Chikkajala Fort, a historical site close to Bengaluru, is shrouded in mystery. People have yet to learn about its origins, the builder, or the purpose for which it was built. It features an interesting fusion of Islamic and Dravidian architectural elements. The fortification's strong stone walls, bastions, and moat demonstrate its historical significance in the region. The fort's history is sometimes linked with the Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana, who constructed the Chennaraya temple in the village during the 12th century.

　　The majestic entry gate and some parts of the fortification are accessible to visitors today who come to explore the fort's ruins. The site draws both history buffs and curious travellers since it provides an intriguing glimpse into Karnataka's past.

　　Background

　　The city of Bengaluru is full of hidden gems. Even in the unlikeliest of places, there are remnants of history. The ruins of the Chikkajala Fort, which is situated 25 km outside the city en route to the airport, are one such mysterious place. Although some claim that the site is more than 3,000 years old, determining an accurate timeline is challenging due to the peculiar blend of architectural styles. The best-preserved feature, a Hanuman Temple, lies inside the boundaries of fort walls that enclose a two-acre plot of land. There are pillars arranged around a pond or Kalyani that remain standing after decades of deterioration.

　　Architecture

　　There are two sizable halls with columns to the south and east of the pond, joined by a corridor. Both the halls and the passage are made of stone. The pillars still stand after centuries of being exposed to the elements.

　　According to archaeologists, this was merely a walled temple complex and never a fort. It is not feasible for defence since it lacks bastions, and the walls are too thin to resist cannon fire. Furthermore, the complex has a lot of fascinating inconsistencies.

　　The pillars in both of the halls are in the pre-Islamic style, yet the temple is significantly more modern. The temple is also substantially smaller than the remainder of the site, suggesting that there was formerly a larger temple that may have collapsed and been replaced by this smaller one. The two halls were likely built with pilgrims in mind. To the south of the compound, there is a small door in the wall and adjacent to the wall, there appear to be two Islamic tombs. The walls are somewhat reminiscent of the Devanahalli fort built by Tipu Sultan. The stone pillars resemble natural protrusions among the overgrown forest and towering peepal trees. Almost a decade ago, some sections were demolished to make room for the Bangalore Highway. However, the remaining portions have enough elaborate carvings and decorations to make the journey worthwhile.

　　Getting there

　　Chikkajala Fort is just 38 minutes (26 km) from Bengaluru, just off the national highway as you drive to the airport and only 15 minutes (10 km) from Kempegowda International Airport.