Chitradurga, earlier called as Chitaldurg, is located in the valley formed by Vedavati River. The place is called Chitradurg after an ‘umbrella-shaped hill’ - ‘Chitrakaldurga’, found in the district. The district fell into the hands of many rulers and is famous for fort, lakes and temples.
Chitradurg is a picturesque fort built in stones on top of Chitrakaldurga hill. The majestic fort has 38 entrances, 19 gates, four secret entrances and houses 18 temples. Interestingly, the rulers built 2000 soaring watch towers all over the fort area to guard enemy attacks. The fort also houses several water tanks, oil pits, a mosque, a palace and many granaries. Temples of the district are: Thirumalleshwara in Hiriyur on Vedavathi River banks and Ranganatha Swamy Temple in Neerthadi and Doddahottrangappa Hill. Ashoka Siddapura and Brahmagiri are ancient archeologically important sites from where Emperor Ashoka’s edits have been recovered. Other attractions in Chitradurg include Vani Vilas Sagar (artificial lake), Jogimatti Hill Station and Fort of Molakalmorru, The town of Halalkere has a 9ft. idol of Bala Ganesha and a Jain Basti. Placed in a valley, amidst scenic hills, with the Vedavathi and Thungabhadra Rivers flowing across Chitadurga District is a famous tourist centre in Karnataka.
