Karnataka is a well-known State with distinctive cultural characteristics. Sometimes beautiful areas that are less expensive will bring delight that cannot be compared to those that are more expensive. Kavaledurga is one among such places. It can be implied from the name that the Fort is in the Shivamogga District’s Theerthahalli.
A stunning location with a magnificent hill at the top and a lush green backdrop is nothing short of heaven on earth. The site can be understood from the cold breeze, the intimidatingly large shrubs, the lake, and the pillar that sings thousands of tales from past era.
Usually one cannot directly step into the Fort. It requires 3 to 4 miles of barefoot walk to reach the destination. On it’s way, black rock, and small water canal welcomes people. The tiredness pierces in the air as soon one enters the gateway of the Fort.
The walk inside the Fort is obviously adventurous because there are many ways to reach the hill. Kavaledurga Fort, also known as Bhuvanagiri now has some remains of a palace, bath, guard rooms and weapon storage houses. It is an amazing place for trekking and to enjoy the nature. It takes almost two hours to reach the top of the hill from the foot of the hill. The view from the top is really spectacular and worth all the effort one takes to reach the Fort. It is said that the fort has been built by Keladi Nayakas.The history is written on the wall so that one can read and understand.
Highlight of the Fort is it’s style of construction especially the ponds on top of the hills. The freshwater pond on top of the Fort is in excellent condition. There is also Srikanteshwara Temple and Nandi Mantapa that are situated on the hill. Besides the ruins and an old palace, a mosque built by Venkatappa Nayaka can also be found here. It is also a scenic spot to view the sun setting in the Arabian Sea.
The lake has a crystal clear water from which the trees’ shadow can be seen clearly. The water remains cool in all the seasons.
Kavaledurga is most underrated place, when it comes to its vividly beauty. Sunset, sunrise, trekking opportunity, historical view, temple darshan everything is available under one roof. It’s high time Government looks after this Fort so that the generation to come can also cherish the lovely abode.
