Sankagiri Fort, Hill fort in Salem district, India.
Sankagiri Fort is a stone fortification built on a hill that rises about 1200 feet (370 m) above sea level, with multiple defensive walls and watchtowers arranged in layers. The complex spreads across several levels and includes temples and ancient water storage systems throughout its grounds.
Construction took place in the 15th century under the Gingee dynasty, and control later shifted between different rulers. The structure survived sieges and power changes throughout its history.
The temples within the fort show how this site remained spiritually important across generations. People still use these sacred spaces today, and the structures display craftsmanship that flourished in the region.
The climb to the fort follows a series of steps from the base and takes about one hour to reach the top. Visitors should be prepared for uneven ground and changing elevations along the way.
Beneath the visible stonework lies a network of underground chambers and tunnels that served as escape routes and storage during armed conflicts. These hidden passages reveal how builders planned the fort's defense in depth.
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