Uchangidurga (ಉಚಂಗಿದುರ್ಗ) and Karadidurga

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Uchangidurga is a fort as well as a holy village in Harapanahalli Taluk of Vijayanagara District in Karnataka, India. It is 29km away from both Harapanahalli and Davanagere, it is located on state highway 47. It has a neighboring fort called Karadidurga and pictures of Karadidurgra are given at the bottom of this blog. 

Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XsodNATVgHToyKnK6 




Uchangidurga was ruled under Nayakas (Madakari Nayakas of Chitradurga) and is the site of Uchangemma Temple, where on every month's full moon day, people gather to worship Uchangemma.











During the time of the Kadambas, it was known as "Uchchasringi." Later, the Chalukyas reigned and brought this area under their control. They defeated Pallavas, who had occupied the territory and chased them further south. In the middle of the 12th century when Chlaukyas became weak and fading, Pandyas took charge of this region. Uchangidurga was the capital of the Pandyas, who claimed to be from the Yadav race and that their capital was Kanchipuram.




Love the way the donkey was captured 😀





At it's peak, the fort has two distinct edifices. Referred to as the King's and Queen's palace respectively. Of course - no 'palace' remains. Just some ruins of a bygone era 












This fort was built during the 4th century. Interestingly, this fortress was under the major rulers from Kadambas to Pallavas, Chalukyas to Pandyas, Nayakas to Hyder Ali and Marathas to Gulbarga Sultans. Though it was under so many rulers, Uchangidurga was prominent region during the rule of Nayakas. It was Timmappa Nayaka (Madakari Nayaka 's father) who improved this fort. Unfortunately, such an important fort has faded away and has been forgotten. Recently, Uchangidurga was taken under the ASI and several restoration works are being done.

























Karadidurga: Not much is known about this place. the entire fort is in ruins with a thick overgrowth of bushes.  
Google Maps: 











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