Click it and Unblock the Notifications
Chitradurga, a picturesque place surrounded by rocky boulders, originally was known as Chitrakaldurga. This place has stood the test of time and is known for its umbrella-shaped fort. Chitradurga is at a distance of 200 km from Bangalore and is located in the river valley of river Vedavati. Since the place is surrounded by rocks, boulders and valleys, it is fondly known as "Kallina Kote" or Stone Fortress.
It is said that the hill at Chitradurga was once an abode of the demon king Hidimba and his sister Hidimbi. Hidimbi was a peace lover while her brother killed humans to satisfy his hunger. When the Pandavas reached Chitradurga during their exile, Bhima waged a war against Hidimba and killed him.
Chitradurga is also known for its famous ruler Madakari Nayaka and the brave lady Onake Obavva. Onake Obavva is known for her bravery; she was successful in killing hundreds of enemy soldiers of Hyder Ali who had secretly tried entering the land of Chitradurga through an opening. The opening is found in the fort and it is called by the name, "Obavvana Kindi".
Filled with amazing history and legend, Chitradurga is a true treasure to explore. Let us go ahead and see some of the must-visit places here; read on!
1. Chitradurga Fort
Distance from Chitradurga bus stand: 1.3 km
Built between the 10th and 18th centuries by the kings of various dynasties, this fort is a must-visit place in Chitradurga. The fort underwent its last renovation during the rule of Tipu Sultan. There is a huge temple at the lower part and eighteen temples on the upper part. There is also a mosque inside the fort which was built during the reign of Hyder Ali. The fort has a temple dedicated to Hidimbeshwara, the demon king. The temple also has a tooth of Hidimba and a drum that belonged to Bhima.
PC : Ankit Darsi
2. Vani Vilas Sagar Dam
Distance from Chitradurga bus stand: 58.8 km
Located in Hiriyur of Chitradurga district, Vani Vilas Sagar Dam is popularly known as Mari Kanive. It was built by the Mysore Kings across the river, Vedavathi. The construction of the dam was initiated by the queen, the widow of Maharaja Chamaraja Wodeyar. It is said that the Mysore kingdom had to pledge their jewellery for the construction of this huge dam which is higher than the KRS dam. The dam gets its name from the youngest daughter of the Mysore royal family, Vani Vilasa.
PC :Prayanika
3. Chandravalli
Distance from Chitradurga bus stand: 3.6 km
Chandravalli is a valley that is formed by three hills, Chitradurga, Kirbanakallu and Cholagudda. This is an archaeological site where a lot of materials belonging to the dynasties of Hoysalas and Satavahanas were found. Coins belonging to the Roman emperor Augustus Caesar and a coin of Chinese Han dynasty emperor Wu Ti were also found during the excavations. According to legend, this place was once ruled by Chandrahasa; hence, the place is named Chandravalli.
PC :Bhat.veeresh
4. Ankali Mutt
Distance from Chitradurga bus stand: 3 km
Also known as Pradeshappana Guhe, it gets its name from the saints from Ankalgi (Belagavi) who once sat here for a meditation. This place has a monastery and Kannada inscriptions that date back to 1286 AD. This place is famous for the Panchalingeswara temple located between two massive rocks. It is said that the five Lingas inside the temple have been installed by the Pandavas. There is also a lake that adds to the beauty of the place.
PC :Nikhil0000711
5. Adumalleshwara Temple
Distance from Chitradurga bus stand: 5 km
Adumalleshwara temple was built by Aadooru Mallappa. This is a cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple premise also has a small zoo which has animals like panthers, deer, tigers, etc. The temple has an everlasting stream which runs through the Nandi's mouth, which is the main attraction here.
PC: Nikhil0000711
