Gingee fort is an ancient fort located in Villupuram district of Tamil Nadu in India. It is one of the most impressive and well-preserved forts in India. The fort has three hillocks called Krishnagiri, Rajagiri, and Chakkilidrug. The fort was built by the Chola dynasty in the 13th century and was later captured by the Vijayanagara Empire in 1390 was further improved by the Maratha rulers in the 16th centuryThe entire fort surrounded by a thick wall made of granite stones, which is about 3 kilometres (1.9 mi) long and 24 metres (79 ft) high. It consists of seven lines of defence walls, each of which are separated by a moat. The fort has several gateways, which are connected by a drawbridge also has many secret passages and a temple dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara. The fort has many interesting features such as a palace, secret chambers, an aquarium, a granary, an armoury, and a mint. The palace complex is quite large and consists of many halls, chambers, and courtyards. There are also several temples within the fort complex. Gingee fort is considered to be one of the best-preserved forts in India. It is a popular tourist attraction and is visited by many tourists each year. The fort has also been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Kalyan Mahal, located within the Gingee Fort complex, is a large and impressive palace complex built in the 16th century. The palace was built by the Vijayanagara kings and was used as the residence of their queens. The palace is built in the traditional Vijayanagara style, with a variety of Hindu deities carved into the walls and an impressive central courtyard. The palace is also home to a large collection of sculptures, paintings and other artifacts from the Vijayanagara period. The palace is now in ruins, but it still serves as an important reminder of the rich cultural legacy of the Vijayanagara Empire.
Trekking
The fort is a popular trekking destination and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. It is also a popular spot for bird watching. The trek to the fort is moderate to difficult and involves climbing up and down rocky terrain. The main entrance of the fort is located at the foot of the hill. From here, you can follow a winding path to the summit. Along the way, you will have to negotiate many steep slopes and rocky outcrops. Once at the top, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The entire trek can take anywhere between three to five hours. It is advisable to take plenty of water and energy snacks with you, as it can get quite tiring. You should also wear appropriate clothing and footwear to ensure a safe and comfortable trek. Gingee Fort is an ideal destination for those looking for an exciting adventure and an unforgettable experience.
