The fort was originally established during the 16th century CE by the Bhoi dynasty, which rose to power after the decline of the Gajapatis. Khurda served as the capital of the Bhoi kings, who exercised authority over large parts of coastal Odisha. The most renowned ruler associated with Khurdha Garh is Maharaja Mukunda Deva, followed later by the Khurda kings who maintained strong links with the Jagannath Temple at Puri. Architecturally, Khurdha Garh was a massive fortified complex constructed primarily of laterite blocks and earthwork, typical of forts in eastern India. The fort was originally enclosed by high ramparts, wide moats, and fortified gateways. Although much of the structure has been destroyed or altered due to urban expansion and time, remnants of fort walls, bastions, and gateways are still traceable in and around Khurda town. Historically, Khurdha Garh played a crucial role during the Paika Rebellion of 1817, one of the earliest armed uprisings against British colonial authority in India. The Paikas, traditional militia of Odisha, rose in revolt under the leadership of Buxi Jagabandhu, with Khurda as the epicentre of resistance. The fort and its surroundings became sites of confrontation between the Paikas and British forces, marking Khurda Garh as a landmark in India’s freedom struggle.