Makalidurga Hill & Fort
Sub Place Details: Makalidurga Hill and Fort is one of the most enchanting trekking destinations in the vicinity of Bangalore and Chikkaballapur. Standing at an elevation of about 1,117 meters, the hill is topped by the ruins of an ancient fort that whispers stories of the Vijayanagara Empire and su bsequent local rulers. The name "Makalidurga" is derived from the "Makali Beru" (a medicinal root) found in the region and "Durga," meaning fort. The trek to the top is moderately challenging, characterized by a path through granite boulders, tall grasses, and scrub forests. What makes this place unique is the view of the railway track that curves around the base of the hill, with trains snaking through the landscape—a sight that is a delight for photographers. The fort at the summit houses a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Nandi, where locals still perform rituals. The hill overlooks the vast Gundamagere Lake, which, from the top, remarkably resembles the map of South America. The history of the fort is a mix of legend and strategic warfare; it was used as a granary and a lookout point due to its commanding view of the surrounding plains. The climb takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your fitness level. Along the way, the air becomes cooler, and the panoramic views of the neighboring hills like Ghati Subramanya begin to unfold. This site is managed by the Karnataka Forest Department, ensuring that the trekking experience is organized and the natural ecosystem is protected. It is a perfect blend of history, spirituality, and adventure. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a history buff, Makalidurga offers a rewarding experience that stays with you long after the descent.
General information
-
Ideal Duration:
4 to 6 HoursPlace Type:
Trekking & Historical FortEntry Fees:
Sub Place Entry Fees:
Online Booking: Trekking requires a mandatory booking through the Karnataka Eco-Tourism website.
Adult Fee: Usually costs around Rs.250 per person.
Parking:Sub Place Entry Fees:
Online Booking: Trekking requires a mandatory booking through the Karnataka Eco-Tourism website.
Adult Fee: Usually costs around Rs.250 per person.
Parking: Nominal fees of Rs.30 for cars and Rs.10 for bikes at the forest check post.Timing:
Sub Place Timings:
Regular Timings: The trek is permitted from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Start the trek by 6:30 AM to reach the summit before the sun gets too harsh.
...Sub Place Timings:
Regular Timings: The trek is permitted from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Start the trek by 6:30 AM to reach the summit before the sun gets too harsh.
Last Entry: Entry is usually closed by 2:30 PM to ensure everyone returns before sunset.Special Events:
Sub Place Special Event:
Shivaratri Celebrations: A special puja is held at the summit temple during the festival of Maha Shivaratri, attracting many local devotees.
Community Trekking Events: Various adventu...Sub Place Special Event:
Shivaratri Celebrations: A special puja is held at the summit temple during the festival of Maha Shivaratri, attracting many local devotees.
Community Trekking Events: Various adventure clubs organize group treks during the winter solstice.Best Photo Spots:
Sub Place Best Photo Spots:
Railway Curve: The spot where the track curves at the base of the hill is the most photographed location.
The Summit Gateway: The ruined stone entrance provides a frame-within-a-fr...Sub Place Best Photo Spots:
Railway Curve: The spot where the track curves at the base of the hill is the most photographed location.
The Summit Gateway: The ruined stone entrance provides a frame-within-a-frame for the valley beyond.
Lake Viewpoint: Capturing the reflection of the sun on Gundamagere Lake from the highest point of the fort.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
-
Sub Place Things to Do:
Trekking: The primary activity is the 5-6 km round-trip trek through rocky terrain.
Photography: Capture the iconic shot of the train passing by the base of the hill.
History Exploration: Walk through the fort ruins and imagine the life of the soldiers who once guarded these walls.
Temple Visit: Pay respects at the ancient Shiva temple at the peak.
Bird Watching: Look for raptors and smaller scrub-land birds that inhabit the hill slopes.
Picnicking: Enjoy a packed lunch at the summit while soaking in the 360-degree views.
Railway
Photography: The railway station nearby is vi...
Information
-
Why Famous:
Why Famous Sub Place:
Railway Trek: It is famous for the unique experience of walking along the railway tracks for the first 2 kilometers of the trail.
Gundamagere Lake View: Known for the spectacular bird’...Why Famous Sub Place:
Railway Trek: It is famous for the unique experience of walking along the railway tracks for the first 2 kilometers of the trail.
Gundamagere Lake View: Known for the spectacular bird’s-eye view of the lake that looks like the South American continent.
Night Trekking History: Historically famous for night treks, though current forest regulations have restricted these for safety.
Spiritual Significance: The summit temple of Lord Shiva is a revered site for the local community. -
Architecture:
Sub Place Architecture:
Fortification and Temple Design: The Makalidurga Fort features traditional Vijayanagara-style military architecture. The walls are constructed using large, interlocking granite blocks without the use of mortar, a tech...Sub Place Architecture:
Fortification and Temple Design: The Makalidurga Fort features traditional Vijayanagara-style military architecture. The walls are constructed using large, interlocking granite blocks without the use of mortar, a technique known as dry masonry. The main gateway, though in ruins, shows remnants of defensive bastions.
Dimensions: The fort area at the summit covers approximately 3 to 4 acres. Within the fort, the Malleshwara Temple follows a simple Dravidian architectural style, featuring a small sanctum and a pillared porch. The stone carvings on the temple walls depict various Hindu deities and floral motifs common to the 16th-century era. -
How To Reach:
Sub Place How to Reach:
By Air: Nearest airport is Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), about 45 KMS from the hill base.
By Train: Take a local train from Bangalore City to Makalidurga Railway Station. Th... -
Near Tourist Places:
Ghati Subramanya Temple (12 km), Doddaballapur (15 km), Nandi Hills (38 km), Vidurashwatha (25 km), Gudibande Fort (45 km), Skandagiri (35 km), Devarayanadurga (50 km), Lepakshi (75 km), Muddenahalli (30 km), Srinivasa Sagara (32 km).
Tourism Tips
-
Sub Place Tourism Tips:
Health & Safety: Wear high-grip trekking shoes; do not venture off the marked path.
Packing: Carry at least 2 liters of water, energy bars, and a whistle.
Reviews
Information about New and Updated Locations(702+) of Karnataka Has Been Added :-
Card subtitle
Kudli Kunchikal FallsKundadri HillsKuvempu Kavi Mane Mandagadde Bird SanctuaryNagara FortSakrebyle Elephant CampShivappa Nayaka PalaceTyavarekoppa Lion SafariDarga Hazrath Mardane GaibGaganachukki FallsGaganachukki Falls View PointGanalu FallsHarekada Small FallsIgloor DamKaveri River View Point, SathyagalaKokkare Bellur Bird SanctuaryMalavalli Lake View PointMore PlacesNote:-
Information provided here in good Faith and for reference only.
All information and pictures will be updated soon, please keep visiting.
Near Places
Adiyogi Chikkaballapura
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Amruth Sarovara
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Avalabetta
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Dandiganahalli Dam
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Ghati Subramanya Temple
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Grover Zampa Vineyards
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Gudibande Fort
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Gummanayaka Fort
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Jakkalamadagu Dam
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewherein Other Cities