Roha FortA ruined hill fort near Nakhatrana, remembered as Sumari Roha.

Perched on a hill near Nakhatrana, roughly 50 km from Bhuj, Roha Fort is one of Kutch's lesser-known yet historically rich ruins. Spread across nearly 16 acres and rising about 500 feet above the surrounding plains, the fort was raised from granite stone and lime mortar — materials that have weathered centuries of sun and monsoon to leave behind the evocative ruins seen today.

Local tradition gives Roha a second, more poetic name — Sumari Roha. According to the legend, 120 Soomra Rajput princesses sought refuge here with Abda, the Jagirdar of Abdasa, after he fell in battle against the forces of Alauddin Khalji. The princesses are said to have taken samadhi at this spot, and the place came to be known as "Sumari Roha" in their memory.

The settlement itself traces back to Sahebji, brother of Rao Khengarji I (1510–1585), who founded Roha village before dying in battle against Raysinhji Zala. His successor Jiyaji built two large water tanks here, and Jiyaji's son, Thakore Noganji, raised the fort that crowns the hill today. At its peak, Roha presided over a jagir of nearly 52 villages — and its peaceful, bird-filled hillside later drew the Kutchi poet Kalapi, who composed romantic verses here.