Yellur Fort
Sub Place Details: Yellur Fort, historically known as Rajhunsgad, is a formidable hilltop fortress that stands as a silent guardian over the city of Belagavi. Perched at an altitude of about 2,500 feet, the fort was built in the 12th century by Beechiraja of the Ratta Dynasty. Over the centuries, it has been a strategic prize, changing hands between the Yadavas, Hoysalas, Bahamanis, Adilshahis, and the Marathas. The fort served primarily as a watchtower and a defensive outpost for the main Belgaum Fort. Its location provides an unparalleled 360-degree view of the surrounding countryside, including the distant city lights of Belagavi and the rolling hills of the Western Ghats. The fort is relatively small but extremely well-preserved, with massive stone walls and bastions that reflect the military engineering of the medieval era. Inside the fort, there is a serene temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, which continues to be a site of worship for the villagers of Yellur and Sulga. The climb to the fort, whether by vehicle or on foot, is scenic, passing through lush fields and steep winding roads. In recent years, it has become a popular destination for "sundowner" trips, where visitors come to witness the sunset from the ramparts. The atmosphere at the fort is peaceful, offering a sharp contrast to the busy city below. The historical significance of the fort, combined with its accessibility, makes it one of the most visited spots in the district. It represents the martial heritage of the region and provides a sense of the strategic importance Belagavi held in South Indian history. :
General information
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Ideal Duration:
2 to 3 HoursPlace Type:
Heritage / Fort / ViewpointEntry Fees:
Sub Place Entry Fees:
Free Entry: Currently, there is no entry fee to visit Yellur Fort.
Parking: There is no formal parking fee, but visitors usually park near the temple area at the base or the top.Sub Place Entry Fees:
Free Entry: Currently, there is no entry fee to visit Yellur Fort.
Parking: There is no formal parking fee, but visitors usually park near the temple area at the base or the top.
:Timing:
Sub Place Timings:
Regular Timings: The fort is accessible from 7:00 AM to 6:30 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning for sunrise or from 4:30 PM onward for the sunset and cooler temperatures.Sub Place Timings:
Regular Timings: The fort is accessible from 7:00 AM to 6:30 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning for sunrise or from 4:30 PM onward for the sunset and cooler temperatures.
:Special Events:
Sub Place Special Event:
Shivaratri: Similar to other Shiva temples, Shivaratri is celebrated with great fervor and overnight prayers.
Maratha Heritage Days: Occasional cultural events are held here to commem...Sub Place Special Event:
Shivaratri: Similar to other Shiva temples, Shivaratri is celebrated with great fervor and overnight prayers.
Maratha Heritage Days: Occasional cultural events are held here to commemorate the Maratha rulers who once held the fort.
:Best Photo Spots:
Sub Place Best Photo Spots:
The Main Gateway: The massive stone arch of the entrance is perfect for historical-themed photography.
The Bastion Edge: Standing on the edge of the circular bastion provides a wid...Sub Place Best Photo Spots:
The Main Gateway: The massive stone arch of the entrance is perfect for historical-themed photography.
The Bastion Edge: Standing on the edge of the circular bastion provides a wide-angle view of the valley.
Inside the Temple: The simple stone architecture of the temple against the blue sky makes for a serene composition.
:Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Sub Place Things to Do:
Fort Walk: Walk along the entire perimeter of the fort walls to appreciate the medieval military architecture.
Temple Visit: Offer prayers at the Shiva Temple and enjoy the quiet spiritual atmosphere.
Sunset Watching: Secure a spot on the western bastions to witness one of the most beautiful sunsets in North Karnataka.
Photography: Capture the dramatic stone gateways and the sweeping views of the Yellur village below.
Picnicking: The open grassy areas inside the fort are perfect for a family snack break.
Local Interaction: Talk to the local priests or villagers to hear folk tales about the fort's various battles.
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Information
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Why Famous:
Why Famous Sub Place:
Rajhunsgad History: It is famous as the sentinel of Belagavi, with a history spanning over 800 years and multiple dynasties.
Panoramic Views: It offers the best sunset and sunrise views ...Why Famous Sub Place:
Rajhunsgad History: It is famous as the sentinel of Belagavi, with a history spanning over 800 years and multiple dynasties.
Panoramic Views: It offers the best sunset and sunrise views in the entire district, overlooking the vast Deccan plateau.
Strategic Importance: Its role as a crucial defensive outpost for the Belgaum Fort makes it a key site for history buffs.
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Architecture:
Sub Place Architecture:
The Stone Walls: The fort features massive laterite and granite walls that are still largely intact.
Gateways: The main entrance is a grand stone gateway designed to withstand sieges, ...Sub Place Architecture:
The Stone Walls: The fort features massive laterite and granite walls that are still largely intact.
Gateways: The main entrance is a grand stone gateway designed to withstand sieges, featuring heavy bastions on either side.
Dimensions: The fort encompasses an area of about 5 acres on the hilltop, with walls rising over 20 feet in some sections.
Religious Structure: The Shiva Temple inside is a simple yet elegant stone structure built in the typical Maratha-era style.
Strategic Bastions: There are circular bastions at the corners which provided a wide field of fire for the fort's defenders.
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How To Reach:
Sub Place How to Reach:
By Air: Belagavi Airport is the closest, about 25 KMS away.
By Train: Belagavi Railway Station is just 15 KMS from the fort.
By Road: One can drive th... -
Near Tourist Places:
Belagavi Fort (16 KM), Fort Lake (15 KM), Kamal Basti (16 KM), Military Mahadev Temple (14 KM), Ramakrishna Ashram (15 KM), Rakaskop Dam (22 KM), Jamboti Hills (30 KM), Vajrapoha Falls (45 KM), Gokak Falls (75 KM), Kittur Fort (40 KM).
Tourism Tips
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Sub Place Tourism Tips:
Health & Safety: The walls are high and do not always have railings; be extremely careful while walking on the edges.
Packing: Carry water as there are no shops at the top of the fort...
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