If you are looking for a quick road trip from Bangalore with a side of history and nature, look no further than the majestic Manjarabad Fort in Sakleshpur. Manjarabad Fort is one of those majestic forts that has stood the test of time and offers visitors stunning views, a peaceful picnic spot, and a chance to catch up on history. It's a four-hour drive (about 230 kilometres) from Bangalore, making it the perfect destination for a quick road trip.
Manjarabad Fort, atop a hillock, is one of the many forts built by Tipu Sultan. The fort was built in the year 1792 and was modelled after the forts in France. It is known for its unique star-shaped design. Although the shape is hard to tell from ground level; if you were to walk around the perimeter, you would get an idea. The eight walls with the bastions that project out like arrowheads give the fort its unique shape. This was done to ensure that there were no dead spots.
According to legend, many underground tunnels connect Manjarabad Fort to Mysore as well as Srirangapatna Fort. Unfortunately, these are closed by the tourism board, and there goes anyone's chance of being the next Indiana Jones. But hey, there are plenty of spots in and around the fort to make your best Harrison Ford impression, so you'd probably want to take a photographer friend to click the best ones.
The views are amazing, given that it's above 3,000 meters above sea level. On a good day, you can see as far as the Arabian Sea. On a bad day, use a drone to capture this. While there are no specific instructions or signage that say you can't fly a drone, there's a chance that the security guards might stop you from using one.
How To Reach Manjarabad Fort
Manjarabad Fort is located about 230 kilometres or a 4-hour drive from Bangalore. You can reach Sakleshpur via trains that ply daily between Bangalore and Sakleshpur. There are also KSRTC and private buses that ply the route.
Best Time To Visit & Timings Of Manjarabad Fort
The best time to go is during the monsoon season as the mist usually engulfs the fort. Tipu Sultan named the fort after the mist that engulfed it once it was built. Manjara in Kannada means fog or mist.
Manjarabad Fort is open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM
Places To Stay & Eat Near Manjarabad Fort
There are a few homestays and resorts in and around Manjarabad Fort such as Doddamane Mandara Homestay, ViGo Homes, and Cliff Hanger Homestay, and for eating options, you'll have to head back into Sakleshpur town.
