Kavaledurga Fort

Kavaledurga Fort, located near Shivamogga (Shimoga) in Karnataka, is an ancient hill fort originally built in the 9th century with significant renovations in the 14th century by Cheluvarangappa. It served as the last capital of the Keladi Nayaka kingdom, who were initially feudatories under the Vijayanagara Empire before becoming independent.

The fort features three massive granite fortification walls following the natural contours of the hill, watchtowers, and multiple gateways with guard rooms. Inside, there are ruins of a palace, granaries, stables, and a sophisticated water supply system including ponds and a stepped tank. The fort once housed around fifteen temples, with three surviving today including the Shikareshwara temple situated near the summit, which offers panoramic views.

Historically, the fort was a strategic stronghold, resisting attacks during various power struggles, including defense by Keladi Queen Chennamma against Mughal forces while protecting the Maratha prince Rajaram. Perched at about 1,541 meters in the lush Western Ghats, the fort combines remarkable architecture with natural defense provided by dense forests and rugged terrain, making it a site of both historic and scenic significance.