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Chitradurga Fort
Forts are the ultimate source of learning about the rulers and the specialities of their rules. And if a fort has seen many power changes, it holds even more with itself. One such Fort is the Chitradurga Fort. The Chitradurga Fort Karnataka is one of the largest forts in India. It is undoubtedly one of the most visited spots in Karnataka as well. You will find some intricate details and the finest structures in this Fort, giving you an excellent insight into the days long gone.
For a history buff, visiting this Fort can be a treasured memory. You will also learn so much about various periods, different rulers, and the intricate details of their reigns. The architecture and clever planning of this self-sufficient Fort deserve a lot of attention. So, if you are interested in learning about Chitradurga Fort in Kannada, then keep reading this article. I will mention everything you probably need to know about this Fort to plan a visit there.
Chitradurga Fort timings
10 am to 6 pm
Entry fee for Chitradurga Fort
The entrance fee for an e-ticket is Rs. 20, and there is a Rs. 25 cash payment for Indians, SAARC, and BIMSTEC tourists. For foreigners, the entry fee is Rs. 250 for e-ticket and Rs. 300 for cash payment. Children below 15 years of age are free.
How to reach Chitradurga Fort
This Fort is one of the popular weekend getaways from Bangalore. Chitradurga Fort from Bangalore is only 200 km away, and it takes around 3 hours to reach there. This could be a perfect day trip if you travel from Bangalore. Other towns in Karnataka, like Hubli, Devanagari, and Mysore, are also well connected to this location.
The best time to visit Chitradurga Fort
Weather-wise, the ideal time to visit the Fort is from October to February. Winter months are the most pleasant here, with temperatures around 12 degrees. You will be able to enjoy the area well with the comfortable weather. The summers can be warm here, especially during the daytime. However if you are still visiting during the summer season make sure you visit here during the first half of the day when the weather is bearable. So plan your visit accordingly.
About Chitradurga Fort
Chitradurga Fort is one of the most picturesque forts that you can find. Also called the Chitrakala Durg or Chittaldurg, the British called this Fort Chitaldoorg. Chitrakaldurga translates to picturesque Fort in Kannada. Two words of the Kannada language came together to form the word Chitradurga. Chitradurga Fort in Kannada breaks down to “Chitra”, which means picture and “Durga” means Fort. Also, it has another local name, Kallina Kote in Kannada, where “Kallina” means Stone and “Kote” means Fort. One of the many names of this Fort is also Ukkina Kote, where Ukkina means “Steel” and “Kote” means Fort. This term implies that this Fort is as strong as steel and is impregnable. The Fort is located on the banks of the Vedavati River. This Fort spreads across a massive area of 1500 acres on a cluster of granite hills.
As the land of chivalry and courage, this Fort is famous. At different stages, this Fort was constructed throughout the 8th century. Bangalore to Chitradurga Fort is about 200 km away and is a popular getaway from Bangalore. This place is a visitor’s favourite spot, mainly for the beautiful landscape and all-encompassing view. It can be one of the best places to stay away from the bustling city for some time. The splendid architecture, the breathtaking viewpoints, and the serene ambience make it a must-visit place near Bangalore.
At present, the Archaeological Survey of India manages this Fort. Guides are also available at the entrance of the Fort. You can easily hire them to explore the Fort, and they can explain its history and special features. The Fort is also not a disabled-friendly location. It requires climbing for any visitor to reach the top of the Fort.
Chitradurga Fort History
- Who built Chitradurga Fort?
The construction of Chitradurga Fort continued over many years, and the fortifications took place between the 11th and 13th centuries. Dynasties like the Chalukyas, Hoysalas, and Vijayanagar kingdoms took an active part in the fortification of this Fort. Later, during the 15th and 18th centuries, the Palegar Nayakas, or the Nayakas of Chitradurga, expanded this Fort to a massive extent. During the reign of Madakari Nayaka V from 1758 to 1779, the Fort changed its hands, and Hyder Ali took over this Fort.
The Fort witnessed massive transformation through many dynasties, rulers, and rules. Each of these rules contributed to making this structure even bigger and better. Later, after Hyder Ali, his son Tipu Sultan took over the Fort. But after twenty years, the British forces killed Tipu Sultan, and they took over this Fort. According to the British, this Fort is a strong foundation behind building a robust defence system in Mysore. The British had their command over this Fort. Also, the Fort was an essential part of the northern border of Mysore. Later, this Fort came under the control of the Mysore Government.
Architecture of Chitradurga Fort
The architecture of this Fort is one of the major attractions. However, the entrance to Chitradurga Fort makes it even more attractive. This is a massive fort and one of the most prominent forts in India. There are 38 posterior entrances of this Fort, along with 19 gateways. It also has 4 invisible passages and a total of 35 secret entrances. One of the primary purposes of this Fort was also to keep an eye on the activities and attacks of the enemies. For that, almost 2000 watchtowers are also present here.
This Fort is the ultimate example of intellectual engineering and the finest craftsmanship. The idea behind the formation was to retain the original rock formation of the mountain and seven hills. It also has the name Yelu Suttina Kote, which means Seven Circles Fort. There were seven walls of this Fort. These walls are sleek and have passages so the enemies cannot enter here with elephants. There are designated areas for the archers to attack the enemies from the Fort. Also, this Fort is one of the impregnable forts, and one of the reasons behind this was the lakes and water channels around this Fort. Because of this, the Fort was like an inaccessible region for the enemies.
Also, this Fort is really well equipped to deal with an extended siege. From reservoirs to pits and storage warehouses, everything in this Fort was present to ensure the proper supply of water, food, and military provisions. The authorities put a lot of effort into preserving these to sustain themselves inside the Fort for extended periods.
One of the unique features of this Fort is that it houses 18 stunning temples in the upper Fort and one in the lower Fort. One of the most notable temples here is the temple of Goddess Ekanatheswari, who was the presiding family deity of the Nayakas of Chitradurga. Goddess Ekanatheswari is the incarnation of Goddess Adi Parashakti. In a block of stones, the footprints of the Goddess are present. Other well-known temples here are Hidimbeshwara Temple, Phalguneshwara Temple, Sampige Siddeshwara Temple, Ekanathamma Temple etc.
On the lower Fort is a temple of the tutelary deity of the Nayaka Palegars. Their deity is Uthsavamba or Uchchangiamma. This temple is located amidst the natural rock formations of the hill.
Major Attractions inside the Chitradurga Fort
Thus, the Fort is like a treasure trove for history buffs. Its premises house many unique structures that deserve a lot of attention.
- Onake Obavvana Kindi/ Onake Obavva
Chitradurga Fort Onake Obavva is one of the major attractions here. Onake Obavva was a brave woman who lived during the Chitradurga kingdom. She was a brave fighter who fought back many soldiers and also killed them during the attack of Hyder Ali to save this Fort.
- Hidimbeshwar Temple
This is one of the oldest of the 18 temples in the Fort. It is one of the notable temples here related to a legend in the Mahabharata. Furthermore, this is one of the most important sites of pilgrimage for the devotees. Also, this is an aesthetically pleasing temple that showcases the Dravidian style of architecture. A massive kettle drum is present here, which, according to the people, is related to one of the Pandavas, Bhima.
- Davanagere
This tourist spot is located 61 km away from the Fort. It is primarily famous for the much revered Anjaneya Swamy Temple. This location is ideal for people who love nature. You can enjoy a beautiful view of the Western Ghats here.
- Ankali Mutt – Chandravalli Caves
Located in Chandanavalli Vana, Ankali Mutt is an important archaeological site. Also famous as Chandravalli Caves, this site is a mix of natural formations and planned architecture. These cave temples are named after a Belgaum saint, Ankalagi. It is a picturesque location with huge caves surrounded by boulders and rocky cliffs. One of the major attractions is a huge Shiva Lingam under a giant boulder.
- Vani Vilas Sagar Dam
The Vani Vilas Sagar Dam is popular for its advanced engineering and is located 32 km away from the Fort. You can enjoy a splendid view here amidst nature. It is also one of the oldest dams in Karnataka.
Other major attractions:
This area houses many other ancient temples, forts, forests, caves, etc. Some of the popular locations that you can visit our
- Gopal Krishna Temple
- Sampige Siddeshwara Temple
- Doddahotrangappa Hill
- Bheemasamudra Dam
- Ranganathaswamy Temple
- Dasaratha Rameshwara
This location is also famous for outdoor activities like jet skiing, kayaking, boat rides, canoeing, etc. If you are an adventure lover, you can opt for such activities.
Wrapping Up!
Now that you have all the information about the Chitradurga Fort Karnataka, you can plan a visit to this location. You can stay at the KSTDC hotel, which is located just near the Fort. You can also find some other hotel options here. This location is perfect for both a short getaway and a one-day plan. So plan your visit according to your preference and enjoy some time in the bustling city. Let me know if this article is helpful for you when planning a visit to the Chitradurga Fort.
