Chitradurga was called by many names and was termed Chitaldrug during the British reign. Afterwards, the name was changed to Chitradurga. The place is an ultimate feast for your eyes and soul too. It is situated in the valley of the River Vedavati and showcases picturesque landscape. The place was named after a lifted hill shaped like an umbrella found here.
The place is popular for stone fortresses. According to the Indian mythological book Mahabharata, an evil named Hidimba and her sister Hidimbi used to live here. The sister of this evil was good at heart and he was simply an atrocious one.
While Pandavas were in their course of exile, Bhima encountered this monster and killed him. He then married Hidimbi and had a magical and powerful son named Ghatotkacha who also played a role during the Great War against Kauravas.
A picturesque sight for the tourists
The pictorial elegance of the place arrests viewers and simple make them spellbound. The valley, the high standing rocks and hills, the vivid beauty, the touch of history, all these are enough reasons why people come from all over the world to visit this place. Apart from all the sightseeing options inside Chitradurga, there are many others located nearby that becomes another reason why people plan a visit here.
Sightseeing in and around Chitradurga
There are many places worth visiting in Chitradurga. The beauty and the history of this place surprises and also accelerate a large number of tourists here. Here are some places in and around Chitradurga you cannot overlook.
Chitradurga Fort
Between 17th and 18th century the fort came into existence. There were many different rulers, ruling Chitradurga and transforming the fort. But the credit for expanding the fort goes to Hyder Ali and his son Tipu Sultan because during their reign the fort was transformed into a much better version. There is a citadel, temples, storage place for grain and oil and also facility for rainwater harvesting too. Masjid was added to the fort during Hyder Ali’s reign.
Inside the fort, Chitradurga Image courtesy Pavithrah
Hidimbeshwar Temple
This temple is located inside the Chitradurga fort and of great mythological importance. There is a kettle drum inside this temple which is said to be the property of Bheem. The temple is actually carved out of a rock and in itself a great wonder. The temple highlights the Dravidian culture. This temple is the oldest temple among the 20 other existing in the fort.
Vani Vilas Sagar Dam
The dam is 32 km away from Chitradurga but simply worth the travel. It is a popular picnic spot for people. It is constructed using modern day engineering techniques. The view is endearing and at the same time peaceful too. If you wish to visit a mixture of architectural skills and beauty, you must visit this place.
Vani Vilas Sagar Dam. Image courtesy Urdangaray
Davanagere
This place is located at a distance of 61 km from Chitradurga. The place is famous for Sri Anjaneya Swami Temple. The artistry and the refining work the temple portrays will surely intrigue you. People visit this place with great trust and hope.
Shimoga
This place is situated around 107 km from Chitradurga. The place is known for waterfalls, dense forests and soothing weather. It is rich in flora and fauna too. The forests here are a huge producer of teak, exotic timber, sandalwood, rosewood, etc. There are many fruit bearing plantation also cultivated here like that of mangoes and jackfruit.
Kavishaila Theerthahalli, Shimoga. Image courtesy HP Nadig
How to reach Chitradurga
For all those who wish to visit this place, here is how to get here by different transport mediums.
By air
There are two airports near to Chitradurga, the first one is the Hubli Airport which is approx 186 km away and the second one is the Bangalore International Airport which is 197 km away. Buses and trains are available from there to reach the place
By rail
The place possesses its own railway station named Chitradurga railway station. The station is connected to major cities of the country. It will be more feasible to come down to the city like Bangalore and then take a train from there to Chitradurga. There are taxis available at the station.
By road
The city bus stop shows connectivity from all the major cities. One can easily take a bus and reach this place. Both KSRTC buses and private buses are available. Taxis are available from there to take you to a hotel or for sightseeing.
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