Chitradurga Fort

Exploring the Majestic Chitradurga Fort during the monsoon season had been on my wish list for a long time. This year, the area received plenty of rain, and it was quite a treat to experience the cool weather in Chitradurga!

We were in Chitradurga to celebrate Diayan's first birthday, with all our friends planning to join us. We decided to gather a day early and visit the "Chitradurga da Kallina Kote" as a group.

Our plan was to reach Chitradurga by 10:00 AM, quickly freshen up, and start exploring the fort by 11:00 AM. However, our captain, Naveen Katte, had other ideas. By the time we finally picked him up, it was already 1:30 PM. He kept us waiting near the bus stop for over an hour and a half, repeatedly saying, "Just 5 more minutes, I'll be there." 😜

About Chitradurga Fort:

Nestled in the heart of Karnataka, Chitradurga Fort is a historic marvel that resembles to India’s rich cultural heritage. Known locally as "Kallina Kote", this massive fort is located in the Chitradurga district, around 200 kilometers from Bangalore.

A Glimpse into History:

The Chitradurga Fort has a long and storied past. Built between the 11th and 13th centuries, it was initially developed by the Chalukyas, Hoysalas and later expanded by the Nayakas of Chitradurga. The fort played a crucial role in defending the region against various invaders, including Hyder Ali and his son, Tipu Sultan.

The fort is an architectural wonder, spread over 1,500 acres with seven concentric walls, 18 ancient temples, 19 gateways, and a series of interconnected passages. Its unique design makes it almost impossible for invaders to breach. The rugged terrain, combined with the strategic placement of watchtowers, provided excellent defense.

Since we started late, we knew we wouldn’t be able to cover the entire fort (it takes at least a full day to explore this beautiful place). So, we tried to see as much as we could. The slippery rocks forced us to be careful with our steps, slowing us down.

We also met Jyoti Raj, an Indian free solo climber from Chitradurga. Known as "Kothi Raju," he’s famous for climbing Chitradurga Fort without any safety harnesses.

One of the most famous structures within the fort is the "Onake Obavva Kindi," a narrow passage where Obavva, the wife of a guard, single-handedly fought off enemy soldiers with a pestle. Her bravery is legendary and is celebrated to this day.

Chitradurga Fort is not just a historical site; it is also a place of natural beauty. The fort is surrounded by rocky hills, and the view from the top is breathtaking. The area is dotted with beautiful landscapes, and the fort itself is home to several ancient temples, each with intricate carvings and sculptures.

The trek up to the fort can be challenging (especially when it rains), but the panoramic views and the experience of exploring such an ancient site make it worth the effort.

Tips for Visitors

- Entry Fee : ₹25 for adults; still cameras are free, but there is a charge of ₹100 for videos.
- Wear comfortable shoes : The fort involves a lot of walking and climbing.
- Carry water and snacks : There are limited facilities inside the fort.
- Best time to visit : Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
- Guided tours : Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the fort's history and significance.

Chitradurga Fort is a must-visit destination, offering a unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. Whether you're a solo traveler, a family, or a group of friends, this ancient fortress has something to offer everyone.