Ballari Fort

Bellary, Karnataka, India

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Bellari Fort, located atop Ballari Gudda (Fort Hill) in Bellary, Karnataka, was initially built by Hanumappa Nayaka, a feudatory of the Vijayanagara Empire, in the 16th century.

The fort consists of two parts: the Upper Fort on the hilltop, featuring a citadel, temple, barracks, and water storage wells, and the Lower Fort at the base, which has strong bastions, entrance gates, and shelters for villagers.

In the late 18th century, Hyder Ali captured Bellary and rebuilt the Lower Fort with the help of a French engineer, who was reportedly executed by Hyder Ali after a design flaw was discovered. The fort's architecture blends Vijayanagara, Islamic, and colonial influences, with extensive granite walls and defensive structures including deep pits around the fort. 

The site remains an important historical landmark, representing Karnataka's rich military and cultural heritage while offering panoramic views of Bellary city below.​