Participants:
1. Kapil Saxena and family
2. Wife (Chumki) and Myself
Date: 16th September, 2012
Mode of Transport: Tata Indica
The fort is located in a dry and dusty town of Gudibande of Kolar district. Located at a distance of about 95 kms from Bangalore of the NH7 the fort does not seem to generate a lot of interests to the visitors.
Gudibande fort, built by local chieftain Byre Gowda some 400 odd years ago in the 17th century. It can be said as a concise replica of the Madhugiri fort. The fort has seven levels with interconnecting escape routes which would help soldiers to flee in case of emergency.
On the top of the fort is a Shiva temple, which is believed to be one of the 108 Jyotirlingas. The strong pillar with a square base has well sculpted images. One can also have a good view of the Byrasagara reservoir.
The fort’s main feature, is the rain water harvesting. It is said that there were around 19 rock ponds at different levels of the fort, but we were able to get a view of only 4 of them. The rest were either covered with green bushes or else being empty, hence difficulty in figuring it out.
Route Information:
Though a small town, Gudibande is well connected by roads from Chickbalapur, both public as well as private transport being available. In case one is planning to drive across from Bangalore, one needs to hit the NH7 till Peresendra Cross. Just as you reach Peresendra cross (500 meters) you will hit Aruru from where you can take the service road till the cross. Once you reach the cross, take left. The road straight goes to the Gudibande town. As you go on the road, you will see a lot of beautiful green grape yards, flower farms and the grey hill fort which blends hazily with the sky. The road also passes through Amani Byrasagara water reservoir which is the main source of water for the town.
Courtesy:
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/55589/legacy-gudibandes-robinhood.html
YouTube Video:
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