Devanahalli Fort Is Perfect For A Day Trip Into The Kingdom Of Tipu Sultan

Devanahalli Fort holds some of the most memorable parts of Bangalore’s history. Built by the Gowda family, home to Tipu Sultan and Hyder Ali and the battleground for the Anglo-Mysore war, the fort has seen history from the frontline for more than five centuries.

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Picture Credit: WikiMedia Commons

The fort of Devanahalli is one of the most important pieces of Bangalore’s history. First constructed as a mud fort in 1501, the fort came into its glory years under Hyder Ali in the 18th century, who fortified the walls of the structure with sturdy stones. The fort is a spectacle of history that has witnessed several significant wars of the land. The fort made by Malla Byre Gowda was a stronghold of the Gowda family until they were overthrown by the Dalwai of Mysore, Nanjarajaiah in 1749. In the coming years, the fort became the seat of power for great leaders such as Tipu Sultan and Hyder Ali. In fact, Tipu Sultan was born near this very fort, at a site which is a protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India today. In its last years of power, the fort was sieged by Lord Cornwallis during the Anglo-Mysore War in 1791. 

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Picture Credit: WikiMedia Commons

Today, the fort stands tall, on the outskirts of Bangalore city, along the highway to the airport. The 20-acre stretch is marked for its rugged architecture with well-built bastions that were used to fire at the enemy in the olden days. The semi-circular entrance lined with cut-plasterwork once saw hordes of horse-ridden cavalry passing through them. You can read about the history of each part of the fort in stone tablets mounted at different spots. The fort also houses various temples dedicated to the local deities. These temples display unique aspects of Dravidian architecture in their shikhara and carved-stone pillars. Many of them offer a glimpse into the Vijayanagara traditions with their signature idols and images. 

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Picture Credit: WikiMedia Commons

The fort is a must-visit spot for every history-nerd in the city, with old treasures waiting to be unearthed in every corner. The vast walls spanning the boundaries, the houses of Tipu Sultan and Hyder Ali, the lush green mango and tamarind trees in the midst of historical monuments make for a perfect day trip into the past. All you need to do is drive a few miles from the city!

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