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Chitradurga Fort is also known as Elusuttina Kote which means Fort of Seven Circles. It is a majestic fort located in the Chitradurga district of Karnataka, India. With a history dating back centuries, this fort stands tall as an architectural brilliance and strategic significance of the rulers who once inhabited its walls. Let’s delve into Chitradurga Fort history, features, and facts and uncover its many intriguing facets.
Table of Contents
| Commissioned by | Mauryan Empire |
| Also Known as | Elusuttina Kote |
| Location | Chitradurga district, Karnataka |
| Timings | 10:00 am to 5:30 pm; Open Everyday |
| Entry Fee for fort | Rs 20 for Indians; Rs 300 for foreigners |
| Camera | Allowed and Free |
History of Chitradurga Fort
The Chitradurga Fort has a history that dates back to ancient times, with its origins tracing back to the 10th to 18th centuries. The history of the fort starts with –
- Ancient Beginnings:
- Inscriptions suggest the area dates back to the 3rd millennium BC.
- Linked to the Mauryan Empire under dynasties like Rashtrakutas, Chalukyas, and Hoysalas.
- Rise of the Nayakas:
- Vijaynagar Empire took control of the region, making local Nayakas their feudatories.
- Nayakas declared independence in 1565 and ruled for 200 years.
- Fort played a central role in their reign.
- Shifting Controls:
- the kingdom of Mysore captured the fort in 1779.
- The British gained control after defeating Tipu Sultan in 1799.
- Became part of Mysore province under Wodeyars.
- Tipu Sultan’s Legacy:
- He commissioned further fortification work and built a mosque within the fort.
- British and Beyond:
- British controlled the fort after defeating Tipu Sultan.
- After independence, it came under the Mysore government.
Features of Chitradurga Fort
The architecture of Chitradurga Fort reflects a blend of various styles, including Dravidian, Indo-Islamic, and European influences, making it a unique cultural marvel. The fort is spread over a sprawling area of approximately 1,500 acres.
- It is believed that the fort originally consisted of nearly 19 gateways, 35 secret entrances, 38 postern gates and 4 “invisible” entrances.
- Known for its granite ramparts, multiple layers of walls, secret passages, and watchtowers.
- There are two ponds with the name Akka-Thangi Kolas which means elser and younger sisters.
- A magnificent rock tower stands in the middle of the fort and is named “ Dwaja Sthamba”.
- Another feature is its unique seven protective walls, which earned it the moniker of “Kallina Kote” or the “Stone Fortress.”
- The fort is home to several temples dedicated to deities such as Hidimbeshwara, Phalguneshvara, Ekanathamma, Gopalakrishna, Anjaneya, Subbaraya, Basava and Sampige Siddeshwara, reflecting the religious significance of the site.
- There are zigzag pathways to reach the fort and also has gates with attached Iron spikes.
Also Read – Purandar Fort History: Features, Facts, Timings & More
Facts about Chitradurga Fort
- Chitradurga Fort is famously known as “Yelu Suttina Kote” or “Seven Circles Fort” due to its multiple concentric walls.
- The fort is said to have withstood several sieges and attacks over the centuries, earning it the moniker of “One of the Toughest Forts in the World.”
- The fort is also famous for the legendary tale of Onake Obavva Kindi, a brave woman who single-handedly defended the fort against enemy soldiers using a pestle (onake) and thwarted Hyder Ali’s initial attack on a secret crevice in 1779. Though the fort eventually fell, her heroism is remembered.
- Chitradurga Fort has been designated as a protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Also Read – Nahargarh Fort History: Features, Facts, Timings & More
Timings of Chitradurga Fort
There are avenues of trekking at the fort and the timings for visiting the Monument and watching the mesmerising views are –
| Purpose | Timings |
| Entry | 10:00 am to 5:30 pm |
| Week Entry | Everyday |
| Entry Fee | For Indian Citizens – Rs 20 (e-tickets); Rs 25 (for cash payments including SAARC & Bimstec tourists) |
| For Foreigners – Rs 250 (e-tickets); Rs 300 (for cash payment) | |
| Free entry for children below 15 years of age | |
| Camera | Free |
The fort is renowned for its impregnable defences, which were strategically designed to withstand enemy attacks. Its intricate network of interconnecting walls, fortresses, and watchtowers make it a formidable structure that has stood the test of time. In conclusion, the Chitradurga Fort tells the story of bravery and awe-inspiring architecture in Karnataka.
Other Attractions near Chitradurga Fort
| Vani Vilas Sagar Dam | Akali Matt- Chandravalli Caves |
| Davanagere | Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary |
| Ranganathaswamy Temple | Hampi |
| Bheemasamudra Dam | Doddahotrangappa Hill |
Relevant Blogs
That’s all about Chitradurga Fort history! If you want to know more about topics like this, then visit our general knowledge page! Alternatively, you can also read our blog on general knowledge for competitive exams!