Famous Forts in Tamilnadu Tourism Places

Gingee Fort

Gingee Fort is the most spectacular and strategic of all forts in Tamil Nadu. Founded by the Cholas, it rose to prominence in the 16th century under the Nayakas when most of the fortifications, temples and granaries were built. Thereafter it was successively occupied by the Adil Shahis, Marathas, Mughals, French and British until it was abandoned in the beginning of the 19th century. The site is composed of three hills, each separately fortified. Curtain walls connecting the hills form the vast outer fort. An enclosed area around the highest fort Rajagiri forms the inner fort and palace zone.

The original fort was built by the Cholas in the 9th century. The fort has undergone numerous shifts in power from then on. It was modified by the Vijayanagar Empire in the 13th century, and gained a formidable reputation. The Gingee Nayaks made it their headquarters during the Nayak domination in Tamilnadu. The fort also served as a Maratha stronghold during the reign of Shivaji, and his son continued fighting against the mughuls from here. After a brief period of French possession, the fort finally came under British control in 1761. Gingee fort never witnessed war again. Presently it serves as a museum preserving the many historic buildings including the granaries, prison cells, the Kalyan Mahal and the Chenjiamman temple. The fort is situated at a height of 800 feet, and is surrounded by an 80 feet wide moat.

Timing: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM