Information on Manjarabad Fort (Hassan, Karnataka) - History & Architecture

Manjarabad Fort is situated near Sakleshpur in Hassan district of Karnataka. It is reputed for being created by popular Mughal ruler Tippu Sultan. The fort was created for the purpose of defence from British rulers. Located at the top of a mountain, this fort is based on one level, rather than multi-level which rarely observed in most forts.

Manjarabad Fort Architecture

Manjarabad Fort is a fine example of French architecture. The fort is based on small structure which is very sporadic in India. It is a star shaped construction which stands on 988 meter above the sea level. There is a short path in the fort, following a long steps which direct to an extensive passageway. The passageway is bordered by solid impending stone walls and ends at an arched entrance. There are number of compartments in the fort where some were used as sheds for the horses and others were used as kitchens and bathrooms for the Mughal armies.

One of the key aspects of Manjarabad Fort is its one level construction style. There is only one source of water in the fort which is cross shaped. It is believed that an underpass had been constructed in Manjarabad Fort which direct to another fort in Srirangapattana. The underpass was used for discarding dead bodies. Apart from that, there was a secret channel in Manjarabad Fort which seem to link both Mysore and Chennarayapatna for the purpose of escaping in case of capture of the fort by enemies. Tippu Sultan appears to be under immense pressure from British forces and therefore created several secret passageways. There are also various rounded passageways which looks to be the resting places of horses.

Manjarabad Fort possesses round water canal in order to protect from enemy assault. It was said that crocodiles used to pervade in the water canal in order to guzzle up the enemies. At present, the water canal is being refurbished and the border walls have been coated with granite, cement and ivory shade.

Manjarabad Fort History

Manjarabad Fort was created in late 1790s when Tippu Sultan was the ruler of Mysore. He battled against the British East India Company in order to protect the independence of Mysore. Tippu Sultan desired to hinder the approach of British army to Mangalore and Coorg and therefore he created this Manjarabad Fort. It is basically created as a tactical defence mechanism and therefore the location was also selected accordingly. Its strategic location permits the soldiers of Tippu Sultan to observe British army approaching from Mangalore. Manjarabad Fort was ideal for controlling the nearby littoral areas of Mysore. Throughout the rule of Tippu Sultan, Manjarabad Fort was also used in order to store ammo and to detect the enemies of the state.

According to another historical explanation, Manjarabad Fort was created by feudal lords of Vijaynagar territory. It is believed that later, the fort was occupied by Tippu Sultan. There are signs which states that Manjarabad Fort is a threatened monument. Furthermore, during that period, French people were popular for their military construction. Thus, French architectural style can be observed in the creation of Manjarabad Fort with high walled structure ponded by cannons.

Manjarabad Fort Tourism Importance

Manjarabad Fort is a must visit place for tourists. They can enjoy the imposing view of Western Ghats from the fort. Furthermore, the tunnels of the fort are also regarded as significant tourist attraction. Its star shape architecture is hardly found in any other forts in India, making it an important tourist destination.