Information on Aranthangi Fort (Pudukkottai, Tamil Nadu) - History & Architecture

Aranthangi Fort is a ruined fort situated in Aranthangi city. It is regarded as the one of the key centre of tourist attractions in Tamil Nadu. The fort is situated in very attractive location, near a natural lagoon. The connecting village of the fort is occupied by fisherman. Aranthangi Fort is a key example of wretched approach towards historical memorials.

Aranthangi Fort Architecture

The unique architectural feature of one of the most prominent forts in Tamil Nadu, i.e. Aranthangi Fort is its construction of wall. Unlike other historical monuments, the walls of Aranthangi Fort was not built with bricks or stones, rather, the large wall spaces are created with mud. Aranthangi Fort does not demonstrate any evidence of encompassing noticeable constructions or fortresses. In other words, there are no more wrecks of any fort or palaces in Aranthangi Fort. However, there exist an olden Hindu temple in adjacent areas of the fort which was created by Rajendra Chola during 11th century.

Aranthangi Fort History

Very little is known regarding the history of Aranthangir Fort. However, a track of 'Tondaimans' in the fort indicates that they are one who created this monument. Tondaimans are considered as ancestry of feudal chiefs who ruled Aranthangi region during 15th century to 18th century. According to history, Tondaimans derived from Pudkottai state as rulers. They fought against the leaders of Tanjore for supporting the rulers of Madurai. One Tondaiman king, namely Vijaya Raghunath Raya was found to assist Arcor Nawab against the fight of Hyder Ali, the king of Mysore. He was also regarded as a loyal supporter of British rulers. With the assistance of British army, Tondaimans were believed to capture the sovereignty of Aranthangi. Legend says that Aranthangi Fort was created during 16th or 17th century by them. The Tondaimans are also known to rule the Aranthangi region under Vijayanagara kings as well as Pandyas. They also found to assist the British government in order to win the fight against Tippu Sultan. Still, there is less uncovered information regarding the history of Tondaimans as well as the Aranthangi Fort which was created by them. The key reason for establishment of such fort is unclear.

Aranthangi Fort Tourism Importance

Due to its unique feature, Aranthangi Fort is worth visiting. Its ruined characteristics is regarded as a key attraction for tourists. Apart from the architecture of Aranthangi Fort, the tourists can also enjoy nearby attractions. Hence, from this particular viewpoint, Aranthangi Fort can be considered as an interesting place for tourism.