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

Balagondarayanadurgam Fort, Krishnagiri, A Trek nearby Bengaluru

As I was researching on 'Baramahal' or the 'Twelve Forts' built around Krishnagiri during the reign of the Vijayanagara Kings, I stumbled upon the fort of 'Balagondarayanadurgam'/'Balakondarayadurga'. 'Balagondarayanadurgam' is located between the towns of Shoolagiri and Krishnagiri. On a Saturday morning, we decided to trek this hill and explore it. It is a fairly big hill with the Bala Kondarayaswamy Thirukkoil (temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu) at its top. We reached the hill base without any difficulty and found a series of well laid steps up to the hill top. There was a small hut at the base of the hill where we could see the fort remains. An elderly couple lived here and as we conversed, we realized they speak the language of Kannada and hence started inquiring about this place.

Balagondarayanadurgam 

Bala Kondarayaswamy Thirukkoil

Trek Leader

Camouflaged Lizard

 The elderly person started narrating the history of this place and told us an interesting legend which was as follows,"Once upon a time when this place was under attack by the Nizam, the local army was on the verge of defeat. It is believed that sensing this defeat, Lord Vishnu hid himself inside a cave here after transforming into a young boy. When the army of the Nizam came to plunder this temple, they found no murti inside and decided to leave the place without causing any damage or destruction. The Lord has stayed inside the cave ever since, thus the name Bala Kondaraya swamy". Later a murti of Lord Venkataramana was installed here. The ascent was pretty simple and straight forward. Meanwhile a group of people were already climbing the hill. One of them, who seemed very elderly was also carrying a big vessel full of prasadam to the temple at the top. It was a good opportunity for us to lend a helping hand and so we did by sharing the good deed of carrying the prasadam. There is also a small temple dedicated to Lord  Anjaneya on the way to the top. There are many water ponds on the hill of which one is currently being used by the temple folks.

Fort Entrance

Remains of Fort Wall

He Man (Carrying Such Heavy Vessel At this Age to the top)

Sharing is Caring

Finally as we made it to the top of the hill, we could see the remains of fortification here. In the temple, the curtain remained closed as it was time for the daily rituals of the Lord and hence we decided to finish our breakfast, the very yummilicious Bisi Bele Bath along with chips!! In no time we emptied all our packed food. Meanwhile, the Archakaru (temple priest) was ready for the puja. We took the blessings of the Lord and visited the near by cave where the Lord originally resided.  The murti here was small yet very beautiful. There is another big water pond a little away from the temple and down the hill by the side of which is a small shrine dedicated to Lord Vinayaka. There are a few caves nearby this water pond wherein the guards probably took shelter. The descent was uneventful. 

Although not much of the history pertaining to this fort is known, the fort seems to have been built post 16th century by the then feudal king under the declining rule of the Vijayanagara kings. The fort is simple in construction and probably served as a military outpost, which today is in complete shambles.

Lord Anjaneya

Akka Thangi Honda (See the color difference)

Ustav Murti

Bala Kondaraya Swamy

Reflections

Orange Wasp

The temple here is functional only on Saturdays and full moon days, so visits must be planned accordingly. 

Sunrise Trek to Huthridurga - Uttari Betta, Treks Around Bengaluru

'Huthridurga/Hutridurga', also popularly called as 'Uttari Betta' among the trekking community is one among the popular trekking trails around Bengaluru. It is rated as one of the easiest treks around Bengaluru suitable for all age groups. It is a great place for beginners who desire to trek. A word of caution for first time trekkers is to better be accompanied by people who are familiar with this place. Huthridurga is about 55 km from Bengaluru and is one of the Navadurgas (nine forts) built by Sri Kempegowda. This fort was built in the 16th century CE and has later undergone a few modifications during the reign of Hyder/Tippu and the British rule. 

This Sunday feb 3 we are going for a Sunrise trek to Huthridurga along with #RTCBengaluru. Interested folks can join us . Huthridurga is one of the Navadurgas (9 forts) built by Sri Kempegowda to Protect Magadi and Bengaluru. @roadtripperclub @WeAreBangalore pic.twitter.com/AkFQ1N2Nkz

— TeamGSquare 🇮🇳 (@TeamGSquare) January 28, 2019

We, from #RTCBengaluru had planned a drive cum trek to Huthridurga this Sunday. Though initially many were interested to join the trek,  the number gradually decreased as the week progressed and after the last minute dropouts, our group comprised of 6 adults and 2 kids. We started our journey on time to Huthridurga and traveled in 2 vehicles. We started from home around 3:15am early morning although our scheduled time of departure was 3:00am. We were a few minutes late as we were waiting for one of our friends to join us. Unfortunately, he failed to pick our call and without wasting any more time we drove to our next assembly point which was Magadi Road. The rest of the group  were already present there. We joined them around 3:45 am and began our drive to Huthridurga, via Magadi.

View this post on Instagram

Sunrise trek at Huthridurga @roadtrippersclub @scoutmytrip @karnatakatravel #Trek #Travel #Trip #Roadtrip #early #morning #workout #climbup #mobile #Mobsnap #mobilephotographer #IGERS #WaahIndia #igramming_india #Ig_Karnataka #Karnatakatravel #travelkarnataka

A post shared by Teamgsquare (@teamgsquare) on Feb 2, 2019 at 5:55pm PST

Since it was that hour of the day when traffic is the least, we were able to cross Magadi in time and reach Huthridurga crossing at 4:45 am as per our plan. Here on we had to drive on a small section of ghat road and as we drove ahead, we were informed that Ravi Sir's vehicle had a break down. An inspection of the vehicle revealed that the issue was with one of the tensioner pulleys that had given way.  A wise decision of stopping the car was made to avoid any further problem. We were a little ahead of them and had to return to check on the situation. The vehicle was parked by the road side leaving enough space for the movement of other vehicles without any hindrance. All of us now drove ahead in one vehicle and reached  Huthridurga which was about 1 km from here. We decided to complete our trek first and check on the availability of a mechanic after our descent. 

Crescent Shaped Moon

We found a proper place for parking at the hill base and started our trek  at 5:15 am. It took us about 45 minutes to reach the top of the hill including a 10 minute break, under the clear black sky dotted with millions of stars and the lone crescent shaped moon. At the break point, I tried my hand at photographing the stars though I couldn't manage capturing a decent picture of the star lit sky. I realized that I should spend some more quality time to learn photographing the skies! We were greeted by a carving of Lord Anjaneya housed in a shelter a little further from here. We trekked  at a slow pace and reached the peak top comfortably. The weather was quite windy and chilly up there and amidst this, we patiently waited for the sun to rise. There is a temple atop the hill built by Sri Kempegowda dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is Sri Sankeshwara Temple which houses a shivalinga with an idol of Lord Nandi opposite to it. Attached on one side to the temple is a mantapa with pillars and roof covered with stone slabs. While my wife and kids took shelter inside the temple to keep themselves warm, the rest of us made ourselves comfortable and took respective positions so we could catch the first glimpse of sunrise.

Yes! He Finally Arrives!

Lord Surya above Savanadurga Hill

What a View!

It was cold and quite breezy, and finally at 6:50 am the Sun made his appearance just like the description of Lord Surya arriving on his seven horsed chariot! Every Sunrise is a unique experience. For the next 20 minutes we enjoyed the showdown utilizing every opportunity for photo ops. After the sun rose and the weather turned warmer, we decided to explore the other portions of the fort. We spent some time between the boulders that acted as wind breakers for having snacks and chatting. Finally we descended and reached the starting point where we again halted for a short break to bask under the sun. It was time for breakfast as we all were quite hungry and drove down towards the town of Magadi for some hot Thatte Idli's (Plate Idli's) and filter coffee. After satisfying our hungry stomachs, our next job was to find a mechanic to fix the car, but being a Sunday most of the shops around remained closed. A few who were open were quite reluctant and refused to come along as the destination was quite far. Meanwhile Ravi Sir contacted his regular mechanic who agreed to come by and fix the car. We dropped everyone at the required stops and reached home safely. The weather turned pretty hot along our return journey and we were only reminded of how pleasant it was atop the hill amidst nature! We were informed by evening that Ravi sir got his vehicle repaired and reached home safely. He is quite an inspiration for all of us and his stories kept us engaged all through our trek and drive. It was yet another great experience. 

Kempasagar Lake

Team on the Top

Trek, Trail and Tales

The Trek Team
1. Teamgsquare (Me, Amrutha, Adhi and Diya) in our Loyal Xylo
2. Ravi Shankar in Mahindra Scorpio
3. Vishwas Gowda, Natesha and Shiva Prakash, car pooled

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