Arikady Fort

Arikady Fort stands on a laterite hillock beside the river of the same name, with the Kumbala and Shiriya waterways marking the surrounding landscape. The site shows remains of walls and bastions that reflect its original military design.

Founded in 1608 by Ikeri Hiriya Venkadappa Nayak, the fort passed to Mysore rulers before falling under British control following Tipu Sultan's defeat. Each change of power left its mark on the structure and its use.

The site takes its name from the nearby river and served as a crossroads for trade routes over centuries. Visitors can still observe traces of these connections in the exposed foundations and scattered artifacts found throughout the grounds.

The site is reachable via NH 66 National Highway, with Kumbla railway station and bus stand providing transport access. Visit during drier months when the paths around the ruins are easier to navigate.

A Kannada inscription at the entrance documents the fort's founding and offers direct insight into its origins. At the base of the hillock stands a Hanuman temple, showing how spirituality and military purpose coexisted at this site.

GPS coordinates: 12.61838,74.94529

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:47