Gingee Fort, also known as Senji Fort, is a historical citadel in Tamil Nadu, India, consisting of three hill parts: Rajagiri, Krishnagiri, and Chandrayandurg. The fort’s architecture includes a multi-layered defensive structure with deep moats, holy places, food repositories, and financial reserves. It was a strategic watch station for various dynasties, including the Cholas, Vijayanagara Empire, Marathas, Mughals, and the British. The fort is preserved by the Archaeological Survey of India and the World Monuments Fund, with efforts to repair the Venkataramana Temple, fort walls, and bastions.
Gingee Fort History
Gingee Fort, also often called Senji Fort, is a historical Citadel located in Tamil Nadu, India. This fort has three significant hill parts: Rajagiri, Krishnagiri, and Chandrayandurg. The Venkataraman Temple adjacent to the central tower on the south side of the fort and the Kalyana Mahal near the north side entrance are among the main attractions of this fort.
Architecture of Gingee Fort
The most important architecture of the Gingee King Fort is given below.
- Rajagiri
- Krishnagiri
- Chandrayan Durg
Rajagiri
This is the tallest among the three forts, standing at 800 feet. As the name suggests, Rajagiri(“Raja”-King “giri”-Hill), this fort, a regal abode, was a multi-layered defensive structure that included vertical inclined walls and deep moats. Moat used to serve as a strategic stronghold ditch filled with water that acted as a barrier preventing the enemy from reaching the fort walls. This ditch was home to deadly crocodiles and served as an additional layer of protection against invaders. This fort held holy places, food repositories and financial reserves.
Krishnagiri
This hill also served as another safeguard stronghold capable of handling foreign invader assaults. The underground chambers, accessible by cleverly camouflaged secret stairs, served as hideaways for troops and stored ammunition.
The concealed routes via tunnels connected Gingee Fort to Vellore Fort. At the time of the invasion, the Sovereigns and high-ranking officers used these tunnels for safe escape. The fort consisted of towers, outlets, water reservoirs such as lakes, and a canal. This fort acted as a secondary border patrol station for Rajagiri, making it a critical watch station.
- Towers,
- Outlets,
- Water reservoirs
Chandrayan Durg
This Moon fort is the smallest of the three. Though less notable in size, this intelligence outpost, with its sheer cliffs, protected from the eastern side.
The strategic importance of this fort led to its government by a succession of powerful dynasties:
- The Cholas, Vijayanagara Empire(1336-1646)
- Marathas(1674-1818)
- Mughals(1526-1756)
- the British(1757-1947)
The Trek Climb to the Top of Gingee King Fort.
As per regulations, trekking is not allowed after 5:00 PM. One should take care of dangerous slopes, wildlife, and sharp falls. The fort provides a panoramic view of lush greenery and a beautiful sky. During peak summer, this trek should be avoided. If you start early, you can avoid crowds and heat to have a pleasant, calm experience.
Preservation of Gingee Fort in Modern Times
The Archaeological Survey of India preserves this fort in collaboration with the Tamil Nadu State Department. The World Monuments Fund also provides financial aid. Signs and lighting have been installed for easy navigation. Conservation efforts include repairing Venkataramana Temple, fort walls, Kalyana Mahal, and bastions.
Visitor Information
Here are a few crucial informational points that will help you before visiting the Gingee Fort.
- This fort is located in Villupuram, Tamil Nadu, 70 km away from Pondicherry and 160 km from Chennai
- Entry fees for Indians are 25/per person, and for Foreigners, are 300/per person. The last entry ticket is available by 3:00 PM.
- Tour guides can speak English, Tamil and Hindi.
- Parking, Food, Water and restrooms are available near the entrance of the fort.
- It is a good idea to wear comfortable shoes and light clothing to roam around the fort, trek, and carry water bottles.
- The safety instructions should always be followed.
Gingee Fort Photos
Gingee Fort is a marvel of architectural brilliance, with centuries-old buildings and spaces. Below are some of the most captivating images of the fort.
Conclusion
A one-day visit to the Gingee Fort is a perfect idea if you are an adventure seeker and enthusiastic about history. It will give you a great idea about the historical culture of Tamil Nadu and provide a gateway to escape the fast city life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many steps are in Gingee Fort?
There are over 1000 steps that you need to make in order to reach the top of the fort.
How long does it take to climb the Gingee fort?
Climbing the Gingee Fort takes around an hour, but it will take longer if you want to enjoy the scenic views.
How to reach Gingee Fort?
People can easily reach it as it is accessible by road and does not have any significant hurdles.
What is the Speciality of Gingee Fort?
The fort is 240m above the ground and has many granaries, prison cells, a traditional gym, and a temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Chenjiamman.
What is the best time to visit Gingee Fort?
Considering Tamil Nadu’s quite hot weather throughout the year, the best time to visit the fort in soothing temperatures is from November to February/August to December.
Who built the Gingee King fort?
This fort, originally started by the Chola Empire, was built over several periods. The Vijayanagara Empire expanded it, and the Maratha Empire modified it further.
Which is the largest fort in Tamil Nadu?
Vellore Fort, Gingee Fort, and Thirumayam Fort make to this list.
Which district is Gingee in?
This fort is located in the Viluppuram region of Tamil Nadu.
What are Gingee’s fort timings?
This Gingee fort is open between 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
What is Gingee fort’s meaning in Tamil?
The original name, Senji, is attributed to Red or Lion Hill.
We recently visited this fort. While on road trip, discovered this hidden gem as a pleasant surprise. It’s way beyond our expectations and good to see govt is taking steps to preserve this beautiful monument. Thanks for writing detailed article. It will sury help others to explore a new less known, less crowded place.
Agreed Vamsi 👌👐🏻
Never been to south but the article does help us understand the importance of the fort . Looks good in the pictures would like to see it in real-time someday .
Makes me want to visit the fort!! Thanks for throwing a light on this part of TN.
A very helpful and insightful narration of the place and things to do…
Would certainly help for visitors visiting for the first time 🤝