If you are interested in visiting the ancient forts built in south India, this blog presents you information about the Gingee fort, one of the prominent forts constructed in Tamil Nadu built in the 9th century. Read further to know a lot of captivating information about the fort and its forgotten history.
The Gingee Fort
Gingee Fort is a sprawling complex encompassing three majestic granite hills: Rajagiri, Krishnagiri, and Chandrayandurg. Let us ponder into its exact location, historic importance and a lot more fascinating information. All guests from Resort Hotels in Chennai who want adventure along with heritage should consider visiting Gingee Fort.
Location and Accessibility
Gingee Fort is situated in the Villupuram district of Tamil Nadu, India, approximately 157 km from Chennai. The most convenient way to reach the fort from Chennai is by driving, which takes about 3 hours and 13 minutes. The fort is open to visitors from 9 in the morning to 5 in the evening.
Historical Significance
The fort’s origins traces back to the 9th century when it was constructed by the Chola dynasty. It was later modified and developed by the Kurumbar kings and the Vijayanagar Empire. Gingee Fort was a strategic stronghold and witnessed battles between various empires, including the Marathas, Mughals, French, and British. Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj ranked it as one of the most impregnable fortress in India, and the British called it the “Troy of the East.” The fort was nominated for UNESCO’s World Heritage Site list in September 2024.
Architectural Marvel
Each hill boasts a separate citadel with its fortifications, palaces, and wells. The three hills are strategically connected by a network of walls and passages, creating a vast, triangular stronghold. Resort Coimbatore helps you to visit the important tourist spots in Coimbatore.
The fort features a multi-layered defense system, with granite blocks, bastions, and fortified gateways. Inside the fort, you can find intricate passageways, secret chambers, escape routes, granaries, and a rainwater harvesting system. Key structures within the fort include the Kalyana Mahal (a seven-story marriage hall), temples, and a massive granary carved into the rock face of Chandrayaan Durg. This fort can be included in your places to visit on a One Day Trip From Chennai.
Key Features and Attractions
- Rajagiri: The tallest hill with a citadel and the temple of Ranganatha. Originally known as Kamalagiri and Anandagiri, it stands at a height of approximately 800 feet (240 m) and was historically considered the most impregnable part of the fort.
- Krishnagiri: Situated to the north of Tiruvannamalai road, it’s smaller in size and height compared to Rajagiri. It features a flight of granite stone steps leading to the top. This hill is named after Krishna Kon. Resorts Near Mahabalipuram guides you to tour around all the important forts in and around Chennai along with a cozy stay.
- Venkataramana Swamy Temple: Located in the Lower Fort complex, adorned with intricate carvings. This temple, built in the 16th century by Muthialu Nayakan, is the largest temple in Gingee and is dedicated to Venkateshwara.
- Kalyana Mahal: An architectural jewel with eight stories, used as the royal ladies’ quarters. This seven-story marriage hall has a pyramidical shikhara on top, showcasing Indo-Islamic architectural style.
- Granary: A massive structure carved into the rock face of Chandrayaan Durg, used to store grain. The granary has granite walls about 2 meters wide and a roof in the shape of an arch.
- Secret passages and underground tunnels: These tunnels are used by the fort’s defenders to escape in times of siege. These tunnels offer a glimpse into the ingenuity of the fort’s builders.
- Panoramic views: The fort offers a stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The walls are punctuated by watchtowers and turrets, each offering scenic views.
Legends and Tales
The fort is associated with the tragic tale of Raja Desingh, a valiant ruler who fought against the Nawab of Arcot. The fort’s impregnability led the British to employ a large garrison to ensure it never fell into enemy hands. The fort has a perimeter of 13 km and encloses an area of 11 sq km. It has a sophisticated water supply system, ensuring a continuous water supply even at the highest points.
Other Forts Near Chennai To Visit
- Vellore Fort: Built in 1566 by the Vijayanagara rulers, it showcases the military architectural styles of Southern India. Uniquely, it houses a temple, a mosque, and a church within its walls. It briefly served as a safe house for Tipu Sultan.
- Fort Geldria: Constructed in 1613 by the Dutch East India Company in Pulicat, it was their first settlement in India. It’s one of the oldest Dutch forts in Tamil Nadu. Alamparai Fort Photos will last longer in the visitors’ memories. It is also called as the Chennai Fort.
- Manora Fort: Built by the Marathas in the 17th century, this fort overlooks the Bay of Bengal. It’s distinguished by its eight storeys and a hexagonal tower. You can also visit the nearby Sadras Dutch Fort, that takes 2 to 3 hours to reach from Chennai.
- Fort on Rock (Pallapatti): Located in Dindigul, this fort offers a different perspective as it’s built on a rock. Fort Geldria Photos are popular and it is another nearby fort to entertain its visitors.
- Fort St. David: Situated near Cuddalore, this former British fort is named after the Welsh patron saint. It was a crucial bastion for the British.
- Chandragiri Fort: Near Tirupati, this fort is actually a palace converted into a museum, showcasing stone carvings and weapons.
- Hameed Maraicar Fort: Located in Parangipettai, Cuddalore, this fort provides its visitors a glimpse into the region’s history.
- Fort Vandavasi: Located in Tiruvannamalai. Saint George Fort in Chennai is another forth which is worth mentioning, as it hosts the Tamil Nadu state assembly.
What Is Inside Gingee Queen Fort?
Krishnagiri, also known as the Queen’s Fort, is one of the three hills that make up the Gingee Fort complex. It’s smaller and lower in height than Rajagiri, the King’s Fort. You need to climb granite steps to lead you to the top. There are several mandapas (pillared halls), granary spaces, and two temples at the summit. One temple is dedicated to Lord Ranganatha and the other to Lord Shiva, featuring sculptures and decorated gopurams (temple towers). There’s also a throne chamber amidst these structures. It provides you with spectacular views of the surrounding areas.
In conclusion, Gingee Fort offers a captivating experience for visitors each year. It’s a fantastic destination to explore with friends and family, and children can learn a great deal from this architectural marvel of Tamil Nadu. The Gingee Fort Timings is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. Be sure to include this fort in your travel itinerary and enjoy your visit!