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Madhugiri is a town located in the Tumkur district of Karnataka and surrounded by the Thimmalapura forest. The name translates to "honey-hill," derived from the honeybee colonies that once thrived here. The town is famous for the Madhugiri Hill Fort, which stands at an elevation of 3,930 feet and is recognised as one of Asia's largest monolithic rock formations. Built in the 17th century by the Vijayanagara dynasty under Raja Hire Gowda, the fort was later strengthened by Hyder Ali and Tippu Sultan during the 18th century. It served as a crucial stronghold for the Mysore rulers and was seized by the British in 1791 during the Anglo-Mysore Wars. The fort bore witness to numerous battles and played a significant role in the resistance against the British during the Indian freedom struggle.
The Madhugiri Fort trek will take you to the summit of the second-largest monolith in Asia. As you ascend, you will be captivated by the imposing rock dome upon which the ancient fort stands. This trek is a favourite among daring travellers, offering the chance to delve into the rich history of the area while being awed by the extraordinary vistas that unfold before you. Traversing through three formidable defence walls or gateways, each gateway presents the illusion of being the ultimate destination, only for the true fortress to reveal itself after passing through the third gateway, culminating in a truly awe-inspiring experience.
The trek offers a close-up view of the unique architecture, showcasing the use of granite stones in the fort's construction. The fort includes gateways, walls, bastions, and watchtowers, serving as an excellent example of military architecture. It is surrounded by seven concentric walls, each with gates and enclosures, and the walls are so steep that they would be nearly impossible for an enemy to scale.
The fort also features a massive entrance known as the ‘Diddibagilu’ or the ‘Gate of Hell’, which is about 25 feet high and 17 feet wide and contains a series of chambers. Another interesting feature is the visible rainwater harvesting system, with small canals dug out on the hill connecting to a pond at the entrance. This system is still operational, and during the monsoon season, the pond is filled with rainwater collected from the hill.
The trek is not suitable for beginners. It is recommended for intermediate and experienced trekkers. Be well-prepared, as the trail is quite challenging due to the steep slopes in some sections. The trek takes about 2-3 hours to complete, covering a distance of around 3.5 km. We recommend starting the trek early in the morning to catch the sunrise. Try to reach the peak by 11 am to avoid the intense midday sun.
The Madhugiri fort trek is best done beyween September and February, especially after the monsoon season when the Thimmalapura Forest is at its lushest. The post-monsoon period offers breathtaking greenery, making it the perfect time to experience the trek. It's recommended to avoid the monsoon season due to heavy rainfall, which can make crossing the steep sections quite challenging.
Don't underestimate the sun's intensity, so protect yourself with sunblock, a well-fitted hat with a visor, and sunglasses. Opt for sturdy trekking shoes to ensure sure footing. Pack essential first aid, along with snacks, energy bars, and water for a well-prepared journey.
Madhugiri is just 107 kilometers northwest of Bengaluru in Tumkur district. The Bengaluru International Airport, located just 100 kilometers away, serves as the nearest air travel hub. For those arriving by train, the Gauribidanur railway station is the closest, situated a short 37 kilometers from Madhugiri.
