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Gingee Fort, also known as Senji Fort, is a famous historical fort located in the Villupuram district of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the strongest forts in India and was once called the “Troy of the East” by the British because of its tough and smart design. Built many centuries ago, the fort has been ruled by several powerful kings and empires like the Cholas, Vijayanagara rulers, Marathas, and Mughals.
The fort is spread over three hills—Krishnagiri, Rajagiri, and Chandrayandurg—and covers a large area with thick walls, temples, watchtowers, and beautiful views. It is a great place to visit if you love history, nature, or photography. In this article, you will learn about the history of Gingee Fort, its main features, some interesting facts, visiting timings, and the top attractions to see inside the fort
Table of Contents
History of Gingee Fort
The 12th century witnessed the laying of the foundation stones for Gingee Fort by the Kon dynasty. It is believed that it was originally built by Ananta Kon around 1190 AD and further fortification was done by his descendent Krishna Kon in the 13th century.
- The subsequent century saw the Cholas and the Vijayanagara Empire leave their mark on the fort, transforming it into a formidable defensive complex through continuous modifications and expansions.
- The 15th and 16th centuries saw the rise of the Gingee Nayaks, initially under the Vijayanagara Empire’s umbrella.
- In 1677, the Marathas, led by the legendary Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, wrested control of the fort from the Bijapur sultanates, adding another chapter to its ever-evolving story.
- The year 1691 marked a significant event when the Mughals, under the leadership of Santaji Ghorpade, laid siege to the fort but were ultimately unsuccessful in capturing it.
- However, in 1698, after a prolonged and relentless siege, the Mughals finally breached the fort’s defences, marking a turning point in its history.
- The 18th century witnessed the fort changing hands multiple times, becoming a coveted prize in the power struggles of the region. The Carnatic Nawabs, the French, and the British finally in the year 1761, all vied for control, with a brief interlude under Hyder Ali’s rule.
| Commissioned by | Kon Dynasty |
| Also Known as | Troy of East; Senji Fort |
| Location | Villupuram District, Tamil Nadu |
| Timings | 9:00 am to 4:30 pm; Open Everyday |
| Entry Fee for fort | ₹ 15 for Indians; ₹ 100 for foreigners |
| Camera | Allowed and Free |
Features of Gingee Fort
The fort is divided into three main hills – Krishnagiri, Chandrayandurg, and Rajagiri – each with its own unique features and structures.
Rajagiri (Main Fort):
- It is the most impregnable citadel at about 800 feet high.
- It can be reached through seven gates.
- This main fort contains important buildings like a seven-storied Kalyana Mahal (marriage hall), Stables, Granaries, Meeting halls, Temples, Mosques, Shrines and Pavilions
- The Kamalakanni Amman temple is dedicated to the presiding deity, Kamalakanni.
- The Ranganathar Temple, bell tower, watch tower, cannon, and drawbridge are some other features of this hill.
- Lower Fort: This fort includes: Arcot Gate, and Pondicherry Gate, which was later improved by the French. Prison, Tanks, the Platform where Raja Desingh died, a Large Hanuman statue and the Prisoner’s well.
- The inner fort contains: the Kalyana Mahal, Royal stables, Ruined royal palace, Granaries, Magazine and Venugopalaswami shrine
- Krishnagiri: It is a smaller citadel north of Tiruvannamalai road and can be reached by granite steps.
- Chandrayan Durg: This hill’s military significance is less than other forts. It contains interesting buildings from later periods.
- Chakkiliya Durg: It is another fort which is believed to be possibly used by Chamar warriors.
Some Additional Features include –
- Two freshwater sources on the summit of Rajagiri.
- Three rainwater storage reservoirs.
- Site museum with sculptures and artefacts.
- Scattered guns and cannonballs.
- It is surrounded by thick walls and fortified gates, making it a challenging fortress to conquer. It was given the title of “the impregnable fort” by Shivaji Maharaj himself.
Interesting Facts about Gingee Fort
- Gingee Fort is often referred to as the “Troy of the East” due to its impenetrable defences and strategic significance.
- Gingee Fort has been featured in various literary works, including Tamil epics and historical chronicles.
- The fort’s architectural grandeur and historical importance have earned it a place on the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- The fort was declared a national monument in the year 1921.
Also Read – Lohagad Fort History: Features, Facts, Timing & More
Timings of Gingee Fort
The timings for visiting the Monument and watching the mesmerising views are as –
| Purpose | Timings |
| Entry | 9:00 am to 4:30 pm |
| Week Entry | Everyday |
| Entry Fee | For Indian citizens- Rs 15; For Foreigners – Rs 100 |
| Camera | Free |
The fort’s underground escape routes and secret chambers add to its aura of mystique and intrigue. In conclusion, Gingee Fort stands as a treasure trove of history and adds to the rich history and cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu and India as a country.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
While Gingee Fort is the central attraction, its surrounding areas also offer cultural and historical landmarks that enrich the travel experience.
Places Worth Visiting:
- Thiruvannamalai Temple: One of the largest temple complexes in India, located about 40 km away.
- Melmalayanur Temple: A significant pilgrimage site with unique rituals.
- Arunachala Hill: A sacred site associated with spiritual practices and meditation.
- Villupuram Town: The nearest urban center with connectivity and accommodation options.
These nearby attractions provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the region’s spiritual and architectural heritage.
FAQs
Gingee Fort is one of India’s most strategically designed hill forts, originally built by the Cholas and later fortified by the Vijayanagara Empire. It changed hands among the Marathas, Mughals, French, and British, making it a key military site throughout South Indian history.
Key attractions include the Rajagiri Citadel, Kalyana Mahal, granaries, watchtowers, temples, and water tanks like Anaikulam. The fort also offers panoramic views and historical ruins spread across three hills.
Gingee Fort is open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Entry fees are ₹25 for Indian nationals and ₹300 for foreign nationals, while children below 15 years can enter free of charge.
Relevant Blogs
That’s all about Gingee 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!
