Jamalabad Fort (Belthangady) Dakshina Kannada

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If you have stamina and vitality, then you have to visit Jamalabad Fort - an old hill top fortification in Belthangady, Dakshina Kannada District. It is located in the Kudremukh range of hills. It is also referred locally as ‘Gadaikallu’ and ‘Narasimha Ghada’




I first visited this fort in 1990 and a lot sure had changed in the past 32 years. But I digress…let’s continue with the description.

The first thing that strikes you is the sheer steepness of the fort and it makes you wonder how to climb it. Once you encircle it, you realize that it is not all that steep. Also, with the exception of the initial climb, where you have stones placed as steps, the rest of the path has steps cut out of black granite.




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The next thing that strikes you is the sheer blackness of the rock. Kinda eerie…even in daytime. Despite the fact that the hill has steps cut out, I would not recommend it for the faint-hearted as the climb is tiring and the steps are a bit steep.

Also, please carry water – preferably two bottles per person and if you want, some Gatorade for replenishing your salts

An important point to note as this is not a fort for conventional war. Apparently, it is designated as a ‘watchtower fort’. Therefore, it does not really have tall, imposing walls.

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Interestingly, there is an old canon lying in this fort. I doubt if anyone has ever attempted to steal it as it is heavy. Very very heavy. I could not move it an inch

Once you are at the top, you are treated to a 360-degree view of the surroundings which includes the plains on one side, the thick forests and of course the entire Kudremukh range.

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History:

The fort was built by Tipu Sultan in 1794 and named after his mother, Jamalabee. He decided to build a fort there, as he was impressed by the massive granitic rock which was suitable for the construction of a strong fort. According to locals, it was built to serve as a watch tower to see things around when enemy attacked. The fort was captured by the British in 1799 during the 4th Anglo-Mysore war.








There is a water body situated at the top which is used to store water

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Entry to the fort is restricted to between 6 am to 6 pm. You will have to pay Rs. 50 as entry charges. Overnight stay at the fort is prohibited. The two forest guards – Krishnappa and Veerappa are friendly. Please ensure that you enter your mobile number correctly in their register as they will call you in case you do not come back in time. (very nice safeguard).

 

There is no shop nearby for food or water nor is there any mechanic/puncture shop or petrol bunk. There is, however, a small vendor who sells lime soda/water and other healthy condiments.  


The nearest city is Belthangady 8 km away 

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