Bellary Fort

Perched atop of the Ballari Gudda, Bellary fort is source of great tourist attraction. The fort was originally built by Hanumappa Nayaka. Later on the fort was conquered by Hyder Ali in 1769 and was renovated with help of a French engineer. The tunnel inside the fort complex is said to link the cities of Sriragapatna and Mysore.

Myth Behind Bellary Fort
A bitter truth is related to the history of Bellary Fort. As per the legends it is believed that Hyder Ali hanged the French engineer who designed the lower part of the fort. He was put to death for the fact that the neighbouring Kumbara Gudda was taller than Bellari Gudda. Thus to compromise the secrecy, he was hanged and buried near the east gate of the fort.

Divisions of Bellary Fort
Lower Part
The lower part of the Bellary fort lies in the eastern base of the rock. It was constructed by Hyder Ali. There are two entrances to access the lower part, facing eastern and western directions. On the eastern entrance, Kote Anjaneya temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman is built.

Upper Part
The upper part of Bellary fort is a polygonal walled building built during Vijaynagara period. It consists of numerous cisterns, citadel, cells and pools. Upper floor boasts number of water tanks. One has to reach the fort by a winding rocky path. The tunnel built here is said to link the cities of Sriragapatna and Mysore. The lower part now houses numerous government offices, public buildings, churches and educational institutions.

Nearby Attractions to Bellary Fort
Ambali
Located 10 km north-west of Kottur, Ambali is a great tourist delight. The place is famous for its black stone Chalukyan temple dedicated to Kalleswari.

Ramgad or Ramanadurga
Set amidst a group of granite hills, Ramgad is an ideal place for the nature lovers. The picturesque hill station mesmerizes the visitors with its immense scenic locales. Visit the majestic temple built here dedicated to Ramadeva.

Tunga Bhadra Dam
Built on the river Tunga and Bhadra, Tunga Bhadra is worth visiting place near Bellary fort. The dam has a beautiful manicured garden with several blossoming flowers.

Best Time to Visit
An ideal time to visit Bellary Fort is from October to March.

How to Reach
Air
The Bellary airport is the nearest airport
Rail
Bellary railway station is the nearest railhead, connecting important cities like Belgaumm, Bangalore, Tirupati, Raichuru, Hubali and many more