We have exciting news for you! We have opened new stargazing groups at Channarayandurga!Enquire Now
TREK DIFFICULTY
Easy
TREK DURATION
2 days
STATE
Karanataka
Climb to an ancient fort with dominating views
Channarayana Durga Trek is located near to Madhugiri in the Tumkur district of Karnataka. A trek that is very close to our hearts at Indiahikes since it reveals many surprises as you go climbing through each of its layers of the fort.
The trek is very much accessible and close to the state highway 9 connecting Madhugiri and Dabbaspet. The beautiful majestic fort reminds you of medieval times that was used as a strategic fortress in this region of Madhugiri and Tumkur. It is one of the Navadurgas around Bangalore.
The entire fort is divided into multiple layers and sections. One can clearly see the brilliant minds that went into the design and structure of this fort that was built during the 16th century. The fort is daunting to you right from the time you are starting the trek from the base and it gets grandiose as you come closer.
Reviews by our trekkers
Vidyadhar Kusur
Channarayan Durga | Group of February 2024
Achilles S
Channarayan Durga | Stargazing trek | Group of October 2024
Channarayana Durga - Complete Trek Information
We have always wanted trekkers to be well-informed before they go on any trek. Knowledge is the difference between a safe trek and a dangerous one. It’s also the difference between a wholesome experience and a superficial experience.
Use this section to learn about the Indiahikes Southern Campus trek. It has in-depth information about each day of the trek, what to expect, and how you need to prepare for it. Many years of expertise have gone into this content. Don’t miss the 'Frequently Asked Questions' section at the end. Trekkers find that extremely useful.
The Indiahikes Spirit of Trekking
We're always ready for adventure
Trekking comes with uncertainty. Weather, terrain, and setbacks are part of the journey. We embrace them with resilience and openness—each challenge makes us stronger and more appreciative of nature's beauty.
We embrace low-noise trekking
We blend into nature, not the other way around. We avoid shouting, loud music, and noisy games. In silence, we hear birdsong, streams, and the wind—inviting peace, reflection, and a deeper connection with nature.
We protect the environment
We protect the environment by minimising waste, reusing resources, and picking up litter. We carry eco-bags, segregate waste, and inspire others to preserve trails. Sustainable trekking ensures these mountains remain beautiful for future generations.
We are self-sufficient
We carry our load as much as possible, manage our gear, and stay prepared for all situations. Self-sufficiency builds confidence, independence, and respect for fellow trekkers, support staff, and the trail itself.
We support each other
Trekking is not a solo act. We wait for each other, share burdens, and uplift teammates. By putting the group first, we build strong bonds and help everyone complete the trek joyfully.
We are fit and prepared
We train well before our treks. This helps us walk longer, handle emergencies, and contribute to the team. Fitness ensures we are never a burden and always ready to help when needed.
Photo Gallery
Watch these videos to get a glimpse of the trek
Read More on the Channarayana Durga Weekend Trek
Highlights from Channarayana Durga Trek
What are the highlights from Channarayana Durga Trek
|| Trek Trivia ||
Grand History of Channarayana Durga
The Beginning
The Channarayana Durga fort was built in 1513 AD, Channappa Gowda Chikkabhoopala. The fort architecture is similar to that in Chitradurga, popularly referred to as ‘yelu suttina kote’. The design has narrow passages and false entrances to aid in defense.
Chikkabhoopala had 3 sons - Thontendra, Channappa Gowda, Sappendra. Both elder kids die at an early age. In remembrance, the fort is named after the 2nd son. Last surviving son Sappendra also had 3 sons who were given Midigeshi, Madhugiri and Channarayana Durga to administer.
Kalappa Gowda handled administration of Channarayana Durga. But his two sons Ramappa Gowda and Thimmappa Gowda feud for control over the fort. Thimmappa Gowda seeks support from then Mysore ruler Chikka Devaraja Wodeyar.
Eventually, the entire region of Madhugiri and Tumkur was brought under Mysore kingdom rule by the 1670s. Both the brothers - Ramappa Gowda and Thimmappa Gowda are imprisoned, ending the long standing feudal rule.
Around the same timeline, the control over Bengaluru is also bought from then emperor Aurangzeb for around 3 Lacs.
Action!
After the demise of Chikka Devaraja Wodeyar and emperor Aurangzeb in the early 1700s, the influence of Mysore kingdom weakened. Eventually by the mid 1700s - 1762 AD, the control of the fort was taken over by Hyder Ali and then passed on to Tippu Sultan after his demise around 1782 AD.
Tippu further fortified the fort with brick & mortar extensions with gun & cannon holes to support modern weaponry. The fort was also converted into a garrison (weapons & gunpowder store). Iron ore in the surrounding area was mined and smelted (melted with sulfur & potassium nitrate) at the fort.
The fort became an important supplier of raw materials that was transported to weapon manufacturing factories in Bengaluru, Srirangapatna, Chitradurga and Nagara. These were known as Thaaramandala petes, manufacturing gunpowder, pellets, guns, rockets and also advanced weapons such as missiles. The finished weapons made their way into bunker style armories in Bengaluru (now Kalasipalya) and Srirangapatna.
After the Britishes took over, it was proposed by Arthur Wellesly in the early 1800s to create a permanent garrison owing to its significant geographical and historical advantages. It was deemed to be one of the most dependable forts to defend in the entire kingdom of Mysore.
However, it did not materialize and the garrison was eventually shifted to cantonment in Bengaluru. In the mid 1900s, under the supervision of Lord Cornwallis, the armories provided a constant supply of gunpowder and weaponry into Britain which eventually was utilized in the world war against Germany.
Thus, this fort has always had its importance and relevance throughout its 500+ years history.
As it stands now
Although the fort is not yet popular with the tourists, it has been plagued by treasure hunters for many decades. The place has been dug up irresponsibly in search of rumored treasures, precious stones, idols and historic foundation stones.
The fort, as always, endures all and continues its legacy for many more centuries to come.
Fun fact : Popular song in 1980 Kannada movie Bangarada Jinke (Vishnivardhan & Bharathi) - “Olume Siriya Kandu” was shot at this fort. Gives us a glimpse of how it was 45 years ago.
Credit & References :
Dharmendra Kumar Arenahalli (Historian, Author, Researcher)
5 Reasons Why Indiahikes
Our No-Compromise Safety Promise
We are known for our pioneering safety practices in trekking. Microspikes, oximeters, and BP checks became standards thanks to us. In the mountains, emergencies don't care who you're with—everyone knows that when trouble hits, you look for the yellow tents of Indiahikes. When you join our treks, we first make our No-Compromise Safety Promise. It’s our unwavering commitment to keep you safe, no matter what.
Our No-compromise Sustainability promise
Our commitment to the environment is relentless. We don’t just encourage responsible trekking; we insist on it. That’s why our Green Trails principles are non-negotiable. They don’t involve just our trekkers or our staff members. Our entire trek processes and policies are designed to favour the environment, even if it is often counterintuitive to our business.
We are India’s largest trekking organisation
More than 30,000 trekkers trek with us every year. In addition, our outdoor learning division (InSoul) has participants from the who’s of the education organisation in India, from the IIMs to BITS to top international schools. More than 5,000 participants from these institutions trek with us annually. We do not spend a single rupee on advertising to get these participants. Our reputation precedes us.
Being pioneers of trekking in India
We are pioneers in trekking. Since 2007, we have documented and brought out most of India’s famous treks: Roopkund, Rupin Pass, Buran Ghati, Kedarkantha, Kashmir Great Lakes, Tarsar Marsar, Phulara Ridge—the list goes on. In 2023-24 alone, we brought out nine new treks in Indian trekking. We know treks better than anyone. This comes directly from the reason why Indiahikes was born: to bring out trek information and enable trekkers to trek on their own. We believe everyone must trek.
Our treks are transformative
We focus on designing transformative experiences. Our trek leaders conduct thought-provoking exercises that help you reflect and contemplate. This impact stays with you for a long time. Trekkers return feeling energised, more confident, or developing abilities to deal with difficulties. Many have changed careers, rethought their core values, become more humble, shown gratitude to others, or started a new fitness journey.
Treks by Categories
Follow Us On
Contact Us
080 468 01269
Mon to Fri - 9.30 AM to 7.30 PM
Sat and Sun - 9.30 AM to 6.30 PM
Bengaluru Office
139, Defence Colony Road, Defence Layout, Sahakar Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka - 560092
Dehradun Office
Mohabbewala, Titan Road, Near Titan Factory, Chandramani Khalsa Dehradun - 248002