Basavakalyana Fort, 10th-century military fort in Bidar District, Karnataka, India.
Basavakalyana Fort is a fortified structure spread across elevated terrain in Bidar District, Karnataka, featuring seven gates with five remaining intact along with deep moats and sturdy stone walls. The structure displays typical military architecture with carefully designed entrance passages and reinforced bastions that reflect its strategic importance as a defensive position.
The fort was founded in 973 AD by Nalaraja under Tailapa II and served as the Western Chalukya dynasty capital from 1050 to 1195. This period shaped its architectural development and military role during an important phase of regional political history.
The fort holds remains of ancient temples, including a Jain shrine with intricate stone carvings of mythological lion-like creatures called Yalis that reflect spiritual beliefs of the region.
The location is about 90 kilometers from Gulbarga and 650 kilometers from Bangalore with regular visiting hours available. Guided tours are offered, and it is advisable to wear sturdy shoes during your visit as the terrain is uneven.
The fort walls contain hidden underground passages that served as escape routes during military sieges, revealing the defensive strategies of earlier times. These tunnels are part of an intricate protection system that allowed residents to hide or flee during emergencies.
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