Credit: Kumar Saurav
About Madikeri Fort
As a testament to the enduring tales of Corrg’s rich history, Madikeri Fort is a must-visit destination among Coorg attractions. The fort is situated just 1 km from Madikeri bus stands and easily accessible to visitors. From the regal days of Mudduraja to the echoes of colonial transformation , the fort has seen the essence of time.
History
Madikeri Fort has an interesting history and came under the rule of many rulers and different empires. It was constructed in the 17th century by Mudduraja. In 1781 AD, Madikeri fort came under the rule of the Tipu sultan, who reconstructed it with stone and renamed it Jaffarabad .
Again, in 1790, Dodda Veerarajenddra took charge of the region and brought the fort into a new era of influence. Renovations continued under Lingarajendra Wodeyar II in the early 19th century. In 1834, the British took control, leaving an indelible mark on the fort’s legacy.
Architecture
Measuring an impressive 110 feet in length , Madekeri Fort is a two-story place. Adding to the fort’s charm, there is a majestic clock tower that the British renovated in 1933. At the At the entrance of the fort , stone replicas of elephants exude a regal welcome. Intricate sculptures, including a tortoise bearing King Vijayarajendra’s initials, add to the fort’s charm.
Inner Fort Treasures
Inside the fort, there was a temple called Virabhadra Temple that was replaced by the British. The place is now converted into a museum by the archaeological department. The museum displays relics from the British era and features a classical portrait of Field Marshal Km Cariappa,a renowned figure from Kodagu.
Mahatma Gandhi Public Library, Kotemaha Ganapati Temple, and a district prison are other attractions that lie within the fort. Today the fort is premises of Deputy commissioner office
Well, all these things tell us about the fort’s evolution. It stands as a reminder of its multifaceted role over the centuries.
Visiting Information:
Timing: 10 AM to 5:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry: Free