Explore Nagara Fort near Kodachadri

History of Nagara Fort:

Nagara is a historic village in Shivamogga district, known for its fort built by Shivappa Nayak of the Keladi Kingdom. Veerabhadra Nayaka, a ruler of the Keladi dynasty, built Nagara Fort in 1640 after losing their original capital, Ikkeri, to the Bijapur Sultans.

Shivappa Nayaka, who followed Veerabhadra Nayaka, improved the fort and led the Keladi Dynasty to its height. It’s also said that Raja Ram, the son of Maratha leader Shivaji Maharaj, took refuge in Nagara Fort. Brave Keladi rulers like Shivappa Nayaka and Rani Keladi Chennama defended their land against powerful enemies. Eventually, the fort fell to Haider Ali in 1763.

Today, visitors can see the remains of the palace, guard rooms, wells, storage areas, watchtower, and cannons. The fort was built next to a lake, had systems for water management, and was self-sufficient during wars. The main entrance and outer walls of the fort are still mostly intact, helping us appreciate its rich history.

How to reach Nagara Fort?

By Air: Book a flight from Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) in Bangalore to either Mangalore International Airport (IXE). Hire a taxi or use a ride-sharing service to reach Nagara Fort. It’s about a 2 to 3-hour drive from Mangalore.

By Train: Book a train ticket from Bangalore City Railway Station (SBC) to either Shimoga. Shimoga is a bit closer. Take a taxi or bus to Nagara Fort, which is about a 45-minute to 1-hour drive away.

By Bus: Several private and KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation) buses run from Bangalore to Hosanagara. Hosanagara is closer to Kodachadri. Hire a taxi or take a local bus to Nagara Fort, which is about a 30-minute drive.

Best time to visit Nagara Fort:

Summer (March to June): Daytime temperatures can range from 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F), with occasional peaks higher than this. Evenings are relatively cooler. It’s generally hot and dry. The heat can be intense, especially in May.

Monsoon (July to September): Temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), with high humidity. Expect heavy rainfall and lush greenery. The rain can sometimes lead to slippery paths and potential flooding. The monsoon season can be a beautiful time to visit due to the verdant landscapes.

Winter (October to February): Temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), with cooler mornings and evenings. Winter is typically dry and pleasant, with clear skies and mild temperatures. This is the most comfortable time to visit Nagara Fort. The weather is ideal for exploring the fort and enjoying the surrounding landscape.

Things to do at Nagara Fort:

Explore the Ruins: Wander through the remains of the palace, guard rooms, and other structures. The architecture and layout give insights into the fort’s history and design.

Visit the Watchtower: Climb up to the watchtower for a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. It offers a great perspective on the fort’s strategic location.

See the Canons: Check out the old cannons still present at the fort. They are a reminder of the fort’s military significance.

Walk Around the Walls: Stroll along the fort’s exterior walls and main entrance to appreciate the fort’s fortifications and defensive design.

Explore the Wells and Storage Areas: Visit the wells and storage facilities to understand how the fort managed resources and supplies.

Relax by the Lake: Enjoy the scenic views of the lake next to the fort. It’s a peaceful spot for a picnic or a quiet moment.

Trek: Trek to Kodachadri hills which is 15 kms away from Nagara fort. The complete trek is of 16kms, the trek trails goes in-between forest and mountains. 

These activities provide a mix of historical exploration, scenic enjoyment, and a deeper understanding of the fort’s past.