Chitradurga Fort, Chitradurga - Timings, History, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 3 km from Chitradurga Railway Station, Chitradurga Fort, or Chitaldoorg is hill fort situated in the Chitradurga District of Karnataka, India. It is one of the best heritage sites near Bangalore.

Chitradurga Fort, also known as Chitrakaladurg and Chittaldurg, lies in the midst of a valley formed by the Vedavati River. This extensive fortification spans 1500 acres across a series of seven granite hills known as the Chinmuladri range. The name Chitradurga is derived from two Kannada words: 'Chitra,' meaning picture, and 'Durga,' meaning fort. Locally, it is recognized as Kallina Kote, translating to the stone fort, which evokes the grandeur and historical significance of India's illustrious past. Additionally, it is known locally as 'Ukkina Kote,' meaning Steel Fort, and 'Yelusuttina Kote,' which translates to Seven Circles Fort.

Considered one of the most formidable hill forts in India, Chitradurga Fort was constructed in various phases between the 11th and 13th centuries by several dynastic rulers, including the Hoysalas, the Chalukyas, and subsequently the kings of the Vijayanagara Empire. The fort's expansion during the 15th to 18th centuries is primarily attributed to the Nayakas of Chitradurga, also known as the Palegar Nayakas. In 1779, Hyder Ali briefly seized control of the fort, which was later captured by British forces two decades later following their victory over his son, Tipu Sultan. Eventually, the fort became the property of the Mysore Government.

The fort's strategic positioning and architectural brilliance render it an intriguing destination for history enthusiasts. It features a series of seven concentric walls of fortification, complete with various passages, a citadel, a mosque, storage facilities for grains and oil, water reservoirs, and ancient temples. Originally, the fort was designed to include 19 gateways, 38 postern gates, 35 secret entrances, and 4 concealed entrances, although many of these have since disappeared. The doors were constructed from robust wooden beams reinforced with iron plates. The towering ramparts, carved from rock, harmonize with the rugged terrain and were designed so that each line of fortification provides a vantage point over those below.

There are a total of 18 temples located within the upper fort, alongside one prominent temple situated in the lower fort. Among these, the Hidimbeshwara temple stands out as the oldest and most intriguing. Within this temple, a huge bone is preserved, purported to be the tooth of the demon Hidambasura, along with a cylinder made of iron plates, identified as the bheri or kettle-drum of Bhima. The Eakanatheswari temple, constructed by Matti Thimmanna Nayaka in the 15th century, features a Deepa stambha (lamp pillar) and a Uyyale Khamba (swing arch) prominently displayed at its entrance. Additionally, a masjid was established during the reign of Hyder Ali.

Chitradurga fort is renowned for its advanced water harvesting system. This system comprises interconnected reservoirs that effectively collect and store rainwater, allowing overflow from one tank to flow into the tanks situated below. Such a well-designed mechanism ensured a consistent water supply for the fort. Once the tanks were filled, the excess water would flow into the moats surrounding the fortifications.

Another significant attraction within the fort is the Onake Obavvana Kindi, named in honor of the courageous woman Obavva. This site is linked to the notable siege of Chitradurga by Haidar Ali. Despite a prolonged siege, Hyder's forces struggled to breach the fort's defenses until they discovered a narrow crevice that provided access. Obavva, hiding in this tight space, witnessed the enemy attempting to infiltrate. Demonstrating extraordinary bravery, she seized an onake (a pestle) and eliminated each soldier that attempted to enter.

Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM

Entry: Rs. 25 for Indians, Rs. 300 for Foreigners & Rs. 200 for Guide