Bangalore Fort, Bangalore (2024) - Images, Timings

Bangalore Fort, Bangalore Overview

Originally built as a mud fort by Kempe Gowda I in 1537, Bangalore Fort was transformed into a stone fort by Haider Ali in 1761. Unfortunately, 20 years later, Bangalore Fort fell into the hands of the British and the entire fort was dismantled and reconstructed into schools, hospitals and roads etc. Today, only the ruins remain of what was once a stronghold of Tipu Sultan i.e. the Delhi Gate and two primary bastions. However, these ruins also reek of glory, splendour and magnificence. The fort premises include several structures which include Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace. Standing tall as an ancient heritage structure, the monument is one of the most popular attractions of the city.

Legend of Bangalore Fort

A famous legend attached to the fort goes on to say that when Kempe Gowda was getting the Southern Entrance of the fort built, the entrance would fall off immediately, as soon as it was constructed. The royal priests suggested a human sacrifice as a solution to the problem i.e. to ward off evil spirits, but Kempe Gowda I was against it. Finally, his daughter-in-law volunteered; she got her head cut off near the Southern Entrance. So when the construction of the fort was finally completed, Kempe Gowda got a temple built in the memory of his daughter-in-law in Koramangala.

History of Bangalore Fort

The construction of the Bangalore Fort began in 1537 as a mud fort by Kempe Gowda I. Later, Hyder Ali - father of Tipu Sultan- got the fort renovated into a stone fort in 1761. The fort stood as a strong point of defense for the royal army. Hyder Ali even captured several British officers and imprisoned them in the fort. In 1791, finally the British army under the leadership of Lord Cornwallis seized the fort after killing 2000 men. Soon after, the fort was dismantled and sections of it were turned into schools, hospitals, roads, churches etc.

Architecture of Bangalore Fort

The original fort with a one mile long fortification and a moat does not exist anymore. However, what exists is the majestic Delhi Gate and two bastions. The entrance is adorned with elaborate motifs and spectacular designs. Moving inside, you can spot the remains of an old Ganesh Temple that is currently deserted and do not function any longer. Near the entrance itself, you will find spiked doors that suggest guarded quarters. The campus also has some quarters for or rest areas for the guards and watchmen. However, most of these are shut and cannot be seen from outside.

Towards the left of the entrance, there is an open courtyard that has now been turned into a green lawn. The place has alcoves for the soldiers to sit and relax. Besides, the walls are all covered in carvings, some of which are the famous Hoysala symbols. A tunnel from here leads to the main gateway which can also be targeted from one of the bastions. This was done to keep a close watch on whoever was entering the fort. There is also a third gate in the fort that is kept closed.

How to Reach

Bangalore Fort is situated on the Krishna Rajendra Rd in New Tharagupet and can easily be reached by local means of transport. You can take an auto-rickshaw or a taxi or can reach here in a local state bus.