The Govindgarh fort, according to local tradition, was built by Raja Dab, an ancestor of the mythical ruler Vena Pal during the early centuries of Christian era. The fort, standing on elevated ground is square on plan having thirty-two small and four large bastions, which are placed at the four corners, the largest standing to a height of 36.5 m. The only entrance to the fort is located at the northern end in the eastern face. The gateway, fitted with leaves carrying spikes, a three-storeyed structure showing Mughal features, is flanked on either side by two massive bastions having ribs. Over a bastion, to the right of the gateway, is another Mughal building known as Rani Mahal. It consists of a main hall with projecting balconies and attached side rooms, the roof being painted with floral designs. Situated on top of another bastion, to the left is Gurudwara dedicated to Guru Govind Singh built by Maharaja Karam Singh of Patiala. The Nishan Sahib of this Gurudwara was put up by the Patiala Regiment after their victorious return from World War II. The fort, originally of mud bricks, may have been built around sixth century A.D. as a defensive measure against the invading Hunas. Mahmud Ghaznavi captured this fort in the eleventh century A.D. After king Jaipal committed suicide, Razia, the first female Sultan of Delhi (A.D. 1236-40), was kept as a prisoner in this fort by Altunia. According to a tradition, Razia escaped by jumping from a balcony, in order to muster an army and fight back. During the Mughal period it was an important outpost enroute to Lahore.
In view of its historical importance, it was declared protected as a monument of national importance vide notification no. Act LXXI of 1951 dated 28.11.1951.