In Search of Adichunchungiri Peacock Sanctuary

                                                                                                                                              05 July 2009

As every Sunday gets more excited for us, this Sunday too, ended up being very special. Our pick for this weekend adventure was a Peacock Sanctuary very close to Bangalore. Though not much information was available either from the websites or blogs about the sanctuary itself, we went. ahead to explore this place. Both, I and my husband being nature lovers, were equally excited about sighting a beautiful peacock amidst lush green landscape during our visit. We decided to leave as early as possible since we knew early mornings and late  evenings were the best times to sight the pride of India! We packed our stuff and left around 6:30 am. We drove non-stop taking the NH48 and took a right towards the Adichunchungiri mutt arched entrance. Since we failed to get any kind of information from the web, we totally banked upon the locals for the route to the sanctuary. To our dismay, many of them, on inquiry replied to us in kannada, 'Navila' (a peacock?) 'Illi modhlu ithhu saar, ivaga enu illa, dhaama noo illa, naviloo illa'! (peacocks were seen here long time ago.Now there is nothing here, neither the sanctuary nor the peacocks). Another old man, who heard less, filled us with hope for a moment by saying 'idhe' (meaning it is there), until we realized he had actually misheard the ‘Navilu Dhaama’(peacock sanctuary) as ‘Ravi Dhaba ’!!!! It was kind of funny but it filled us with furt at that moment. A couple of auto drivers too replied  negatively.

Both of us felt disappointed and consoled each other saying it was okay. We still took chances and drove around in search oft it, inquiring people. One man pointed us towards a place that turned out to be a ‘Sasya Kashi’. The guard there made it clear to us about the non existence of any peacock sanctuary around. More disappointment encroached on us. And to be frank, I was really down on hearing such a thing. We went back to the Mutt, drove all around a few kms just to check if there were any sign boards leading to the sanctuary. But no luck. My husband suggested that since we’ve come this far, we should go visit the hill at least. With a heavy heart, I went along. The pain of not sighting a peacock still lingered. To our surprise, the mutt offered us more than we expected! After the dharshana of Lord Bhairaveswara, we followed the track to Gavi Siddeswara and Kathle Someshwara atop the hill. Since it was a religious place, we had to trek the hill bare foot. Initially there were huge granite steps to walk up the hill and then later on, it kind of got slippery as he steps were carved out of karikallu (black stone). We spotted a beautiful yellow crested Bulbul and three different lizards at the hill top. The only thing we were missing was our camera! Anyway, we decided to trek further towards ‘Kathle Someshwara’, supposedly a cave temple where Nandi god is worshipped. The little priest pointed us towards an exit which led to the 'sthamba' (pillar), our second destination. This was the most exciting of all. We experienced a bit of rock climbing and some hard trekking.

 On viewing the ground from hilltop, my husband spotted a route, that we thought could’ve been the one taken by jeeps for rounds in the sanctuary. We decided we would walk around that place and explore. Also, on asking  the little boy (who guided us), if he had spotted any peacocks around recently, he replied to us…‘irithve, bandegal kelagade malgirthave’(peacocks will be there, resting under rocks!). And he vaguely pointed out to the place from top. Our hopes became strong as this was the first positive response we heard. During our climb, we had asked another boy priest about he same and he answered, ‘now there are very few or no peacocks as there is quarrying work going around and the sound of the blasts keep the peacocks away from this place’. It was justified. But we kept our hopes alive. After we finished our trek, we drove towards the Kalyani and a pond filled with lotuses.

Water Tank

Pink Lotuses

     Now, we were hungry to death .We found a place just in front of the mutt and had Thatte Idli, some amazing Saagu (which my husband thought was not tasty!), chutney and bondas for lunch. A cup of hot coffee was perfect to end our afternoon meal.

With hope filled in us, we started the walk into a place just behind the mutt, which we thought could’ve been the non existent sanctuary! It was lush green everywhere, a perfect place for butterflies and birds! As soon as we started to walk, we met an old shepherd who told ‘navilgalu mosthaagive’(there are many peacocks here). We were happy now, since it filled in a lot of confidence of finding one! We explored the place, found lizards, insects and some colorful butterflies.

Lemon Pansy

Spiny Lizard

Crimson Rose

     We kept walking, until we heard the sound of an amazingly beautiful bird, the Peacock! Now, it was a sure thing that there was at least one peacock around! And all our efforts were put in, to sight one. We kept praying secretly that we get a glimpse of the peacock. We walked continuously until we were stopped by a granite slabbed compound, and thought it was best not to walk any further since it looked like the boundary wall of that place. We had read that the peacock sanctuary was less then 1 sq.km. of area. We rested for some time to look for any peacocks around, but in vain. Some people were shouting from the hill top which probably was a disturbance that kept the bird from coming out. We spotted more lizards and some beautiful green bee-eaters.

We walked a little further along the boundary, to a place full of rocks. A group of four birds of unknown identity just fluttered past my husband. For a moment, we thought it was a peacock but no! Keeping our hopes alive and telling each other we needed the luck factor too to sight a peacock, we started walking back towards the car. We heard the cries of a peacock, loud and clear, and tried tracing the peacock. Every now and then, we rested and kept silent. My husband walked keeping the handy cam on,  while I spotted an amazing swallow tailed butterfly that was waiting to be photographed! I was pretty happy to have photographed a butterfly so closely.

Peacock on Rock

It started to drizzle and looked like it would get heavier. My husband advised we reach back to the car as quickly as possible. We walked together talking about the peacock and gosh! What an amazing moment it was, for the both of us….we witnessed the presence of the most beautiful bird in the world, the Peacock! It was a mighty one. At that moment, we couldn’t believe what we’d seen. It looked like as if the peacock came out and showed off just for our sake!!! It was so colorful that one can hardly miss it amidst the background of rocks. We actually got to see a peacock. And a mere glimpse of it had filled our hearts with joy. It made our day and we secretly felt we were lucky. At least lucky enough! I would’ve waited there all evening to watch that beautiful bird. Since we had little time left, we had to hurry back. We climbed up to the place where we had sighted the bird, but found nothing, since the bird had escaped to another place. I could see something big fly away from us. We at least had the mercy of god and the peacock, that we could sight one. It was enough for the day. Just while we were getting down a small hill, we saw a peahen fly over us. We had almost reached the end of where we had started the walk and looking back, we witnessed another amazing moment.

Yes, it was another beautiful peacock. This time, far away and high above, it stood atop the hill as if to say good-bye to us and, revealed its beautiful feathers, showing off its colors and left a message of being happy to have seen us around and to come back again!!! We waited for sometime appreciating its beauty, while it flew to a tree close by. My husband could spot the peacock very distinctly though its bluish green color made it difficult for me to spot it amidst the greenery of the tree. It sat there waiting for us to leave.

  This is our first travel story written long before the inception of this blog . Entire credit of this post goes to my wife.
    

Forts of Karnataka - ಕರ್ನಾಟಕದ ಕೋಟೆಗಳು

"Forts are the Chief Protection of a Kingdom"

- Ramachandra Amatya (18th Century)

Forts are similar to our gated community and are built for to protect of the kingdom. The word 'Durga' (Fort in Kannada) originates from the Sanskrit word 'Durgam' meaning 'difficult to trespass', signifying the importance of a strategic site, a strong wall and a moat to make it an impregnable stronghold. The earliest reference to the fort can be found in Rigveda wherein a fortified city was referred to as a 'Pura'. According to Kautilya's Arthasthra, 'Fort' is the most significant aspect of any kingdom, the others being it's  King, Capital, Allies, Army, Ministry and the Treasury. Forts have always played a significant role in shaping the history of the world. The history of fort itself dates back to the 6th century BCE with the earliest references of fortified cities being Nineveh and Babylonia. Harappa, Mohenjodaro, Lothal, Sisupalgarh, Hastinapur, Indraprastha, Dwaraka, Kishkinda, Malhar and Rajim are some of the earliest forts built in India, some of whose links can be traced to the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. Sisupalgarh is the oldest standing/surviving fort in India which is situated close to the city of Bhubaneswar in Orissa.

Satavahanas built the earliest of forts in Karnataka between the period of 1st century BCE and 2nd century CE and their remnants have been found at Sannati, Aihole, Banavasi, Sagar (Gulbarga), Chandravalli (Chitradurga), etc. However, the first confirmed record of fort as per inscriptions is the fort at Badami built around 543 AD by Pulakeshi I. In India, the Deccan (Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and United Andhra Pradesh) undoubtedly dominates the other regions over the number of forts built.  About 3000 forts were built in this region of which majority of them still survive to narrate their story. At present, about 700 forts survive in Karnataka. This post includes the list of forts we have visited till today, some of which have already been described by us in our previous posts (to which link has been given).  Information with regards to the remaining forts will follow shortly in our subsequent posts.

Forts of Karnataka - ಕರ್ನಾಟಕದ ಕೋಟೆಗಳು

There are many classifications of forts one of the most important Based on the type and area where the fort is built. Forts can be classified into 6 groups which are as follows:

1. Bhudurga or Nagardurga - City Fort or Land Fort - Bengaluru, Srirangapatnam 

2. Giridurga or Parvatadurga - Hill Fort - Madhugiri, Chitradurga 

3. Jaladurga - Fort surrounded by a Natural Water Body - Jaladurga, Malkhed 

4. Dhanavandurga - Desert Fort - None in Karnataka

5. Mahidurga - Mud Fort - Gottam Gutta, Hangal 

6. Vanadurga - Forest Fort - Ballalarayanadurga, Kanoor Kote 

There are many great Kannada literary works which speak volumes about the construction of forts.
A few to name are as follows:-

1. 'Sivatatva Ratnakara' by Sri Basava Bhupala

2. 'Ananthnath Puran' by Sri Jana 

3. 'Kumararamacharite' by Sri Nanjunda 

4. 'Mohan Tarangini' by Sri Kanakadasaru 

5. 'Pampaskhetra Vaaranam' by Sri Chandrakavi 

6. 'Amulabasava Charite' by Sri Singi Rajan 

7. 'Manasollasa' by Sri Someshwara III 

8.' Dhadmanatha Purana' by Sri Bahubali Panditha 

9. 'Vijayambudi Charite' by Sri Shrutikreethi 

10. 'Chennabasava Purana' by Sri Virupaksha Panditha 

11. 'Prabhulingaleele' by Sri Chamarasa and many more.

Forts of Karnataka: 

1. Badami Fort - ಬಾದಾಮಿ ಕೋಟೆ
  District: Bagalkot

  Type: Giridurga

  No. of tiers: 2

  Dynasty ruled: Badami Chalukyas, Pallavas, Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Tippu Sultan

Badami Fort 

2. Aihole Fort- ಐಹೊಳೆ ಕೋಟೆ

   District: Bagalkot

   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:2

   Dynasty ruled: Badami Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas

Aihole Fort

 3. Nandidurga Fort- ನಂದಿದುರ್ಗ 

   District: Chikkaballapura 

   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled: Gangas, Cholas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Kempegowda, Hyder Ali, Wodeyars, Marathas, British

Nandidurga Fort

 4. Shivagange Fort - ಶಿವಗಂಗೆ ಕೋಟೆ

    District: Bangalore rural

    Type: Giridurga

    No. of tiers:7

    Dynasty ruled: Gangas, Cholas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Hyder Ali, Wodeyars, Nadaprabhus, Marathas, British

Shivagange Fort

 5. Chikkajala Fort - ಚಿಕ್ಕಜಾಲ ಕೋಟೆ

   District: Bangalore rural

   Type: Bhudurga

   No of tier: 1

   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Hyder Ali, Wodeyars, Nadaprabhus

Chikkajala Fort

 6. Devanahalli Fort - ದೇವನನಹಳ್ಳಿ ಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Bangalore rural

   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Gangas, Cholas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Hyder Ali, Wodeyars, Nadaprabhus

Devanahalli Fort

 7. Bhairavadurga Fort - ಭೈರವದುರ್ಗ

   District: Bangalore rural

   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:5

   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Kempegowda, Hyder Ali, Wodeyars, Marathas

Bhairavadurga Fort

 8. Kundana Fort - ಕುಂದನ  ಕೋಟೆ

   District: Bangalore rural

   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:4

   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Kempegowda, Hyder Ali, Wodeyars

Kundana Fort

 9. Bengaluru Fort - ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು ಕೋಟೆ

   District: Bangalore Urban
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Kempegowda, Hyder Ali, Wodeyars, Marathas, British

Gajalakshmi, Bengaluru Fort

 10. Begur Fort  - ಬೇಗೂರು ಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Bangalore Urban
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers: 2

   Dynasty ruled: Ganga, Nolambas, Cholas, Hoysalas, Wodeyars, Marathas

Shree Panchalingeshwara Temple, Begur Fort

 11. Bettadasanapura Fort-ಬೆಟ್ಟದಾಸನಪುರ ಕೋಟೆ

   District: Bangalore Urban
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:2

   Dynasty ruled: Ganga, Nolambas, Cholas, Hoysalas, Wodeyars

Bettadasanapura Fort

12. Champakadhama  Fort - ಚಂಪಕಧಾಮ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Bangalore Rural
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Ganga, Nolambas, Cholas, Hoysalas, Wodeyars

Champakadhama  Fort

13. Belagavi Fort - ಬೆಳಗಾವಿ ಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Belagavi
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:2

   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Kadambas, Marathas, British

Belagavi Fort

14. Torgal Fort - ಟೋರ್ಗಲ್ ಕೋಟೆ

   District: Belagavi
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:4

   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Kadambas, Marathas, British

Torgal Fort

15. Hooli Fort - ಹೂಲಿ ಕೋಟೆ

   District: Belagavi
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:4

   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Kadambas, Marathas, British

Shree Panchalingeshwara Temple, Hooli Fort

16. Ramdurga Fort - ರಾಮದುರ್ಗ
   District: Belagavi
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:2

   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Kadambas, Marathas, British

Ramdurga Fort

17. Sankeshwara Fort - ಸಂಕೇಶ್ವರ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Belagavi
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:2

   Dynasty ruled:Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Kadambas, Marathas, British

Sankeshwara Fort

 18. Mudkavi Fort - ಮುದ್ಕವಿ ಕೋಟೆ

   District: Belagavi
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:2

   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Kadambas, Marathas, British

Mudkavi Fort

 19. Halasi Fort- ಹಲಸಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Belagavi
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Kadambas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas

Shree Bhuvaraha Swamy Temple, Halasi Fort

 20. Gokak Fort- ಗೋಕಾಕ್ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Belagavi
   Type:Bhudurga

   No. of tiers: 1

   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Kadambas, Marathas, British

Shree Mahalingeshwara Temple, Gokak Fort

21. Halakundhi Fort - ಹಲಕುಂಧಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Bellary
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Palegars

Halakundhi Fort

 22. Kenchanagudda Fort- ಕೆಂಚನಗುಡ್ಡ ಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Bellary
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas, Vijayanagar, Bahamanis, British

Kenchanagudda Fort

 23. Kurugod Fort - ಕುರುಗೋಡು ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Bellary
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:5

   Dynasty ruled: Satavahanas, Badami Chalukyas, Sindhs of Kurugodu, Vijayanagar, Hyder Ali

Kurugodu Fort

24. Nadivi Fort - ನಾಡಿವಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Bellary
   Type: Jaladurga

   No. of tiers:2

   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas, Vijayanagar, Palegars

Nadivi Fort

 25. Gudekote Fort - ಗುಡೇಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Bellary
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:5

  Dynasty ruled: Satavahanas, Kadambas, Badami Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas,  Palegars of Hosamaledurga, Vijayanagar, Bahamani, Palegars, Hyder Ali, British

Gudekote Fort

26. Ujjini Fort - ಉಜ್ಜಿನಿ ಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Bellary
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:2

   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas, Vijayanagar, Bahamanis, British

Ujjini Fort

 27. Bellary Fort - ಬಳ್ಳಾರಿ ಕೋಟೆ

   District: Bellary
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:7

  Dynasty ruled:  Maurya, Satavahanas, Badami Chalukyas, Sindhs of Kurugodu, Hoysalas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Vijayanagar, Bahamanis, Marathas, British

Bellary Fort

 28. Hampi Fort - ಹಂಪಿ ಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Bellary
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:7

  Dynasty ruled: Maurya, Satavahanas, Badami Chalukyas, Sindhs of Kurugodu, Hoysalas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Vijayanagar, Bahamanis, British

Hampi Fort

 29. Tekkalakote Fort - ಟೆಕ್ಕಲ್ಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Bellary
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Sindhs of Kurugodu, Hoysalas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Vijayanagar, Bahamanis, British

Tekalkotte Fort Entrance

30. Sandur Fort - ಸಂಡೂರ್ ಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Bellary
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:2

   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Bahamanis, Marathas, British, Gorpade

Sandur Gorge

 31. Hulikunte Fort - ಹುಲಿಕುಂಟೆ ಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Bellary
   Type: Giridurga + Vanadurga

   No. of tiers:5

   Dynasty ruled: Palegars

Hulikunte Fort

32. Hallikhed Fort - ಹಳ್ಳಿಖೇಡ ಕೋಟೆ  

   District: Bidar
   Type:  Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas, Bahamanis, British

Hallikhed Fort

33. Rameshwara Fort-ರಾಮೇಶ್ವರ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Bidar
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas, Bahamanis, British

Rameshwara Fort

 34. Bidar Fort - ಬೀದರ್ ಕೋಟೆ 

  District: Bidar
  Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:3

  Dynasty ruled: Maurya, Satavahanas, Badami Chalukyas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Kakatiyas, Vijayanagar, Bahamanis, Bijapur Sultanate,Nizams, British

Bidar Fort

 35. Basavakalyan Fort - ಬಸವಕಲ್ಯಾಣ ಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Bidar
   Type: Giridurga

    No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Bahamanis, Kakatiyas, Bijapura Sultanate, Vijayanagar, Marathas, Nizams, British

Basavakalyan Fort

 36. Bhatambra Fort - ಭಾತಂಬ್ರ ಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Bidar
   Type: Bhudurga

    No. of tiers:2

   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Bahamanis, Kakatiyas, Bijapura Sultanate, Vijayanagar, Marathas, Nizams, British

Bhatambra Fort

37. Bhalki Fort - ಭಳ್ಕಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Bidar
   Type: Bhudurga

    No. of tiers:2

   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Bahamanis, Kakatiyas, Bijapura Sultanate, Vijayanagar, Marathas, Nizams, British

Bhalki Fort

38. Bijapura Fort - ವಿಜಯಪುರ ಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Vijayapura
   Type: Bhudurga

    No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Bahamanis, Kakatiyas, Bijapura Sultanate, Vijayanagar, Marathas, Nizams, British

Malik-I-Maidan, Bijapura Fort

 39. Bandallidurga Fort- ಬಂಡಳ್ಳಿದುರ್ಗ

   District: Chamrajanagar
   Type: Giridurga +Vanadurga

   No. of tiers: 3

   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Palegars, Tippu Sultan, Wodeyars, British

Bandallidurga Fort

40. Gopalaswamy Betta Fort - ಗೋಪಾಲಸ್ವಾಮಿ ಬೆಟ್ಟ ಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Chamrajanagar
   Type: Giridurga +Vanadurga

   No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled:  Hoysalas, Vijayanagar

Gopalaswamy Betta Fort

41. Skandagiri Fort - ಸ್ಕಂದಗಿರಿ ಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Chikkaballapura
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled: Gangas, Cholas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Palegars, Tippu Sultan, Marathas, British

Skandagiri Fort

 42. Gummanayakanapalya Fort - ಗುಮ್ಮನಾಯಕನಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Chikkaballapura
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Tippu Sultan, Palegars

Gummanayakanapalya Fort

 43. Varlakonda Fort - ವರ್ಲಕೊಂಡ ಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Chikkaballapura
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:3

   Dynasty ruled: Palegars

Varlakonda Fort

 44. Gudibande Fort - ಗುಡಿಬಂಡೆ ಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Chikkaballapura
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled: Gangas, Cholas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Palegars, Aurangzeb, Tippu Sultan

Gudibande Fort

 45. Makalidurga Fort- ಮಾಕಳಿದುರ್ಗ 

   District: Chikkaballapura
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled: Nadaprabhus, Tippu Sultan, Wodeyars

Makalidurga Fort

 46. Channagiri Fort - ಚನ್ನಗಿರಿ ಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Chikkaballapura
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:3

   Dynasty ruled:Nadaprabhus, Tippu Sultan, Wodeyars

Channagiri Fort

 47. Ambajidurga Fort - ಅಂಬಾಜಿದುರ್ಗ

   District: Chikkaballapura
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:5

   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Palegars, Tippu Sultan

Ambajidurga Fort

48. Rehmangarh Fort-ರೆಹ್ಮಾನ್ಘಡ್ ಕೋಟೆ  
   District: Chikkaballapura
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:3

   Dynasty ruled: Palegars, Tippu Sultan, British

Rehmangarh Fort

 49.  Hariharapura Fort - ಹರಿಹರಪುರ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District:Chikkaballapura
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers: 3

   Dynasty ruled:Vijayanagar, Palegars

Hariharapura Fort

 50. Ballalarayana Durga Fort - ಬಲ್ಲಾಳರಾಯನ ದುರ್ಗ

   District: Chikmagalur
   Type: Vanadurga + Giridurga

   No. of tiers:3

   Dynasty ruled: Hoysalas

Ballalarayana Durga Fort

 51. Mullayanagiri Fort - ಮುಳ್ಳಯ್ಯನಗಿರಿ ಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Chikmagalur
   Type: Vanadurga + Giridurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Hoysalas

Mullayanagiri Fort

 52. Brahmagiri Fort - ಬ್ರಹ್ಮಗಿರಿ ಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Chitradurga
   Type: Giridurga

   No of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled: Maurya, Satavahanas, Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Nayakas of Chitradurga

Brahmagiri Fort

 53. Ramdurga Fort - ರಾಮದುರ್ಗ 

   District: Chitradurga
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:2

   Dynasty ruled: Nayakas of Chitradurga

Ramadurga Fort

54. Chitradurga Fort - ಚಿತ್ರದುರ್ಗ ಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Chitradurga
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:7

  Dynasty ruled: Satavahanas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Nayakas of Chitradurga, Hyder Ali, British

Chitradurga Fort

 55. Imangala Fort- ಐಮಂಗಳ ಕೋಟೆ

   District: Chitradurga
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:2

   Dynasty ruled: Nayaks of Chitradurga, Tippu Sultan, British

Imangala Fort

 56. Jatinga Rameshwara Fort- ಜಟಿಂಗ ರಾಮೇಶ್ವರ ಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Chitradurga
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:3

   Dynasty ruled: Maurya, Satavahanas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Nayakas of Chitradurga

Jating Rameshwara Fort

 57. Narasimhaghada Fort- ನರಸಿಂಹಘಢ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Dakshina Kannada 
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:3

   Dynasty ruled: Alupa, Tippu Sultan, British

Narasimhaghada Fort

 58. Kanakuppa Fort - ಕಣಕುಪ್ಪ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Davangere
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:3

   Dynasty ruled: Nayakas of Chitradurga

Kanakuppa Fort

 59. Huchangidurga Fort - ಹುಚoಗಿದುರ್ಗ

   District: Davangere
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers: 7

   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Nayakas of Chitradurga, Palegars, Tippu Sultan, British

Uchangidurga Fort

 60. Garbhagudi Fort - ಗರ್ಭಗುಡಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Davanagere
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers: 1

   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas, Palegars

Garbhagudi Fort

61. Dharwad Fort - ಧಾರವಾಡ ಕೋಟೆ

   District: Dharwad
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers: 3

   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Bijapur Sultanate, Marathas, British

Shree Narayana Swamy Temple, Dharwad Fort

 62. Dambal Fort - ಡಂಬಲ್ ಕೋಟೆ

   District: Gadag
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Bijapur Sultanate, Marathas, British

Dambal Fort

 63. Malkhed Fort - ಮಲಖೇಡ್ ಕೋಟೆ

   District: Gulbarga
   Type: Jaladurga

   No. of tiers:2

   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Bahamanis, Bijapur Sultanate, Nizams, British

Malkhed/ Manyakheta Fort

 64. Gulbarga Fort - ಕಲ್ಬುರ್ಗಿ ಕೋಟೆ  

   District: Gulbarga
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled:Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Bahamanis, Bijapur Sultanate, Nizams, British

Gulbarga Fort

 65. Sedam Fort - ಸೇಡಂ ಕೋಟೆ

   District: Gulbarga
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Bahamanis, Bijapur Sultanate, Nizams

Bananti Khamba, Sedam Fort

 66. Gottamgotta Fort - ಗೊಟ್ಟಂಗೊಟ್ಟ ಕೋಟೆ

   District: Gulbarga
   Type: Mahidurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Satavahanas, Badami Chalukyas, Kalyani Chalukyas

Shree Eshwara Temple, Gottam Gotta Fort

 67. Handarki Fort - ಹಂಡರ್ಕಿ ಕೋಟೆ

   District: Gulbarga
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Kakatiyas

Handarki Fort

 68. Maharajanadurga Fort - ಮಹಾರಾಜನದುರ್ಗ 
   District: Hassan
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled: Palegars, Tippu Sultan, British

Maharajanadurga Fort

69. Garudanagiri Fort - ಗರುಡನಗಿರಿ ಕೋಟೆ

   District: Hassan
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled: Hoysalas, Palegars, Tippu Sultan

Garudanagiri Fort

 70. Banavara Fort - ಬಾಣವಾರ ಕೋಟೆ  

   District: Hassan
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:2

   Dynasty ruled: Hoysalas, Palegars

Banavara Fort

 71. Haranahalli Fort - ಹಾರನಹಳ್ಳಿ ಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Hassan
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Hoysalas

Haranahalli Fort Mahadwara

72. Shravanabelagola Fort - ಶ್ರವಣಬೆಳಗೊಳ ಕೋಟೆ

   District: Hassan
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Maurya, Gangas, Hoysalas

Shravanabelagola Fort, Chandragiri

 73. Manjarabad Fort- ಮಂಜರಾಬಾದ್  ಕೋಟೆ

   District: Hassan
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Hoysalas, Tippu Sultan

Manjirabad Fort (PC: Abhiram Shanubhog)

74. Nuggehalli Fort - ನುಗ್ಗೇಹಳ್ಳಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Hassan
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Hoysalas

Nuggehalli Fort Gateway

 75. Hangal Fort - ಹಾನಗಲ್ ಕೋಟೆ

   District: Haveri
   Type: Mahidurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Kadambas, Badami Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Hangal Kadambas

Shree Veerabhadra Temple, Hangal Fort

 76. Bankapura Fort - ಬಂಕಾಪುರ ಕೋಟೆ  

   District: Haveri
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:3

   Dynasty ruled: Kadambas, Badami Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Hangal Kadambas

Shree Nagareshwara Temple, Bankapura Fort

77. Tekal Fort  - ಟೇಕಲ್ ಕೋಟೆ

   District: Kolar
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Palegars

Terrain of Tekal Fort

78. Paparajanahalli Fort - ಪಾಪರಾಜನಹಳ್ಳಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Kolar
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:3

   Dynasty ruled: Ganga, Cholas, Hoysalas, Palegars

Paparajanahalli Fort

 79. Avani Fort - ಅವಣಿ ಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Kolar
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:3

   Dynasty ruled: Ganga, Cholas, Hoysalas, Palegars

Avani Fort Entrance

 80. Mulbagal Fort - ಮುಳಬಾಗಿಲು ಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Kolar
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled: Ganga, Cholas, Hoysalas, Palegars, Vijayanagar, Tippu Sultan

Mulbagal Fort

 81. Virupakshi Fort - ವಿರುಪಾಕ್ಷಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Kolar
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers: 1

   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar

Virupakshi Fort

 82. Kurudumale Fort - ಕುರುಡುಮಲೆ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Kolar
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:3

   Dynasty ruled: Ganga, Cholas, Hoysalas, Palegars, Vijayanagar

Kurudumale Fort

 83. Kanakagiri Fort - ಕನಕಗಿರಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Koppal
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Palegars

Kanakagiri Fort

 84. Anegundi Fort-ಆನೆಗುಂಡಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Koppal
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled:Vijayanagar, Bahamanis, British

Anegundi Fort

 85. Koppal Fort - ಕೊಪ್ಪಳ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Koppal
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled: Badami Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Bahamanis, Marathas, Tippu Sultan, British

Koppal Fort

 86. Madkeri Fort - ಮಡಿಕೇರಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Madkeri/ Kodagu
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Raja of Madkeri, Tippu Sultan, British

Royal Tombs of Raja of Madkeri 

 87. Narayanadurga Fort - ನಾರಾಯಣದುರ್ಗ 
   District: Mandya
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:5

   Dynasty ruled: Hoysalas, Palegars

Narayanadurga Fort

 88. Melukote Fort - ಮೇಲುಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Mandya
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers: 3

   Dynasty ruled: Gangas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Wodeyars, Marathas, Tippu Sultan

Melukote Fort

 89. Srirangapatna Fort - ಶ್ರೀರಂಗಪಟ್ಟಣ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Mandya
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:3

   Dynasty ruled: Gangas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Wodeyars, Marathas, Tippu Sultan, British

Shree Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangapatnam

90. Mysore Fort- ಮೈಸೂರು ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Mysore
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:2

   Dynasty ruled: Gangas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Wodeyars, Marathas, Tippu Sultan, British

Mysore Palace, Mysore Fort

 91. Bettadapura Fort - ಬೆಟ್ಟದಪುರ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Mysore
   Type: Giridurga+ Vanadurga

   No. of tiers:5

   Dynasty ruled: Gangas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Wodeyars, British

Bettadapura Fort

 92. Raichur Fort - ರಾಯಚೂರು ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Raichur
   Type: Giridurga+ Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Kakatiyas, Bahamanis, Vijayanagar, Bijapur Sultanate, Mughals, Nizam

Raichur Fort

 93. Jalamangala Fort- ಜಲಮಂಗಳ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Ramanagar
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:3

   Dynasty ruled: Nadaprabhus, Hyder Ali

Jalamangala

 94. Kabbaladurga Fort - ಕಬ್ಬಾಳದುರ್ಗ
   District: Ramanagar
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled: Palegars, Nadaprabhus, Hyder Ali, British

Kabbaladurga Fort

 95. Ramanagar Fort - ರಾಮನಗರ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Ramanagar
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:5

   Dynasty ruled:Gangas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Nadaprabhus, Hyder Ali, Marathas, British

Ramanagar Fort

 96. Hutridurga Fort - ಉತ್ತರಿದುರ್ಗ 
   District: Ramanagar
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:8

   Dynasty ruled: Nadaprabhus, Palegars

Huthridurga Fort

 97. Magadi Fort - ಮಾಗಡಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Ramanagar
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Nadaprabhus, Palegars

Gopuram of Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Magadi Fort

 98. Savanadurga Fort - ಸಾವನದುರ್ಗ 
   District: Ramanagar
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled: Gangas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Nadaprabhus, Hyder Ali, Marathas, British

Savanadurga Fort

 99. Hosadurga Fort - ಹೊಸದುರ್ಗ 
   District: Ramanagar
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:5

   Dynasty ruled: Nadaprabhus, Palegars, Wodeyars

Hosadurga Fort

 100. Nagara Fort - ನಗರ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Shivamogga
   Type: Vanadurga

   No. of tiers:3

   Dynasty ruled: Keladi

Nagara Fort

101. Kavaledurga Fort - ಕವಲೇದುರ್ಗ 
   District: Shivamogga
   Type: Vanadurga + Giridurga

   No. of tiers:3

   Dynasty ruled: Keladi

Kavaledurga Fort

 102. Ikkeri Fort- ಇಕ್ಕೇರಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Shivamogga
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Keladi

Ikkeri Fort

 103. Kodachadri Fort - ಕೊಡಚಾದ್ರಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Shivamogga
   Type: Vanadurga + Giridurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Keladi

Shree Sankaracharya Temple, Kodachadri Fort

 104. Pavagada Fort - ಪಾವಗಡ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled: Nolambas, Gangas, Hoysalas, Palegars, Hyder Ali, British

Pavagada Fort

 105. Nidgal Fort- ನಿಡಗಲ್  ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled: Nolambas, Gangas, Hoysalas, Palegars, Hyder Ali, British

Nidgal Fort

 106. Bhasmangi Fort-  ಭಸ್ಮಾoಗಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:3 

   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Nayakas, Hyder Ali, Marathas, British

Bhasmangi Fort

 107. Madhugiri Fort - ಮಧುಗಿರಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Nayakas, Hyder Ali, Marathas, British

Madhugiri Fort

 108. Sira Fort- ಶಿರಾ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:2

   Dynasty ruled: Nayakas, Bijapur Sultanate, Mughal, Marathas, Hyder Ali, British

Sira Fort

 109. Hulukudi Fort - ಹುಲುಕುಡಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers: 5

   Dynasty ruled: Ganga, Cholas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Palegar

Hulukudi Fort

 110. Midigeshi Fort - ಮಿಡಿಗೇಶಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Giridurga

   No of tiers:5

   Dynasty ruled: Palegars, Marathas, Tippu, Wodeyars, British

Midigeshi Fort

 111. Channarayanadurga Fort - ಚನ್ನರಾಯನದುರ್ಗ 
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled: Palegars, Marathas, Tippu, Wodeyars, British

Channarayanadurga Fort

 112. Nijagal Fort - ನಿಜಗಲ್ಲು ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled: Gangas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Nadaprabhus, Marathas, Tippu Sultan, British

Nijagal Fort

 113. Devarayanadurga Fort - ದೇವರಾಯನದುರ್ಗ 
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Nadaprabhus, Palegars, Tippu Sultan, British

Devarayanadurga Fort

 114. Hikkalappana Betta Fort - ಹಿಕ್ಕಳಪ್ಪನ ಬೆಟ್ಟ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:3

   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Nadaprabhus, Palegars

Rock Cut Steps, Hikkalappana Betta

 115. Huliyurdurga  Fort - ಹುಲಿಯೂರುದುರ್ಗ 
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:5

   Dynasty ruled: Nadaprabhus, Palegars

Huliyurdurga Fort

 116. Tumkooru  Fort - ತುಮಕೂರು ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:5

   Dynasty ruled: Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Marathas

Tumkooru Fort

 117. Kunigal Fort - ಕುಣಿಗಲ್ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled:Gangas, Cholas, Hoysalas

Kunigal Fort Entrance

 118. Barkur  Fort - ಬರ್ಕುರ್ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Udupi
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Alupa, Vijayanagar, Tippu, British

Barkur Fort

 119. Kaup  Fort - ಕಾಪು ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Udupi
   Type: Jaladurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Alupa, Vijayanagar, Tippu, British

Kaup Fort

 120. Banavasi  Fort - ಬನವಾಸಿ ಕೋಟೆ 

   District: Uttara Kannada
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers:1

   Dynasty ruled: Satavahanas, Kadambas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Sonda Kings

Shree Madhukeshwara Temple Complex, Banavasi Fort

 121. Mirjan Fort - ಮಿರ್ಜಾನ್ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Uttara Kannada
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers: 3 

   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Keladi, Bijapur Sultanate, Portuguese

Mirjan Fort

122. Yadgir Fort - ಯಾದಗಿರಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Yadgir
   Type: Giridurga

   No. of tiers:7

   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas,Yadavas, Bahamanis, Adil Shahi, Nizam

Yadgir Fort

 123. Gurmitkal Fort - ಗುರ್ಮಿಟ್ಕಲ್ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Yadgir
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers: 1

   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas

Stepped Well, Gurmitkal Fort

 124. Shahapura Fort - ಶಹಾಪುರ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Yadgir
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers: 5

   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas, Adil Shahis, British

Shahapura Fort

125. Shorapura Fort - ಶೋರಾಪುರ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Yadgir
   Type: Bhudurga

   No. of tiers: 2

   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Bahamanis, British

Shree Venugopalaswamy Kalyani, Shorapura Fort

 126. Achaludurga - ಅಚ್ಚಲುದುರ್ಗ 
District: Ramanagar 
Type: Giridurga
No of tiers: 3
Dynasty ruled: Nadaprabhus, British

Achaludurga Fort

127. Avathi - ಆವತಿ
District: Bengaluru Rural
No of tiers: 1
Dynasty  Ruled: Hoysalas, Avathi Nadaprabhus, Yelhanka Nadaprabhus, Wodeyars

Avathi Fort

128. Savanur - ಸವಣೂರು
District: Haveri
No of tiers: 1
Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas, Bahamanis, Savanur Nawabs 

Savanur fort 

129. Koratagere - ಕೋರಟಗೆರೆ
District: Tumkooru 
No of tiers: 3
Dynasty ruled: Holvanahalli Palegars, Wodeyars, Marathas, Tippu Sultan

Koratagere Fort

130. Talavadi - ತಾಳವಾಡಿ 
District: Ramanagara
No of Tiers: 7
Dynasty Ruled: Nadaprabhus

Talavadi Fort

131. Koonagal-ಕೋನಗಲ್
District: Ramanagara
No of Tiers:3
Dynasty Ruled: Nadaprabhus

Koonagal Fort

There are many other forts in Karnataka which are yet to be explored by us and the above list will be updated regularly. We are glad to share that this post also marks our 9th anniversary of blogging!!!

References
1. Karnataka Gazetteer's
2. Journeys across Karnataka
3. ಬಳ್ಳಾರಿ ಜಿಲ್ಲೆಯ ಕೋಟೆಗಳು - Dr.M.Kotresh

Related Posts: 
1.101 interesting places to visit near Bangalore within 125 km
2.Top 100 Must Visit Lesser Known Temples of Karnataka - Part II
3.Top 50 Must Visit Lesser Known Temples of Karnataka