Madhugiri Fort Trek

Details

The climb, which is little less than 6 kilometres long, can be split approximately into four portions based on difficulty level and is marked by stone gateways at each of these sites. The first section of the hike takes you up a flight of stairs, which is a relatively straightforward and scenic climb. You are greeted with magnificent views right away, a sample of what is to come. Along this section, one is also greeted by a succession of intricately carved stone gateways that beg you to take a step back and admire their beauty. This short ascent leads to a flat platform highlighted by a majestic bastion protruding from the remainder of the wall, which provides a 180-degree panoramic perspective of the surrounding area. The bastion built on a natural granite pillar and accompanied by an artificial tank designed to store water for the military is truly breathtaking and can only be appreciated from a higher vantage point a little further up the trail. The climb up and down from the bastion is difficult, with only a sheer slippery granite surface to help you, but the view is well worth the effort.

The second section of the journey begins here, since the trail ahead is indicated by stairs carved into the rock surface itself, and the incline becomes more difficult. The handrails provided for support here, on the other hand, make the ascent a little simpler. Enjoy the spectacular views of the bastion in contrast to the bird's eye perspective of Madhugiri town below as you make your way up to the third and most difficult stage of the climb, which many consider perilous.

With an incline of around 60-70 degrees, this is the most challenging part of the walk, requiring trekkers to get down on all fours while trying this difficult stretch. Those who are afraid of heights may find this particularly difficult; but, persevere and overcome your anxieties, and you will be rewarded. Even in the drier seasons, sturdy footwear is required for your trip to Madhugiri Fort, and it becomes a completely new ball game during the monsoons.

Breath a sigh of relief as you make your way through the little stone tunnel that marks the start of the fourth and last section of your trip up Madhugiri Fort. This is a rather straightforward stretch because it largely consists of a simple walk up to the peak on a gentle rise. However, with most of your resources gone, this final hike is a test of stamina, requiring you to extract every last ounce of vitality from your already fatigued bodies.

Unlike the other stone gateways, your arrival at the peak is marked by a fortified bare stone wall with a single door opening. The existence of multiple old structures at the top itself distinguishes the Madhugiri fort from the other forts in the vicinity, as opposed to a comparatively bare peak on most others. Aside from the Gopalakrishna temple, there are several dome-shaped stone granaries used by the military to store perishables. The most unusual sight here, though, has to be the single-story edifice made of rocks and concrete with many chambers inside. Each of these rooms is lit by a single opening in the ceiling, which creates a fascinating play of light. It is unknown if these rooms were used to house soldiers or prisoners of war, but their strategic location at the very top of the fort must have been significant.

Explore the historic structures and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding hillocks, as well as the Madhugiri town below, which now resembles grains of sand. It's also a good idea to relax here before beginning the descent because the Sun will be out in full force and you'll need all of your energy to handle some of the steep portions that are more difficult to descend than to climb up and offer their own adventures.

Look back at the tangle of a trail you've just overcome and the majestic Madhugiri Fort wishing you farewell as we begin our trek back to Bangalore.