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Saturday, March 23, 2019

Forts of Karnataka - ಕರ್ನಾಟಕದ ಕೋಟೆಗಳು

"Forts are the Chief Protection of a Kingdom"
- Ramachandra Amatya (18th Century)

Forts are similar to our gated community and are built for to protect of the kingdom. The word 'Durga' (Fort in Kannada) originates from the Sanskrit word 'Durgam' meaning 'difficult to trespass', signifying the importance of a strategic site, a strong wall and a moat to make it an impregnable stronghold. The earliest reference to the fort can be found in Rigveda wherein a fortified city was referred to as a 'Pura'. According to Kautilya's Arthasthra, 'Fort' is the most significant aspect of any kingdom, the others being it's  King, Capital, Allies, Army, Ministry and the Treasury. Forts have always played a significant role in shaping the history of the world. The history of fort itself dates back to the 6th century BCE with the earliest references of fortified cities being Nineveh and Babylonia. Harappa, Mohenjodaro, Lothal, Sisupalgarh, Hastinapur, Indraprastha, Dwaraka, Kishkinda, Malhar and Rajim are some of the earliest forts built in India, some of whose links can be traced to the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. Sisupalgarh is the oldest standing/surviving fort in India which is situated close to the city of Bhubaneswar in Orissa.
Satavahanas built the earliest of forts in Karnataka between the period of 1st century BCE and 2nd century CE and their remnants have been found at Sannati, Aihole, Banavasi, Sagar (Gulbarga), Chandravalli (Chitradurga), etc. However, the first confirmed record of fort as per inscriptions is the fort at Badami built around 543 AD by Pulakeshi I. In India, the Deccan (Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and United Andhra Pradesh) undoubtedly dominates the other regions over the number of forts built.  About 3000 forts were built in this region of which majority of them still survive to narrate their story. At present, about 700 forts survive in Karnataka. This post includes the list of forts we have visited till today, some of which have already been described by us in our previous posts (to which link has been given).  Information with regards to the remaining forts will follow shortly in our subsequent posts.
Forts of Karnataka - ಕರ್ನಾಟಕದ ಕೋಟೆಗಳು
Forts of Karnataka - ಕರ್ನಾಟಕದ ಕೋಟೆಗಳು
There are many classifications of forts one of the most important Based on the type and area where the fort is built. Forts can be classified into 6 groups which are as follows:
1. Bhudurga or Nagardurga - City Fort or Land Fort - Bengaluru, Srirangapatnam 
2. Giridurga or Parvatadurga - Hill Fort - Madhugiri, Chitradurga 
3. Jaladurga - Fort surrounded by a Natural Water Body - Jaladurga, Malkhed 
4. Dhanavandurga - Desert Fort - None in Karnataka
5. Mahidurga - Mud Fort - Gottam Gutta, Hangal 
6. Vanadurga - Forest Fort - Ballalarayanadurga, Kanoor Kote 
There are many great Kannada literary works which speak volumes about the construction of forts.
A few to name are as follows:-
1. 'Sivatatva Ratnakara' by Sri Basava Bhupala
2. 'Ananthnath Puran' by Sri Jana 
3. 'Kumararamacharite' by Sri Nanjunda 
4. 'Mohan Tarangini' by Sri Kanakadasaru 
5. 'Pampaskhetra Vaaranam' by Sri Chandrakavi 
6. 'Amulabasava Charite' by Sri Singi Rajan 
7. 'Manasollasa' by Sri Someshwara III 
8.' Dhadmanatha Purana' by Sri Bahubali Panditha 
9. 'Vijayambudi Charite' by Sri Shrutikreethi 
10. 'Chennabasava Purana' by Sri Virupaksha Panditha 
11. 'Prabhulingaleele' by Sri Chamarasa and many more.

Forts of Karnataka: 
1. Badami Fort - ಬಾದಾಮಿ ಕೋಟೆ
  District: Bagalkot
  Type: Giridurga
  No. of tiers: 2
  Dynasty ruled: Badami Chalukyas, Pallavas, Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Tippu Sultan
Badami Fort, Karnataka
Badami Fort 
   District: Bagalkot
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:2
   Dynasty ruled: Badami Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas
Aihole Fort, Karnataka
Aihole Fort
 3. Nandidurga Fort- ನಂದಿದುರ್ಗ 
   District: Chikkaballapura 
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled: Gangas, Cholas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Kempegowda, Hyder Ali, Wodeyars, Marathas, British
Nandi Fort, Karnataka
Nandidurga Fort
 4. Shivagange Fort - ಶಿವಗಂಗೆ ಕೋಟೆ
    District: Bangalore rural
    Type: Giridurga
    No. of tiers:7
    Dynasty ruled: Gangas, Cholas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Hyder Ali, Wodeyars, Nadaprabhus, Marathas, British
Shivgange Fort, Karnataka
Shivagange Fort
 5. Chikkajala Fort - ಚಿಕ್ಕಜಾಲ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Bangalore rural
   Type: Bhudurga
   No of tier: 1
   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Hyder Ali, Wodeyars, Nadaprabhus
Chikkajala Fort, Karnataka
Chikkajala Fort
 6. Devanahalli Fort - ದೇವನನಹಳ್ಳಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Bangalore rural
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Gangas, Cholas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Hyder Ali, Wodeyars, Nadaprabhus
Devanahalli Fort, Karnataka
Devanahalli Fort
 7. Bhairavadurga Fort - ಭೈರವದುರ್ಗ
   District: Bangalore rural
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:5
   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Kempegowda, Hyder Ali, Wodeyars, Marathas
Bhairavadurga Fort, Karnataka
Bhairavadurga Fort
 8. Kundana Fort - ಕುಂದನ  ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Bangalore rural
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:4
   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Kempegowda, Hyder Ali, Wodeyars
Kundana Fort, Karnataka
Kundana Fort
 9. Bengaluru Fort - ಬೆಂಗಳೂರು ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Bangalore Urban
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Kempegowda, Hyder Ali, Wodeyars, Marathas, British
Bangalore Fort, Karnataka
Gajalakshmi, Bengaluru Fort
 10. Begur Fort  - ಬೇಗೂರು ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Bangalore Urban
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers: 2
   Dynasty ruled: Ganga, Nolambas, Cholas, Hoysalas, Wodeyars, Marathas
Begur Fort, Karnataka
Shree Panchalingeshwara Temple, Begur Fort
 11. Bettadasanapura Fort-ಬೆಟ್ಟದಾಸನಪುರ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Bangalore Urban
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:2
   Dynasty ruled: Ganga, Nolambas, Cholas, Hoysalas, Wodeyars
Bettadasapura Fort, Karnataka
Bettadasanapura Fort
12. Champakadhama  Fort - ಚಂಪಕಧಾಮ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Bangalore Rural
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Ganga, Nolambas, Cholas, Hoysalas, Wodeyars
Champakadhama Fort, Karnataka
Champakadhama  Fort
13. Belagavi Fort - ಬೆಳಗಾವಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Belagavi
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:2
   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Kadambas, Marathas, British
Belgaum Fort, Karnataka
Belagavi Fort
14. Torgal Fort - ಟೋರ್ಗಲ್ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Belagavi
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:4
   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Kadambas, Marathas, British
Torgal Fort, Karnataka
Torgal Fort
15. Hooli Fort - ಹೂಲಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Belagavi
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:4
   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Kadambas, Marathas, British
Hooli Fort, Karnataka
Shree Panchalingeshwara Temple, Hooli Fort
16. Ramdurga Fort - ರಾಮದುರ್ಗ
   District: Belagavi
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:2
   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Kadambas, Marathas, British
Ramdurga Fort, Karnataka
Ramdurga Fort
17. Sankeshwara Fort - ಸಂಕೇಶ್ವರ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Belagavi
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:2
   Dynasty ruled:Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Kadambas, Marathas, British
Sankeshwara Fort, Karnataka
Sankeshwara Fort
 18. Mudkavi Fort - ಮುದ್ಕವಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Belagavi
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:2
   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Kadambas, Marathas, British
Mudakavi Fort, Karnataka
Mudkavi Fort
 19. Halasi Fort- ಹಲಸಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Belagavi
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Kadambas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas
Halasi Fort, Karnataka
Shree Bhuvaraha Swamy Temple, Halasi Fort
 20. Gokak Fort- ಗೋಕಾಕ್ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Belagavi
   Type:Bhudurga
   No. of tiers: 1
   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Kadambas, Marathas, British
Gokak Fort, Karnataka
Shree Mahalingeshwara Temple, Gokak Fort
21. Halakundhi Fort - ಹಲಕುಂಧಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Bellary
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Palegars
Halakundi Fort, Karnataka
Halakundhi Fort
 22. Kenchanagudda Fort- ಕೆಂಚನಗುಡ್ಡ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Bellary
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas, Vijayanagar, Bahamanis, British
Kenchagudda Fort, Karnataka
Kenchanagudda Fort
 23. Kurugod Fort - ಕುರುಗೋಡು ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Bellary
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:5
   Dynasty ruled: Satavahanas, Badami Chalukyas, Sindhs of Kurugodu, Vijayanagar, Hyder Ali
Kurugod Fort, Karnataka
Kurugodu Fort

24. Nadivi Fort - ನಾಡಿವಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Bellary
   Type: Jaladurga
   No. of tiers:2
   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas, Vijayanagar, Palegars
Nadivi Fort, Karnataka
Nadivi Fort
 25. Gudekote Fort - ಗುಡೇಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Bellary
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:5
  Dynasty ruled: Satavahanas, Kadambas, Badami Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas,  Palegars of Hosamaledurga, Vijayanagar, Bahamani, Palegars, Hyder Ali, British
Gudekote Fort, Karnataka
Gudekote Fort
26. Ujjini Fort - ಉಜ್ಜಿನಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Bellary
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:2
   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas, Vijayanagar, Bahamanis, British
Ujjini Fort, Karnataka
Ujjini Fort
 27. Bellary Fort - ಬಳ್ಳಾರಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Bellary
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:7
  Dynasty ruled:  Maurya, Satavahanas, Badami Chalukyas, Sindhs of Kurugodu, Hoysalas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Vijayanagar, Bahamanis, Marathas, British
Bellary Fort, Karnataka
Bellary Fort
 28. Hampi Fort - ಹಂಪಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Bellary
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:7
  Dynasty ruled: Maurya, Satavahanas, Badami Chalukyas, Sindhs of Kurugodu, Hoysalas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Vijayanagar, Bahamanis, British
Hampi Fort, Karnataka
Hampi Fort
 29. Tekkalakote Fort - ಟೆಕ್ಕಲ್ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Bellary
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Sindhs of Kurugodu, Hoysalas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Vijayanagar, Bahamanis, British
Tekalkotte Fort, Karnataka
Tekalkotte Fort Entrance
30. Sandur Fort - ಸಂಡೂರ್ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Bellary
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:2
   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Bahamanis, Marathas, British, Gorpade
Sandur Fort, Karnataka
Sandur Gorge
 31. Hulikunte Fort - ಹುಲಿಕುಂಟೆ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Bellary
   Type: Giridurga + Vanadurga
   No. of tiers:5
   Dynasty ruled: Palegars
Hulikunte Fort, Karnataka
Hulikunte Fort

32. Hallikhed Fort - ಹಳ್ಳಿಖೇಡ ಕೋಟೆ  
   District: Bidar
   Type:  Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas, Bahamanis, British
Halkhed Fort, Karnataka
Hallikhed Fort
33. Rameshwara Fort-ರಾಮೇಶ್ವರ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Bidar
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas, Bahamanis, British
Rameshwara Fort, Karnataka
Rameshwara Fort
 34. Bidar Fort - ಬೀದರ್ ಕೋಟೆ 
  District: Bidar
  Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:3
  Dynasty ruled: Maurya, Satavahanas, Badami Chalukyas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Kakatiyas, Vijayanagar, Bahamanis, Bijapur Sultanate,Nizams, British
Bidar Fort, Karnataka
Bidar Fort
 35. Basavakalyan Fort - ಬಸವಕಲ್ಯಾಣ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Bidar
   Type: Giridurga
    No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Bahamanis, Kakatiyas, Bijapura Sultanate, Vijayanagar, Marathas, Nizams, British
BasavaKalyan Fort, Karnataka
Basavakalyan Fort
 36. Bhatambra Fort - ಭಾತಂಬ್ರ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Bidar
   Type: Bhudurga
    No. of tiers:2
   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Bahamanis, Kakatiyas, Bijapura Sultanate, Vijayanagar, Marathas, Nizams, British
Bhatambara Fort, Karnataka
Bhatambra Fort
37. Bhalki Fort - ಭಳ್ಕಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Bidar
   Type: Bhudurga
    No. of tiers:2
   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Bahamanis, Kakatiyas, Bijapura Sultanate, Vijayanagar, Marathas, Nizams, British
Bhalki Fort, Karnataka
Bhalki Fort
38. Bijapura Fort - ವಿಜಯಪುರ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Vijayapura
   Type: Bhudurga
    No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Bahamanis, Kakatiyas, Bijapura Sultanate, Vijayanagar, Marathas, Nizams, British
Vijapura Fort, Karnataka
Malik-I-Maidan, Bijapura Fort
 39. Bandallidurga Fort- ಬಂಡಳ್ಳಿದುರ್ಗ
   District: Chamrajanagar
   Type: Giridurga +Vanadurga
   No. of tiers: 3
   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Palegars, Tippu Sultan, Wodeyars, British
Bandallidurga Fort, Karnataka
Bandallidurga Fort
40. Gopalaswamy Betta Fort - ಗೋಪಾಲಸ್ವಾಮಿ ಬೆಟ್ಟ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Chamrajanagar
   Type: Giridurga +Vanadurga
   No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled:  Hoysalas, Vijayanagar
Gopalaswamy betta Fort, Karnataka
Gopalaswamy Betta Fort
41. Skandagiri Fort - ಸ್ಕಂದಗಿರಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Chikkaballapura
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled: Gangas, Cholas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Palegars, Tippu Sultan, Marathas, British
Skandagiri Fort, Karnataka
Skandagiri Fort
 42. Gummanayakanapalya Fort - ಗುಮ್ಮನಾಯಕನಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Chikkaballapura
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Tippu Sultan, Palegars
Gummanyakanakote Fort, Karnataka
Gummanayakanapalya Fort
 43. Varlakonda Fort - ವರ್ಲಕೊಂಡ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Chikkaballapura
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:3
   Dynasty ruled: Palegars
Varlakonda Fort, Karnataka
Varlakonda Fort
 44. Gudibande Fort - ಗುಡಿಬಂಡೆ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Chikkaballapura
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled: Gangas, Cholas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Palegars, Aurangzeb, Tippu Sultan
Gudibande Fort, Karnataka
Gudibande Fort
 45. Makalidurga Fort- ಮಾಕಳಿದುರ್ಗ 
   District: Chikkaballapura
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled: Nadaprabhus, Tippu Sultan, Wodeyars
Makalidurga Fort, Karnataka
Makalidurga Fort
 46. Channagiri Fort - ಚನ್ನಗಿರಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Chikkaballapura
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:3
   Dynasty ruled:Nadaprabhus, Tippu Sultan, Wodeyars
Channagiri Fort, Karnataka
Channagiri Fort
 47. Ambajidurga Fort - ಅಂಬಾಜಿದುರ್ಗ
   District: Chikkaballapura
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:5
   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Palegars, Tippu Sultan
Ambajidurga Fort, Karnataka
Ambajidurga Fort
48. Rehmangarh Fort-ರೆಹ್ಮಾನ್ಘಡ್ ಕೋಟೆ  
   District: Chikkaballapura
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:3
   Dynasty ruled: Palegars, Tippu Sultan, British
Rehmangarh Fort, Karnataka
Rehmangarh Fort
 49.  Hariharapura Fort - ಹರಿಹರಪುರ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District:Chikkaballapura
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers: 3
   Dynasty ruled:Vijayanagar, Palegars
Hariharapura fort, Karnataka
Hariharapura Fort
 50. Ballalarayana Durga Fort - ಬಲ್ಲಾಳರಾಯನ ದುರ್ಗ
   District: Chikmagalur
   Type: Vanadurga + Giridurga
   No. of tiers:3
   Dynasty ruled: Hoysalas
Ballalarayana Durga Fort, Karnataka
Ballalarayana Durga Fort
 51. Mullayanagiri Fort - ಮುಳ್ಳಯ್ಯನಗಿರಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Chikmagalur
   Type: Vanadurga + Giridurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Hoysalas
Mullayangiri Fort, Karnataka
Mullayanagiri Fort
 52. Brahmagiri Fort - ಬ್ರಹ್ಮಗಿರಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Chitradurga
   Type: Giridurga
   No of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled: Maurya, Satavahanas, Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Nayakas of Chitradurga
Brahmagiri Fort, Karnataka
Brahmagiri Fort
 53. Ramdurga Fort - ರಾಮದುರ್ಗ 
   District: Chitradurga
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:2
   Dynasty ruled: Nayakas of Chitradurga
Ramdurga Fort, Karnataka
Ramadurga Fort
54. Chitradurga Fort - ಚಿತ್ರದುರ್ಗ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Chitradurga
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:7
  Dynasty ruled: Satavahanas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Nayakas of Chitradurga, Hyder Ali, British
Chitradurga Fort, Karnataka
Chitradurga Fort
 55. Imangala Fort- ಐಮಂಗಳ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Chitradurga
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:2
   Dynasty ruled: Nayaks of Chitradurga, Tippu Sultan, British
Imangala Fort, Karnataka
Imangala Fort
 56. Jatinga Rameshwara Fort- ಜಟಿಂಗ ರಾಮೇಶ್ವರ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Chitradurga
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:3
   Dynasty ruled: Maurya, Satavahanas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Nayakas of Chitradurga
Jatinga Rameshwara Fort, Karnataka
Jating Rameshwara Fort
 57. Narasimhaghada Fort- ನರಸಿಂಹಘಢ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Dakshina Kannada 
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:3
   Dynasty ruled: Alupa, Tippu Sultan, British
Narasimhaghada Fort, Karnataka
Narasimhaghada Fort
 58. Kanakuppa Fort - ಕಣಕುಪ್ಪ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Davangere
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:3
   Dynasty ruled: Nayakas of Chitradurga
Kanakkuppa Fort, Karnataka
Kanakuppa Fort
 59. Huchangidurga Fort - ಹುಚoಗಿದುರ್ಗ
   District: Davangere
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers: 7
   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Nayakas of Chitradurga, Palegars, Tippu Sultan, British
Unchangidurga Fort, Karnataka
Uchangidurga Fort
 60. Garbhagudi Fort - ಗರ್ಭಗುಡಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Davanagere
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers: 1
   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas, Palegars
Garbhagudi Fort, Karnataka
Garbhagudi Fort
61. Dharwad Fort - ಧಾರವಾಡ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Dharwad
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers: 3
   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Bijapur Sultanate, Marathas, British
Dharwad Fort, Karnataka
Shree Narayana Swamy Temple, Dharwad Fort
 62. Dambal Fort - ಡಂಬಲ್ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Gadag
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Bijapur Sultanate, Marathas, British
Dambal Fort, Karnataka
Dambal Fort
 63. Malkhed Fort - ಮಲಖೇಡ್ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Gulbarga
   Type: Jaladurga
   No. of tiers:2
   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Bahamanis, Bijapur Sultanate, Nizams, British
Malkhed/ Manyakheta Fort, Karnataka
Malkhed/ Manyakheta Fort
 64. Gulbarga Fort - ಕಲ್ಬುರ್ಗಿ ಕೋಟೆ  
   District: Gulbarga
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled:Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Bahamanis, Bijapur Sultanate, Nizams, British
Gulbarga Fort, Karnataka
Gulbarga Fort
 65. Sedam Fort - ಸೇಡಂ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Gulbarga
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Bahamanis, Bijapur Sultanate, Nizams
Sedam Fort, Karnataka
Bananti Khamba, Sedam Fort
 66. Gottamgotta Fort - ಗೊಟ್ಟಂಗೊಟ್ಟ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Gulbarga
   Type: Mahidurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Satavahanas, Badami Chalukyas, Kalyani Chalukyas
Gottam Gotta Fort
Shree Eshwara Temple, Gottam Gotta Fort
 67. Handarki Fort - ಹಂಡರ್ಕಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Gulbarga
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Kakatiyas
Handarki Fort, Karnataka
Handarki Fort
 68. Maharajanadurga Fort - ಮಹಾರಾಜನದುರ್ಗ 
   District: Hassan
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled: Palegars, Tippu Sultan, British
Maharajanadurga Fort, Karnataka
Maharajanadurga Fort
69. Garudanagiri Fort - ಗರುಡನಗಿರಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Hassan
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled: Hoysalas, Palegars, Tippu Sultan
Garudanagiri Fort, Karnataka
Garudanagiri Fort
 70. Banavara Fort - ಬಾಣವಾರ ಕೋಟೆ  
   District: Hassan
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:2
   Dynasty ruled: Hoysalas, Palegars
Banavara Fort, Karnataka
Banavara Fort
 71. Haranahalli Fort - ಹಾರನಹಳ್ಳಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Hassan
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Hoysalas
Haranahalli Fort, Karnataka
Haranahalli Fort Mahadwara
72. Shravanabelagola Fort - ಶ್ರವಣಬೆಳಗೊಳ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Hassan
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Maurya, Gangas, Hoysalas
Shravanabelagola Fort, Karnataka
Shravanabelagola Fort, Chandragiri
 73. Manjarabad Fort- ಮಂಜರಾಬಾದ್  ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Hassan
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Hoysalas, Tippu Sultan
Manjirabad Fort, Karnataka
Manjirabad Fort (PC: Abhiram Shanubhog)

74. Nuggehalli Fort - ನುಗ್ಗೇಹಳ್ಳಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Hassan
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Hoysalas
Nuggehalli Fort
Nuggehalli Fort Gateway
 75. Hangal Fort - ಹಾನಗಲ್ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Haveri
   Type: Mahidurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Kadambas, Badami Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Hangal Kadambas
Hangal Fort, Karnataka
Shree Veerabhadra Temple, Hangal Fort
 76. Bankapura Fort - ಬಂಕಾಪುರ ಕೋಟೆ  
   District: Haveri
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:3
   Dynasty ruled: Kadambas, Badami Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Hangal Kadambas
Bankapura Fort, Karnataka
Shree Nagareshwara Temple, Bankapura Fort
77. Tekal Fort  - ಟೇಕಲ್ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Kolar
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Palegars
Tekal Fort, Karnataka
Terrain of Tekal Fort
78. Paparajanahalli Fort - ಪಾಪರಾಜನಹಳ್ಳಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Kolar
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:3
   Dynasty ruled: Ganga, Cholas, Hoysalas, Palegars
Paparajanahalli Fort, Karnataka
Paparajanahalli Fort
 79. Avani Fort - ಅವಣಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Kolar
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:3
   Dynasty ruled: Ganga, Cholas, Hoysalas, Palegars
Avani Fort, Karnataka
Avani Fort Entrance
 80. Mulbagal Fort - ಮುಳಬಾಗಿಲು ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Kolar
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled: Ganga, Cholas, Hoysalas, Palegars, Vijayanagar, Tippu Sultan
Mulbagalu Fort, Karnataka
Mulbagal Fort
 81. Virupakshi Fort - ವಿರುಪಾಕ್ಷಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Kolar
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers: 1
   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar
Virupakshi Fort, Karnataka
Virupakshi Fort
 82. Kurudumale Fort - ಕುರುಡುಮಲೆ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Kolar
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:3
   Dynasty ruled: Ganga, Cholas, Hoysalas, Palegars, Vijayanagar
Kurudumale Fort, Karnataka
Kurudumale Fort
 83. Kanakagiri Fort - ಕನಕಗಿರಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Koppal
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Palegars
Kanakagiri Fort, Karnataka
Kanakagiri Fort
 84. Anegundi Fort-ಆನೆಗುಂಡಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Koppal
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled:Vijayanagar, Bahamanis, British
Anegundi Fort, Karnataka
Anegundi Fort
 85. Koppal Fort - ಕೊಪ್ಪಳ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Koppal
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled: Badami Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Bahamanis, Marathas, Tippu Sultan, British
Koppal Fort, Karnataka
Koppal Fort
 86. Madkeri Fort - ಮಡಿಕೇರಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Madkeri/ Kodagu
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Raja of Madkeri, Tippu Sultan, British
Madkeri Fort, Karnataka
Royal Tombs of Raja of Madkeri 
 87. Narayanadurga Fort - ನಾರಾಯಣದುರ್ಗ 
   District: Mandya
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:5
   Dynasty ruled: Hoysalas, Palegars
Narayanadurga Fort, Mandya, Karnataka
Narayanadurga Fort
 88. Melukote Fort - ಮೇಲುಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Mandya
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers: 3
   Dynasty ruled: Gangas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Wodeyars, Marathas, Tippu Sultan
Melukote Fort, Karnataka
Melukote Fort
 89. Srirangapatna Fort - ಶ್ರೀರಂಗಪಟ್ಟಣ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Mandya
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:3
   Dynasty ruled: Gangas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Wodeyars, Marathas, Tippu Sultan, British
Srirangapatna Fort, Karnataka
Shree Ranganathaswamy Temple, Srirangapatnam
90. Mysore Fort- ಮೈಸೂರು ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Mysore
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:2
   Dynasty ruled: Gangas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Wodeyars, Marathas, Tippu Sultan, British
Mysore Fort, Karnataka
Mysore Palace, Mysore Fort
 91. Bettadapura Fort - ಬೆಟ್ಟದಪುರ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Mysore
   Type: Giridurga+ Vanadurga
   No. of tiers:5
   Dynasty ruled: Gangas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Wodeyars, British
Bettadapura Fort, Karnataka
Bettadapura Fort
 92. Raichur Fort - ರಾಯಚೂರು ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Raichur
   Type: Giridurga+ Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Kakatiyas, Bahamanis, Vijayanagar, Bijapur Sultanate, Mughals, Nizam
Raichur Fort, Karnataka
Raichur Fort
 93. Jalamangala Fort- ಜಲಮಂಗಳ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Ramanagar
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:3
   Dynasty ruled: Nadaprabhus, Hyder Ali
Jalamangala Fort, Karnataka
Jalamangala
 94. Kabbaladurga Fort - ಕಬ್ಬಾಳದುರ್ಗ
   District: Ramanagar
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled: Palegars, Nadaprabhus, Hyder Ali, British
Kabbaladurga Fort, Karnataka
Kabbaladurga Fort
 95. Ramanagar Fort - ರಾಮನಗರ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Ramanagar
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:5
   Dynasty ruled:Gangas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Nadaprabhus, Hyder Ali, Marathas, British
Ramanagar Fort, Karnataka
Ramanagar Fort
 96. Hutridurga Fort - ಉತ್ತರಿದುರ್ಗ 
   District: Ramanagar
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:8
   Dynasty ruled: Nadaprabhus, Palegars
Hurtridurga Fort, Karnataka
Huthridurga Fort
 97. Magadi Fort - ಮಾಗಡಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Ramanagar
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Nadaprabhus, Palegars
Magadi Fort, Karnataka
Gopuram of Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Magadi Fort
 98. Savanadurga Fort - ಸಾವನದುರ್ಗ 
   District: Ramanagar
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled: Gangas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Nadaprabhus, Hyder Ali, Marathas, British
Savanadurga Fort, Karnataka
Savanadurga Fort
 99. Hosadurga Fort - ಹೊಸದುರ್ಗ 
   District: Ramanagar
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:5
   Dynasty ruled: Nadaprabhus, Palegars, Wodeyars
Hosadurga Fort, Karnataka
Hosadurga Fort
 100. Nagara Fort - ನಗರ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Shivamogga
   Type: Vanadurga
   No. of tiers:3
   Dynasty ruled: Keladi
Nagara Fort, Karnataka
Nagara Fort
101. Kavaledurga Fort - ಕವಲೇದುರ್ಗ 
   District: Shivamogga
   Type: Vanadurga + Giridurga
   No. of tiers:3
   Dynasty ruled: Keladi
Kavaledurga Fort, Karnataka
Kavaledurga Fort
 102. Ikkeri Fort- ಇಕ್ಕೇರಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Shivamogga
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Keladi
Ikkeri Fort, Karnataka
Ikkeri Fort
 103. Kodachadri Fort - ಕೊಡಚಾದ್ರಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Shivamogga
   Type: Vanadurga + Giridurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Keladi
Kodachadri Fort, Karnataka
Shree Sankaracharya Temple, Kodachadri Fort
 104. Pavagada Fort - ಪಾವಗಡ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled: Nolambas, Gangas, Hoysalas, Palegars, Hyder Ali, British
Pavagada Fort, Karnataka
Pavagada Fort
 105. Nidgal Fort- ನಿಡಗಲ್  ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled: Nolambas, Gangas, Hoysalas, Palegars, Hyder Ali, British
Nidugal Fort, Karnataka
Nidgal Fort
 106. Bhasmangi Fort-  ಭಸ್ಮಾoಗಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:3 
   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Nayakas, Hyder Ali, Marathas, British

Bhasmangi Fort
 107. Madhugiri Fort - ಮಧುಗಿರಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Nayakas, Hyder Ali, Marathas, British
Madhugiri Fort, Karnataka
Madhugiri Fort
 108. Sira Fort- ಶಿರಾ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:2
   Dynasty ruled: Nayakas, Bijapur Sultanate, Mughal, Marathas, Hyder Ali, British
Sira Fort, Karnataka
Sira Fort
 109. Hulukudi Fort - ಹುಲುಕುಡಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers: 5
   Dynasty ruled: Ganga, Cholas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Palegar
Hulukudi Fort, Karnataka
Hulukudi Fort
 110. Midigeshi Fort - ಮಿಡಿಗೇಶಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Giridurga
   No of tiers:5
   Dynasty ruled: Palegars, Marathas, Tippu, Wodeyars, British
Midigeshi Fort, Karnataka
Midigeshi Fort
 111. Channarayanadurga Fort - ಚನ್ನರಾಯನದುರ್ಗ 
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled: Palegars, Marathas, Tippu, Wodeyars, British
Channarayanadurga Fort, Karnataka
Channarayanadurga Fort
 112. Nijagal Fort - ನಿಜಗಲ್ಲು ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled: Gangas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Nadaprabhus, Marathas, Tippu Sultan, British
Nijagal Fort, Karnataka
Nijagal Fort
 113. Devarayanadurga Fort - ದೇವರಾಯನದುರ್ಗ 
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Nadaprabhus, Palegars, Tippu Sultan, British
Devarayanadurga Fort, Karnataka
Devarayanadurga Fort
 114. Hikkalappana Betta Fort - ಹಿಕ್ಕಳಪ್ಪನ ಬೆಟ್ಟ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:3
   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Nadaprabhus, Palegars
Tumkur Fort, Karnataka
Rock Cut Steps, Hikkalappana Betta
 115. Huliyurdurga  Fort - ಹುಲಿಯೂರುದುರ್ಗ 
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:5
   Dynasty ruled: Nadaprabhus, Palegars
Huliyurdurga Fort, Karnataka
Huliyurdurga Fort
 116. Tumkooru  Fort - ತುಮಕೂರು ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:5
   Dynasty ruled: Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Marathas
Tumkooru Fort, Karnataka
Tumkooru Fort
 117. Kunigal Fort - ಕುಣಿಗಲ್ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Tumkooru
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled:Gangas, Cholas, Hoysalas
Kunigal Fort, Karnataka
Kunigal Fort Entrance
 118. Barkur  Fort - ಬರ್ಕುರ್ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Udupi
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Alupa, Vijayanagar, Tippu, British
Barkur Fort, Karnataka
Barkur Fort
 119. Kaup  Fort - ಕಾಪು ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Udupi
   Type: Jaladurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Alupa, Vijayanagar, Tippu, British
Kaup Fort, Udupi, Karnataka
Kaup Fort
 120. Banavasi  Fort - ಬನವಾಸಿ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Uttara Kannada
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers:1
   Dynasty ruled: Satavahanas, Kadambas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagar, Sonda Kings
Banavasi Fort, Karnataka
Shree Madhukeshwara Temple Complex, Banavasi Fort
 121. Mirjan Fort - ಮಿರ್ಜಾನ್ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Uttara Kannada
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers: 3 
   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Keladi, Bijapur Sultanate, Portuguese
Mirjan Fort, Karnataka
Mirjan Fort

122. Yadgir Fort - ಯಾದಗಿರಿ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Yadgir
   Type: Giridurga
   No. of tiers:7
   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas,Yadavas, Bahamanis, Adil Shahi, Nizam
Yadgir Fort, Karnataka
Yadgir Fort
 123. Gurmitkal Fort - ಗುರ್ಮಿಟ್ಕಲ್ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Yadgir
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers: 1
   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas
Ghurmitkal Fort, Karnataka
Stepped Well, Gurmitkal Fort
 124. Shahapura Fort - ಶಹಾಪುರ ಕೋಟೆ
   District: Yadgir
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers: 5
   Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas, Adil Shahis, British
Shahapura Fort, Karnataka
Shahapura Fort

125. Shorapura Fort - ಶೋರಾಪುರ ಕೋಟೆ 
   District: Yadgir
   Type: Bhudurga
   No. of tiers: 2
   Dynasty ruled: Vijayanagar, Bahamanis, British
Shorapura fort, Karnataka
Shree Venugopalaswamy Kalyani, Shorapura Fort
 126. Achaludurga - ಅಚ್ಚಲುದುರ್ಗ 
District: Ramanagar 
Type: Giridurga
No of tiers: 3
Dynasty ruled: Nadaprabhus, British
Achaludurga fort, Karnataka
Achaludurga Fort
127. Avathi - ಆವತಿ
District: Bengaluru Rural
No of tiers: 1
Dynasty  Ruled: Hoysalas, Avathi Nadaprabhus, Yelhanka Nadaprabhus, Wodeyars
Avathi Fort
128. Savanur - ಸವಣೂರು
District: Haveri
No of tiers: 1
Dynasty ruled: Kalyani Chalukyas, Bahamanis, Savanur Nawabs 
Savanur fort 
129. Koratagere - ಕೋರಟಗೆರೆ
District: Tumkooru 
No of tiers: 3
Dynasty ruled: Holvanahalli Palegars, Wodeyars, Marathas, Tippu Sultan
Koratagere Fort
130. Talavadi - ತಾಳವಾಡಿ 
District: Ramanagara
No of Tiers: 7
Dynasty Ruled: Nadaprabhus
Talavadi Fort
131. Koonagal-ಕೋನಗಲ್
District: Ramanagara
No of Tiers:3
Dynasty Ruled: Nadaprabhus
Maruti Temple, Koongal Betta
Koonagal Fort

There are many other forts in Karnataka which are yet to be explored by us and the above list will be updated regularly. We are glad to share that this post also marks our 9th anniversary of blogging!!!

References
1. Karnataka Gazetteer's
2. Journeys across Karnataka
3. ಬಳ್ಳಾರಿ ಜಿಲ್ಲೆಯ ಕೋಟೆಗಳು - Dr.M.Kotresh

Related Posts: 
1.101 interesting places to visit near Bangalore within 125 km
2.Top 100 Must Visit Lesser Known Temples of Karnataka - Part II
3.Top 50 Must Visit Lesser Known Temples of Karnataka

12 comments:

  1. Congratulations on 9th Anniversary of your blog. Very informative post on Forts of Karnataka.Keep Blogging.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Thumbs up 👍 Very good collection of information on travel. I have been an active follower of your blogs 🙂👌

    ReplyDelete
  3. Excellent job, Dhiraj! This is such a comprehensive list.

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  4. The number of forts, and the different styles, is fascinating. You've done valuable work cataloging the forts you've visited.

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  5. Pl post korlahalli fort and Singanallur fort.. Photos... There is also a white mud fort in belagaum surroundings. Pl post photos....

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you Sir, Sure we will update this post with photos, once we visit the above mentioned forts.

      Delete
  6. ಚಂದ್ರಗುತ್ತಿ ಕೋಟೆ ಮಿಸ್ ಆಗಿದೆ

    ReplyDelete
  7. Houdu, yet to visit Chandragutti Fort, long time pending.

    ReplyDelete