made up of coarse fabric, beads of terracotta and semi-precious stones. There are other antiquities made up of terracotta and bone among other things. Two terracotta seals that are decorated with auspicious symbols like the swastika (sacred Hindu symbol), snake, nandipad and crescent are characteristic of this period.

Houses of mud and baked brick are from the second period between 1st century BC and 3rd century AD. Red polished ware is characteristic of this era. Stamped pottery, terracotta objects and clay sealings which chronicle legends in the contemporary Brahmi script from the early centuries of the Christian era are a treat for any history enthusiast.

The third period is represented through the layout of the whole complex, which seems to have been a part of a late medieval fortification hailing in 15th century AD. Archaeologists have found remains from this period on the northern fringes of the mound. These include houses and fortifications. Of particular interest is a small house constructed with lakhauri bricks and lime plaster.