Bangalore Fort, a Step Back in Time (2024)

Step back in time with a visit to Bangalore Fort, a historic gem in the heart of the bustling city. Explore the rich tapestry of Bangalore’s past as you wander through this iconic fortification’s ancient stone walls and imposing ramparts. Uncover tales of conquest and valour as you immerse yourself in the fascinating history of this architectural marvel. From its humble beginnings as a mud fort to its grandeur as a symbol of power and resilience, Bangalore Fort has stood the test of time, bearing witness to centuries of dynasties and cultural shifts.

Could you imagine that Bangalore boasts its very own fort? Indeed, nestled in the heart of the city lies a remarkable piece of history. Bangalore Fort stands as a hidden gem, a must-visit for history enthusiasts and fort aficionados alike. Recently, as I’ve been delving into the treasures of my hometown, I embarked on a journey to explore Bangalore Fort and Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace. Conveniently located within walking distance of each other, these landmarks offer a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich heritage and can be comfortably explored in just a few hours.

PIN for later reference – Bangalore Fort, a Step Back in Time

This article may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. For complete information, please see our affiliate disclaimer here.

About Bangalore Fort

Originally erected as a mud fort in 1537 by Kempe Gowda I, the chief of the Vijayanagara Empire and the visionary behind the founding of Bangalore city, Bangalore Fort underwent significant transformations over the centuries. In 1761, Hyder Ali replaced the rudimentary mud fort with a formidable stone structure, later further fortified and embellished by his son, Tipu Sultan, in the 18th century. However, the fort’s storied history includes its capture by the British East India Company forces during the Third Mysore War in 1791.

Reflecting the military architecture of the 18th century, Bangalore Fort once boasted a bustling fortified town surrounding its perimeter. Within its confines stood diverse structures, including the Fort Church, Victoria Hospital, Kote Venkataramana Swamy Temple, Tipu Sultan’s Palace, Makkala Koota Park, a cemetery, a school, and eight gates.

Notably, Kempe Gowda I also commissioned the construction of another formidable fort at Uttari Betta.

However, much of the original architecture within Bangalore Fort has succumbed to the passage of time, with only remnants remaining today. The imposing Delhi Gate, remnants of two bastions, and an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha are among the surviving features. The Tipu Sultan’s Palace, once part of the fort’s complex, now stands as a separate entity, a short distance away, preserving its unique history and architectural legacy.

For an optimal experience, consider planning your visit to the fort in the morning when crowds are thinner and the weather is typically more agreeable. Additionally, aiming for a visit during the winter season, spanning from December to February, is advisable to escape the sweltering heat and fully enjoy exploring this historical site.

Legend of Bangalore Fort

Legend has it that the southern entrance gate collapsed immediately after completion during the fort’s construction. In a desperate attempt to ensure its smooth construction, priests purportedly advised human sacrifice. However, Kempe Gowda vehemently opposed such practices.

Nevertheless, one fateful night, his daughter-in-law fled and took her own life by beheading herself near the southern gate. It’s said that she had overheard the priests’ suggestion and made the ultimate sacrifice in her desire to alleviate her father-in-law’s burdens. Following the fort’s completion, Kempe Gowda erected a temple in Koramangala in her memory.

Please note: While this tale is widely recounted, there is no documented evidence to substantiate its veracity.

Visitor Information

• The fort welcomes visitors daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, offering ample time for exploration.
• Entrance to Bangalore Fort is free of charge, allowing everyone to enjoy its historical significance.
• Feel free to capture memories through videos and photographs; however, using tripods or camera stands is prohibited within the premises.
• For commercial video shoots and pre-wedding photography, it’s necessary to obtain permission from the Film Facilitation Office (FFO).
• A brief 30-minute stroll is typically sufficient for the fort’s remaining features.
• Situated amidst the bustling streets of KR Market, the fort is easily accessible yet retains an air of historical intrigue.
• Adjacent to the fort, street vendors offer a variety of food and beverages, providing refreshments for visitors.
• Respect the fort’s heritage by refraining from littering or touching any artifacts. Kindly dispose of rubbish in designated bins for a clean and respectful visit.

Temple Inside Bangalore Fort

Within the compound stands an ancient temple honouring Lord Ganesha. Legend has it that in 1690, the Wodeyars acquired Bangalore from Aurangazeb and commissioned the construction of this sacred site within the fort’s walls. However, architect and researcher Yeshaswini Sharma suggests a more recent origin for the temple. According to her findings, the temple’s architectural style differs significantly from the fort’s, indicating a later construction. Furthermore, she notes that the tiles adorning the temple date back to 1883 AD, shedding new light on its historical timeline.

How to Get to Bangalore Fort?

Make sure to carry cash for fare payment when utilizing these transportation options.

• By Metro – Located at the city’s heart, Bangalore Fort is conveniently accessed via the Krishnarajapura (KR Market) metro station, just a short distance from the fort’s entrance. Stay updated on metro timings and routes through the Namma Metro website.
• By Bus – The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates numerous buses with stops at KR Market, ensuring excellent connectivity throughout Bangalore.
• By Auto-Rickshaw – Opting for an auto-rickshaw ride is often the most straightforward way to reach the fort’s entrance. However, ensure the fare is based on the metered amount and clarify this with the driver before boarding.
• By Road – Driving to Bangalore Fort is also an option, but parking may pose challenges due to its location on busy streets.
• By Taxi – Taxis, including services from Uber and Ola, offer convenient transport to the fort, providing another hassle-free option for visitors.

Is Bangalore Fort Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

Bangalore Fort is meticulously monitored around the clock, ensuring a safe environment for all visitors, including solo female travellers. Situated in a bustling area, the fort benefits from constant foot traffic, reassuring that assistance is readily available. Nevertheless, exercising caution outside the fort’s premises is advisable, particularly during nighttime hours.

Are you a novice solo traveller seeking guidance? Or perhaps you have a myriad of questions regarding solo travel? Explore our comprehensive FAQ section dedicated to addressing common inquiries about solo travelling.

Closing Notes

The Bangalore Fort stands as a remarkable and iconic landmark in the city, offering visitors a captivating journey back in time to explore the rich history of Bangalore. I wholeheartedly endorse visiting this historical monument during your time in Bangalore.

Have you had the chance to experience the wonders of Bangalore Fort? Share your thoughts by writing to me at Solopassport@gmail.com.

PIN for later reference – Bangalore Fort, a Step Back in Time