One of the oldest
cities in Karnataka, Chitradurga is a landmark historical tourist destination
famous for its grand forts and buildings. The city has been ruled by multiple
Kings and dynasties, each leaving their imprint on its lifestyle, art,
architecture and religious beliefs. The
highlight of the city is its geographical wonder, an entire settlement resting
on boulders, the oldest rock formation in India. The city is popularly known as
the Stone Fortress or the Kallina Kote, a testimony to its massive towering
boulders, rocky hills and picturesque valleys surrounded by ancient boulders
dating back many eras. One can reach the fortress city via road or rail. Road
transport is via state tourist buses from Bangalore or via private
vehicles. One can alight at the Hubli
junction for travellers visiting the rock city via rail.
Some of the important tourist destinations in this scenic tourist destination in Karnataka are as follows.
Chitradurga Fort
Attraction:
Historical tourist spot, a stronghold of several dynasties
One of the most
famous landmarks in Karnataka, the Chitradurga fort is ensconced among several
hills, overlooking the flat valley in the Chirtadurga district. The fort has
been christened 'Chitrakaldurga', meaning picturesque fort in Kannada. Built
between the tenth and eighteen centuries, the architecture as well as
construction of the fort is of historical interest. The fort was carefully
built in stages by the most powerful rulers in the South, including the
Hoysalas, Chalukyas and the Rashtrakutas, all of the empires famed across the
country for their architectural prowess and glorious reign. The Nayakas of
Chitradurga and the Vijayanagara empire were instrumental in the construction
of the fort with its eighteen magnificent temples. Besides being a stronghold
during the rule of several empires, the fort is of stupendous importance for
its beauty and splendour. Poems of praise have been sung in honour of this
majestic creation, with the most popular poets having dedicated a few lines as a
tribute to this marvel.
 |
 |
 |
 |
Jamia Masjid
Attraction: A splendid
masjid built to honour Tipu Sultan
The Jamia Masjid
was built by Tipu Sultan, in honour of his religion and creative prowess. This
is a splendid creation in league with the famous Masjids and creations of the
Moghuls. It is a grand edifice with marvellous architecture and fantastic
interior design.
Ashoka Siddapura
Attraction:
Emperor Ashoka's Edit Store
One of
Chitradurga's main attractions is the Ashoka Siddapura, an important
archaeological site famous for housing
Emperor Ashoka's edits. Close to this site is Ramagiri, a hillock with
mythical relation to the revered Indian Epic, the Ramayana. A temple dedicated
to the venerable Rameshwara Lord was built in 926 A.D. at this destination.
 |
 |
Brahmagiri Village
Attraction:
Emperor Ashoka's rock edits
This village, the
Brahmagiri is an ancient site of Ishila, one of grand Emperor Ashoka's
provincial capitals. The earliest rock
edits made by King Ashoka in Brahmi script as well as in the Prakriti language
made in 3 BC were discovered here. His scripts contain verses in Kannada,
elevating this quiet, peaceful village into a bustling tourist spot for the
historically inclined.
Chandravalli
Attraction:
Satavahana stronghold
Chandravalli is
an ancient archaeological site, famous for its vast and magnificent collection
of coins, pottery, and artefacts traced back to the prosperous Satavahana
period. The site is located near a large, shimmering, picturesque lake. A
popular tourist spot in this destination is the Ankali Matt, located close to
the caves dotting this site, and houses big Shivalingas for devotees of Lord
Shiva.
 |
 |
Hiriyur
Attraction:
Tirumalleshwara temple
Situated on the
right bank of revered river Vedavathi, Hiriyur is famous for its grand
Tirumalleshwara temple. The temple is a magnificent edifice, with a lofty
Gopura and artistic, colourful paintings on the ceiling of the main hall
depicting scenes from the Ramayana and the Shivapurana.
Entry Fee:
Citizens of India
and visitors from SAARC countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka,
Pakistan, Afghanistan and Maldives and BIMSTEC Countries including Thailand and
Myanmar is Rs. 5 per head. Free entry to children up to 15 years
Other countries:
US $2 or Indian
Rs. 100/- per head
Visit the rock
city of Chitradurga with friends and family for a beautiful vacation among
destinations of historical and religious importance.
No comments:
Post a Comment