Treasures of Gingee Fort
Gingee Fort, also known as Senji Fort, is a beautiful hilltop fort located in the Villupuram district of Tamil Nadu, India. The fort was built by the Chola dynasty and was later developed by the Vijayanagar Empire. It served as an important military stronghold during the reigns of the Maratha Empire and the British East India Company. Gingee Fort reflects the rich heritage and history of India and is a must-visit for history buffs and art enthusiasts.
The fort is made up of three prominent hills known as Rajagiri, Krishnagiri and Chandrayandurg, and is surrounded by a moat. The fort complex spans across 3 square kilometers and the stunning architecture of the fort consists of temples, granaries, barracks, tanks, and secret tunnels.
The most prominent feature of the fort is the majestic Kalyana Mahal, also known as the Wedding Hall. This palace is a five-story building with beautiful frescoes and murals depicting various scenes of Hindu mythology. The architecture of the palace is a perfect blend of Hindu-Saracenic styles, which adds to the beauty of the building.
Another must-visit place inside the fort is the Venkataramana Temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara and is more than 400 years old. The temple is adorned with beautifully carved pillars and sculptures, and the unique feature of the temple is the 3D art which takes the visitors by surprise.
The fort also has a granary, also known as ‘Kottai Kallarai’. It is a massive structure built to store grains and provisions for the soldiers. This structure is built in such a way that it is able to withstand the humid climate and protect the stored grains from getting spoiled.
The fort has secret tunnels which connect the various parts of the fort. These tunnels were built to allow the safe passage of soldiers and officials during war times, and also to transport provisions to different parts of the fort without being detected by the enemy. Visitors can also visit the prison inside the fort which was built to detain the prisoners of war and rebel leaders.
The fort offers a magnificent panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. The lush paddy fields, the serene hills, and the vast stretches of blue sky make the fort an ideal spot to relax and unwind.
Gingee fort is a treasure trove of history and art and attracts tourists from all over the world. The fort is easily accessible by car or public transport. The best time to visit the fort is during the winter season, from October to March. A visit to Gingee Fort is a step back in time to explore the history and culture of India.