Located close to Bangalore in Karnataka, India, Devanahalli Fort is among the most ancient and historic landmarks eminent since the 16th century. Constructed by Malla Byre Gowda of the Morasu Wokkalu family of Rajahuli, this old fort has witnessed the stirred-up wars within its precincts and played a lead role in the chronicles of the region. Amended with lush landscapes all around, Devanahalli Fort Bangalore is famous for its robust architecture characterised by massive bastions, strong walls, and finely carved entrances. The Fort, imminent with historical and cultural value, supplemented with architectural beauty, makes it even more interesting for history lovers and tourists at large.
Devanahalli Fort Bangalore History
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One of the historical places located near Bangalore in Karnataka, Devanahalli Fort was built in 1501 by Malla Byre Gowda. It has been a silent witness to many historic events and battles fought, inclusive of being captured by Hyder Ali and later his son, Tipu Sultan. The fort served as one of the strategic military strongholds, which played a rather remarkable role in the midst of a tussle between the Marathas, the Mughals, and the Kingdom of Mysore.
This fort is also famous as the birthplace of Tipu Sultan, the “Tiger of Mysore.” Devanahalli Fort Bangalore’s history has a strong nuance of the region’s colonial and pre-colonial past, making it highly sought after in understanding South Indian heritage.
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Devanahalli Fort Bangalore Architecture
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The Devanahalli Fort Bangalore forms a striking specimen of 16th-century military architecture. Stone and lime mortar were used to construct the big walls of the fort; semicircular bastions, apt for mounting heavy firearms, support the walls. The main entrances of the fort have ornate carvings and wooden doors studded with metal spikes as the gateway, testimonies to the skills of those times.
Within the fort, there are various ancient temples, notably the Venugopalaswamy Temple, which showcases the grace of Dravidian architectural elements. This fort’s design and layout blend both its defensive capabilities with its aesthetic appeal, reflecting the ingenuity of architecture at that time.
Devanahalli Fort Bangalore Timings
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The Fort of Devanahalli stays open to visitors from 7:00 AM till 8:30 PM, every day of the week. It is recommended to visit the fort early to see it clearly in the sun and feel its architecture.
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Devanahalli Fort Nearby Places To Visit
Devanahalli Fort Bangalore showcases the bounty of Indian history and architectural greatness. The fort stands surrounded by many other places of interest, making the place more interesting to visitors. Places like Nandi Hills, 20 km from here, turn this into a hill station—what one can relate to with sunrise views, trekking trails, and the ancient Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple at its base.
1. Nandi Hills
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Situated about 20 km away from Devanahalli Fort Bangalore, Nandi Hills is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Karnataka. The serenity of the surroundings and beautiful views characterise the place at an altitude of 1,478 metres above mean sea level.
Nandi Hills refreshingly takes away all the hustle and bustle of the urban world. The hills are famous for their magnificent sunrise views. Early in the morning, a view is presented of the sun rising above a sea of clouds, embracing and counterbalancing an atmosphere—mesmerising and tranquil.
Tipu’s Drop is one of the cardinal points of interest in Nandi Hills, a historic cliff point that suddenly drops 600 metres to the panoramic view of the landscape. According to legend, in the reign of Tipu Sultan, prisoners were thrown down this cliff. Another prime attraction, the Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, stands at the base of the hills. This ancient temple complex of Lord Shiva shows intricate Dravidian architecture with beautifully carved sculptures.
Major Attractions: Hiking and birding
Tip: We highly recommend visiting this hilltop at early dawn to see the sunrise. It is breathtaking the way the sun comes up above the layers of clouds.
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2. Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple
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Another of the oldest and most ancient temples in Karnataka is the Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, located at the base of Nandi Hills, lying about 16 kilometres from Devanahalli Fort Bangalore. This ancient temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva is an outstanding example of Dravidian architecture and South Indian temple art with its breathtaking structure.
This temple was built in the 9th century during the reign of the Nolamba Dynasty and was increased and improved upon by rulers of the Chola, Hoysala, and Vijayanagara dynasties thereafter.
The Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple complex houses three main shrines, namely, Bhoga Nandeeshwara, Arunachaleshwara, and Uma Maheshwara. In the Bhoga Nandeeshwara shrine, Lord Shiva is depicted as being in the young phase of adulthood. The shrine of Arunachaleshwara typifies Lord Shiva in the proper and mature phase of adulthood. It is in the Uma Maheshwara shrine that one finds brilliant carvings depicting the marriage of Shiva with Parvati.
Major Attractions: Exploring the elaborate architecture and intricate carvings on the sculptures.
Tip: Do visit this temple complex early in the morning as the atmosphere is serene and peaceful then. The intricate Dravidian architectural style is best appreciated without the crowds seen later in the day, especially.
3. Skandagiri
Skandagiri, also called Kalavara Durga, is an exceptionally beautiful hill fortress located 25 km from Devanahalli Fort Bangalore. To trekkers and nature enthusiasts, it would be of interest since it combines the ventilating effect of adventure with the refreshing thrill of the experience. At an altitude of about 1,450 metres above sea level, Skandagiri offers moments of spectacular views, especially at sunrise and sunset.
The Skandagiri trek is of medium difficulty and takes approximately 4-5 hours to complete a round trip. It has a steep climb through rugged terrain and dense forests, which meant that it was perfect for those in search of an adrenaline-pumping good adventure. Night treks are much in demand since one can summit and view the sunrise when the horizon lights up with hues of orange and pink, creating a spellbinding sight.
At the top, one finds the broken remains of an ancient fort of great military significance that Tipu Sultan has used. Walls, bastions, temples—fragments of old ruins view the trek with history and offer a glimpse into the past of the region. The panoramic view of rolling hills and valleys, along with the amount of peace required at the top, is worth the amount of effort one is putting in.
Major Attractions: Trekking, camping, and night outs
Tip: It must be an organised night trek to Skandagiri to receive and view the gorgeous sunrise at the top. Don’t forget your flashlight and other equipment to climb in the dark.
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4. Muddenahalli
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Muddenahalli, located about 20 km from Devanahalli Fort Bangalore is one of the most attractive villages known for its history and culture. It’s most famously identified as the birthplace of Sir M. Visvesvaraya, one of India’s greatest engineers and statesmen. This serene village offers a unique blend of history, engineering marvels, and natural beauty to the visitors. The single biggest attraction in Muddenahalli is a museum of the life and times of Sir M Visvesvaraya. The museum in his ancestral home Permalink(features displays his personal belongings, letters, photographs, and some of the numerous felicitations and honours he received during his distinguished career. It is an interesting revelation of how Visvesvaraya contributed to the development of engineering, planning, and nation-building.
Another popular viewpoint is of the Nandi Hills, situated nearby, which presents a riveting panoramic view of the surroundings. The ambience is perfect for those seeking peace and picturesque beauty, therefore making it an ideal picnic and relaxation spot. In Muddenahalli, one can also locate the Sri Sathya Sai Baba Ashram, a spiritual retreat. The ashram is really a calm and serene place perfect for meditation and introspection, with its beautiful, well-maintained gardens and tranquil atmosphere, which is conducive to comfort for those visiting the place as a solace for their souls.
Major Attractions: Explore nearby locations including Anjaneya temple and Baanathi Bande.
Tip: You must visit the Visvesvaraya Museum in Muddenahalli to understand the life and accomplishments of Sir M Visvesvaraya, India’s illustrious engineer. Guided tours bring out all the nuances associated with it.
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Who’s ready to discover the rich heritage and stunning natural beauty around Devanahalli Fort Bangalore? Plan your trip to Bangalore today for an awesome view from Nandi Hills, ancient architecture at Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, fun-trekked Skandagiri, and history at Muddenahalli’s Visvesvaraya Museum. Get ready for those unforgettable experiences; start now!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Devanahalli Fort Bangalore
What is the historical significance of Devanahalli Fort Bangalore?
Devanahalli Fort Bangalore holds great importance in history as it was initially constructed in 1501 by a local chieftain named Malla Byre Gowda. It was a stronghold of strategic importance and has seen many battles fought for its possession. Later, it was ruled by Hyder Ali and his son, Tipu Sultan, who made this place their most important military base during the wars against the British and other local powers. The fort's architecture and remains here were testimonies to the political and military history of this region.
How to Reach Devanahalli Fort from Bangalore?
Devanahalli Fort Bangalore, located nearly 35 km north of Bangalore city, is quite convenient to reach by Road. One can hire a taxi or drive via NH 44 towards Hyderabad and take the Devanahalli exit. Another option is available with buses and other public transport running between Bangalore and Devanahalli.
What are the architectural features of Devanahalli Fort Bangalore?
This fort is characterised by robust stone walls and bastions to resist enemy attacks. The front gate is of a commanding nature. Its carvings and metal spikes on the wooden doors give it the impression of being a mix of Hindu and Islamic styles of architecture. It comprises several buildings of temples, one of which is the Venugopalaswamy Temple, which reflects the typical character of the Dravidian style of architecture.
Are there any entry fees for visiting the Devanahalli Fort Bangalore?
As of the latest information, there is no entrance fee to enter Devanahalli Fort Bangalore It remains open for public viewing during certain hours, generally early morning till late in the evening. Any tourist can walk around and go through the fort, its surroundings, temples, along historical artefacts.
What are places of interest near Devanahalli Fort Bangalore?
Many places of interest are located around Devanahalli Fort Bangalore. Other places of interest nearby are Nandi Hills, with their beauty and ancient temples; Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, which is a historical temple complex of Lord Shiva; and Muddenahalli, the birthplace of Visvesvaraya, showcasing a museum of his life mission. This varied set of places encompasses beauty, culture, and history.
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