Chitradurga District

About Chitradurga District

The district is hilly, with lots of forts and villages. It is bounded by Tumkur District to the southeast and south, Chikmagalur District to the southwest, Davanagere District to the west, Bellary District to the north, and Anantapur District of Andhra Pradesh state to the east. Davanagere District was formerly part of Chitradurga. According to 2001 census the population of the district was 1,517,896.

Chitradurga District, covering an expanse of 8,440 sq. km derives its nomenclature from Chitrakaldurga, which is an etymological representation of an umbrella-shaped lofty hill located in the district. The district lies in the heart of the Vedavati River vally and finds mention in the chronicles of the epic Ramayana and the Mahabharata. Tumkur, Chikmagalur, Davanagere and Bellary District of Karnataka and Anantapur District of Andhra Pradesh state form Chitradurga’s geographic barriers.

Bold rock hills and picturesque valleys. Huge towering boulders in unimaginable shapes. That is Chitradurga for you. This place is not known as the “Place of stone fort” (Kallina Kote) for nothing. The landscape looks much like a mischievous giant’s playground - with boulders thrown around, forming awesome silhouettes against he sky. And that could be true! According to a story in the Epic Mahabharatha, a man-eating gaint named Hidimbasura did line here on the Chitradurga hill - a source of terror to everyone around. And then Pandavas came here with their mother Kunti in the course of their exile and Bhima had a duel with Hidimba. Hidimba was slain by Bhima and peace returned to the area. These amazing boulders could well be part of the arsenal used during that duel! Seriously though, these boulders and the major part of the city rests on belong to the oldest rock formation in the country.

History

Chitradurga features bold rock hills and picturesque valleys, huge towering boulders in unimaginable shapes. It is known as the “stone fortress” (Kallina Kote). The landscape looks much like a mischievous giant’s playground, with boulders thrown around, forming silhouettes against the sky. According to a story in the Epic Mahabharatha, a man-eating giant named Hidimbasura lived on the Chitradurga hill and was a source of terror to everyone around. When the Pandavas came with their mother Kunti in the course of their exile, Bhima had a duel with Hidimba. Hidimba was slain by Bhima and peace returned to the area. Legend has it the boulders were part of the arsenal used during that duel. In fact, the boulders on which major part of the city rests belong to the oldest rock formation in the country.

Timmana Nayaka a chieften under the Vijayanagar empire rose to the rank of governor of Chitradurga as a reward for his excellence in military achievements, from the Vijayanagara ruler. This was the beginning of the rule of the Nayakas of Chitradurga. His son Obana Nayaka is known by the name Madakari Nayaka 1588 CE. Madakari Nayaka’s son Kasturi Rangappa 1602 succeeded him and consolidated the kingdom to rule peacefully. As he had no heirs to succeed him, his adopted son, the apparent heir was enthroned but was killed in few months by the Dalavayis.

Chikkanna Nayaka 1676, the brother of Madakari Nayaka II sat on the throne, and his brother succeeded him with the title Madakari Nayaka III in 1686. The unwillingness of Dalawayis to accept Madakari Nayaka III’s rule gave an opportunity to one of their distant relatives, Bharamappa Nayaka to ascend the throne in 1689. He is known as dthe greatest of the Nayaka rulers. Somehow, the subjects of Chitradurga did not experience a good reign of the successive rulers as they ruled on the throne for very brief periods. The Hiri Madakari Nayaka IV 1721, Kasturi Rangappa Nayaka II 1748, Madakari Nayaka V 1758 ruled this area but there is not much to mention of their rule.

Educational Institutions

• Basaveshwara Medical College & Hospital

• SJM Dental College And Hospital

• Bapuji Ayurvedic Medical College

• Amrith Ayurvedic Medical College

• BG Education Society

• S Neelakantaiah PU College

• Anupama Para Medical College

• SJM College Of Pharmacy

• Sri Jagadguru Murughrajendra Institute

• District Institute Of Education & Train

• Government TTI

• Sharana Harallayya TTI

• BEA College Of Education

• College Of Teacher Education

• MM College Of Education

• Sree Venkateshwara College Of Education

• Government School Of Arts & Crafts

• SJM Polytechnic

• Tmaes S Polytechnic

• SJM Murugharajendra Polytechnic

• Gnanavikas Polytechnic

• Sri Venkateshwara ITI

• TMAE Societies ITI

• B Parameswarappa Arts & Commerce Colle

• Bapuji First Grade College

• Basava Bharathi First Grade College

• Dr Zakir Huissain First Grade College

• Government Arts College

• Government College Of Teacher Education, Chit

• Government First Grade College

• Government First Grade College, Hoosadurga

• Government First Grade College, Molakalmuru

• Government First Grade Sc College,

• Government Science College, Chitradurga

• HMT First Grade College

• HPCC Government First Grade College

• MBR College

• Maharaja Madakarinayaka First Grade

• Manjit Kaur Bhutasingh First Grade

• Panchalingeshwara First Grade College

• SJM College Of Arts,science & Commerce

• SJM Evening College

• SJM Women S First Grade College

• Shankaraag Memorial Arts & Commerce

• Smt Kote Boramma First Grade College

• Smt Neelamma A Hanumathappa First Grade

• Smt Yeshodharamma Borappa Kamanbhavi

• Sri BL Gowda First Grade College

• Sri Gavi Ranganatha Swamy First Grade

• Sri Jagadguru Rudrakshi Muni Desi

• Sri Kote Sanna Borappa Boramma First

• Sri Venkateswara College Of Education

• University College Of Fine Arts

• Venkateshwara First Grade College

• Vani Sugar Arts & Commerce College

• Vishwapriya First Grade College

• Government Pu College For Boys, Chitradurga

• SJM College Of Arts

Tourist Attraction

The ancient temples of Chitradurga district bear the marks of the ancient dynasties that ruled the region and are maintained as historical sites. The district in Karnataka is surrounded with rocky hills, which houses many ancient temples. Some of the important temples of Chitradurga district are Ekanathamma, Gopalakrishna, Phalguneswara, Anjaneya, Subbaraya and Siddeswara.

Chandravalli:- Suituated at the north easterly axis of the Chitradurga hill, the Chandravalli is an ancient archaeological site. Digs revealing bricks, painted pottery and coins are traced to the Satavahana period as well as well as prehistoric times. The Basavanagondi region has the Byraveshwara Temple

Taralabalu Mata Sirigere Sirigere place from towards Chitradurga to Davanagere. Sirigere is situated on the Poona- Bangalore National Highway (NH4). It is at distance of 227 KM from Bangalore and is located between Chitradurga (27 KM), the District Head Quarters, and Davangere (50 KM). It can be easily recognized while travelling on the National Highway No.4 by the presence of an attractive arch on the western side. Sirigere is just 6 KM from this Arch.

Ankali Mutt:- Nestling amongst a group of rugged hills, west of Chitradurga, this mutt is known for its subterranean chambers. Near the Panchalinga cave (Wonder cave) entrance, is an inscription dated 1286 A.D. executed in the reign of the Hoysala King Narasimha III.

Bruhanmutt:- Located about three kms from Chitradurga this mutt, also known as Sri. Murugarajendra Matt was built in honour of an eminent guru of the Veershaiva

Community. The main object of worship is the Gudduge (tomb) of lmmadi Muruga Swamy.

Aadumalleshwara:- Located 5 kms. from Chitradurga, is a Shiva Cave temple built by Aadooru Mallapa. An interesting feature is a perennial stream that flows through the Nandi’s (buills) mouth.

Ingaladalu:- Two kms from Chitradurga, this village is known for its copper mines. It is believed, that ancient times gold and silver mines were here

Thamatekallu:- Located 8 kms from Chitradurga, this place has the oldest hero stone in Karnataka. Ancient rock cut inscriptions are also found her.

Jogimatti:- Ten kms. south of Chitradurga is this hill resort, situated at a height of 3803 ft. (The highest point in the district). The place is named after a yogi, who was well known for his social service. Himavatkedra, a waterfall that flows through the rocks, has created a natural cave, that has a Shiva Linga and idols of Veerabhadra and Basavanna.

Ashoka Siddapura is an important archaeological site where emperor Ashoka’s edits were found. Nearby is Ramagiri, a hillock that has mythical associations with the epic Ramayana. A temple dedicated to Rameshwara built in 926 CE. exists here.

Sirigere:- Located northwest of Chitradurga, Sirigere is well known for the Veershaiva Mutt of Taralabalu Jagadguru. The monastery is noted for the educational and religious centers run by them.

Neerthadi:- Thirty eight kms. from Chitradurga, this village has the famous Ranganathaswamy Temple in the Vijayanagar style

Jogimatti Hill Station

Molakalmuru fortified town of the Kadambas

Neerthadi is famous for its Ranganathaswamy temple built in Vijayanagar style.

Halurameshwar: Local lore has it that one’s wishes can be fulfilled and once future predicted by looking into the well, “Udbavagange”, which makes it a popular place for visitors. Called as “Varava Koduva Bhavi”.

Jankal: This is the birth place of the Chitradurga’s last chieftain, Madakari Nayaka.

Bagooru: Seventy kms. from Chitradurga, this place is known for the ancient Chennakeshava temple.

Heggere: The Jain monastery, located here and the Kalleshwara temple are the attractions.

Dasaratha Rameshwara: This is a peaceful religious center, in the midst of a picturesque forest area.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation

• Hotel Aishwarya Fort, Chitradurga
• Hotel Sai International, Davanagere
• Hotel Alok, Davanagere
• Hotel Veda Comforts,
• Hotel Maurya Deluxe Lodge,
• Vashishata Deluxe Lodge,
• Revathi Deluxe Lodge,

Location info

CHITRADURGA Located at a distance of 202 kms Northwest of Bangalore, in the heart of the Deccan Plateau, Chitradurga is recognized as the land of valour and chivalry. The district headquarters town, Chitradurga owes its name to “Chitrakaladurga,” or “Picturesque castle”. This is a massive fortress on top of granite hills that rises dramatically from the ground. Archaeological remains found in the area, trace its history to the 3nd millennium B.C.

How to reach Chitradurga District

**Nearest Railway Station:**There is a daily service to Bangalore and weekly services to Mumbai. Proposed link between Chitradurga and Tumkur can reduce the travel time to Bangalore by half.

• **Nearest Airport:**Bangalore International Airport

• **Road Transport:**City of Chitradurga is located at the junction of NH-4 (Bangalore-Pune National Highway) and NH-13 (Sollapur-Mangalore National Highway).

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Karnataka. 4G is reliable in Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Hubli, and along highways. Coverage may be weaker in deep forest areas of Bandipur, Nagarhole, and certain Western Ghats sections. Most hotels, resorts, and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

Food & restaurants nearby

Food options are available in the nearest town. Karnataka cuisine ranges from coastal seafood to Udupi vegetarian to Coorg’s pandi curry. Dosa, idli, bisi bele bath, and filter coffee are iconic.

Climate & weather

Karnataka has a varied climate from the humid coast to the dry Deccan plateau and cool Western Ghats. The best time to visit is October to March, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C depending on region. April–May is hot across most of the state (up to 38°C). The southwest monsoon (June–September) brings heavy rain to the coast and ghats but transforms the landscape — this is the best time for Jog Falls and Coorg’s lush greenery. Hill stations (Coorg, Chikmagalur) remain pleasant year-round. Bangalore has a moderate climate throughout.

Helpline & emergency contacts

Tourist Helpline: 1364 (toll-free, 24×7). Police: 112 (all-India emergency). Ambulance: 108. Women’s Helpline: 1091. Karnataka Police Tourist Helpline: 112.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pumps are available in the nearest town or on the approach road — check locally for the closest option.

Best time to visit Chitradurga District

October to March is the best time to explore cities in Karnataka — pleasant weather for sightseeing. November to February offers comfortable temperatures perfect for outdoor exploration. Summer (April-June) can be hot — plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening.

Timings & opening hours

City attractions have varying hours. Most shops and markets operate from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Temples and heritage sites typically open 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Malls and restaurants stay open until late.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry fees vary by attraction within the city. Most parks and public spaces are free. Museums: ₹20-₹100 for Indian nationals, ₹100-₹500 for foreign nationals. Heritage sites: nominal entry fee.

Duration needed

2-3 days is ideal to explore the main attractions of the city. A day trip can cover the highlights. Week-long stays allow for in-depth exploration including day trips to nearby attractions.

Safety tips

Karnataka’s cities are generally safe for tourists. Take standard precautions: keep valuables secure, avoid isolated areas after dark, use registered taxis or app-based cabs at night, and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.

Things to carry

Comfortable walking shoes, camera, water bottle, sunscreen, hat, city map or smartphone with navigation, power bank, light jacket for air-conditioned venues, and identification documents.

Nearby visiting places

Nearby attractions include other cities in the region, historical sites, temples, nature spots, and recreational areas within a day-trip distance.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

The city has its own railway station and bus stand. The nearest domestic/international airport connects to major cities. City buses, auto-rickshaws, app-based taxis, and rental cars are available for local transport.

Things to do at Chitradurga District

Explore the city’s heritage sites, museums, and markets. Visit temples, churches, or mosques. Enjoy local cuisine at restaurants and street food stalls. Shop for local handicrafts and specialities. Experience the city’s nightlife and cultural events. Take day trips to nearby attractions.

Things to visit & highlights

Historical landmarks and heritage buildings, museums and art galleries, shopping areas and markets, parks and gardens, religious sites, and cultural centres showcasing local art and performances.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best way to get around the city? Auto-rickshaws, app-based cabs (Uber/Ola), and city buses are available in most Karnataka cities. Walking is ideal for exploring compact city centres.

What local dishes should I try? Karnataka cities offer diverse cuisine — try dosa, idli, bisi bele bath, ragi mudde, and local seafood (in coastal cities). Don’t miss the famous filter coffee.

Is the city safe for solo travellers? Karnataka’s cities are generally safe. Take standard precautions: avoid isolated areas at night, use registered transport, and keep valuables secure.

Quick facts

• Type: Destination
• State: Karnataka
• Category: District Of

Photo gallery of Chitradurga District

Photos coming soon. In the meantime, you can find images of Chitradurga District on popular travel photography sites and social media.