Nargund Fort is located in Nargund or Naragunda, a town in Gadag district of Karnataka. The fort is ideally located on a hilltop and forms a perfect backdrop for a town which is otherwise not on the major tourist circuit of Karnataka. Nargund fort was construed by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1675.

History

Historically, Nargund fort is of much significance. This was one of the many forts which Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj constructed. The fort remained under Marathas for only 15 years initially as Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb occupied it. It was only under the rule of Ramrao Dadaji Bhave that the Marathas were able to wrest the control of the fort from the Mughal in 1707.

After remaining with the Mughals for a major part of 18th century, the fort was conquered by Hyder Ali who ruled Mysore at that particular period. The possession of this fort further passed onto Tipu Sultan, who waged a war against the British until his death. It was but natural that the fort played a vital role in the uprising against the British forces. The fort played a vital role during the mutiny of 1857 but was annexed by the British rulers. Colonel Malcom along with British forces attacked the fort and eventually captured it.

Architecture

A unique touch of Maratha architecture is evident at Nargund fort as it was constructed by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj who ensured that the fort stood the tide of time. The fortification of the hill on which the fort has been constructed was done in great detail. This was done to ensure that the enemy could not capture the fort with ease.

A distinct feature of Nargund fort is the absence of dance floors which used to be an imperative part of forts at that point. Neither did the fort had any temple as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj wished to pay more attention to other aspects which would eventually give an edge to the soldiers in case of an attack by the enemy.

However, the fort had well designed water tanks, watch towers, ammunition storage points which were to be used in emergency. Though Government of Karnataka has taken measures to restore forts of significance but Nargund fort is in ruins. Historians and people interested in exploring the architectural designs of the Maratha era frequently come to the fort.

Best Time to Visit

Though Nargund can be visited at any time of the year, the period from October to March is considered to be the best time to visit the town during these months. The temperature is moderate during winters and the ruins of Nargund fort can be explored in great details.

Timings & Tickets

The fort is in much ruins and no entry ticket is applicable to visitors who come over to the fort. It is advisable to visit the fort in early morning hours as temperature can rise during the day hours.

How to Reach

By Road

Nargund is around 250 km from Bangalore and can be reached via State Transport Buses. Bus and taxis can also be taken from other cities like Hubli and Belgaum to reach the Nargund fort.

By Rail

Mallpur Railway Station at a distance of 25 km is the nearest rail link to Nargund.

By Air

Hubli Airport at a distance of 48 km and Sambre Airport at a distance of 93 km from Nargund are the nearest airports.