Belgaum fort is situated in the Belgaum district in the city of Belgaum. It was built by Bichi Raja also known as Jaya Raja in 1204 A.D., over the centuries the fort has undergone several renovations by the different rulers who ruled this place. The fort has a rich history with many religious monuments and historical places from the time of Adil Shahi dynasty, it has a large moat and fine ramparts. It also holds an important place in India’s freedom struggle, as Mahatma Gandhi was imprisoned here by British rulers.

History

The history of the fort can be traced back to the Ratta Dynasty with hints of Vijayanagara emporers, Marathas, Bahamins, and in the end by the British rulers. Before Rattas, this place was also ruled by Kadambas, Chalukyas and Shatavahanas who came from Goa. The Belgaum fort was built by a Ratta officer called Bichiraja and from then on it belonged to the Ratta dynasty. Between 1210 A.D. and 1250 A.D., the city of Belgaum served as the capital of the Fort. The fort was briefly controlled by Yadava dynasty of Devagiri when they beat the Rattas.

The place was invaded by the Khiljis of Delhi in the beginning of 14th century, but they did not rule the place and left it in ruins. In 1474 A.D., the fort was captured by the Bahmani Sultanate under the leadership of Mahmood Gawan. Later on, this sultanate was segregated into five small states and Belgaum was ruled by Adilshahi sultanate of Bijapur. Much of the existing structure was constructed by Ismail Adil Shah with the assistance of Asad Khan Lari.

Architecture

It is counted among the oldest fort in Karnataka. The fortification was designed to misguide enemy attacks. The original structure of the fort was built by Bichiraja in 1204. This oval shape fort is built on an undulating land and around the fort is a wide and deep moat plastered with red stones. On the external side, the bastion reaches a height of nearly 32 feet when measured from the bottom of the moat. The internal area of the fort is nearly 800 yards wide and 1,000 yards long. The entry to the main gate was through a bridge the gate that is in use these days is a fine work of Indian architecture and is considered to be built by Brahmin.

At the entrance of the fort, there are two Hindu shrines – one devoted to goddess Durga and other of Ganesha. Images of mythological figures are painted on the outer façade of the temple. There are two mosques inside the fort – namely the Jama Masjid and Safa Masjid. The latter mosque is frequently visited by local Muslim people. Exquisite inscription can be found of the pillars of the Mosque in Persian and Nagari styles.

How to Reach

The fort is in the northwestern part of Karnataka and is located in the precincts of Belgaum city. It is readily connected by road, rail and air from all corners of the country. It is connected through National Highway 4 and NH 4A. It is around 500 km from Bangalore. It is nearly halfway between Mumbai and Bangalore. The nearest airport is around 10 km from the place – Belgaum airport.

Best Time to Visit

The fort can be visited on all week days between 8.00 am and 6.30 pm. The entry is paid. The weather of this place is usually warm, so it is comfortable to visit this place at any time of the year.