Tamil Nadu is a marvellous state in South India with captivating monuments and beauty. Visitors from all parts of the world such as Portugal and the United Kingdom paid visits to this region and explored the famous forts in Tamilnadu. This is why the state represents an aesthetic blend of art and culture, and thus, is revered as a must-visit place when roaming India.
The place is full of forts that are invincible as they stand stood the war times. Also, these forts & palaces in Tamilnadu of the medieval era were built by the British in India. So to make sure you don’t miss the major places of amusement in Tamil Nadu, here is the list of the forts you must visit when planning a trip to Tamil Nadu.
7 Famous Historical Forts to Visit in Tamil Nadu
1. Gingee Fort
Gingee Fort is one of the famous historical forts & palaces in Tamilnadu. Situated in the Villupuram district, it is a fort that was named ‘Impregnable Fort’ by Chhatrapati Shivaji because of its unique construction. It is also called Senji Fort and holds the history of being ruled by famous dynasties such as Nayaks, Marathas, and Cholas. The eccentric and huge architecture of Gingee Fort and its amazing location above three hills are among the highlights of this fort.
The most impressive architecture of the Gingee Fort includes the Kalyan Mahal, which is constructed in an indo-islamic style. Also, a mosque in the fort is another revered highlight of this one of the famous forts in Tamilnadu.
Also called the ‘Troy of the East’ by the British, the Gingee Fort was primarily built in the 9th century by the Chola dynasties. The fort has a very rich history and amusing tales that are sure to add to your travel experience.
2. Namakkal Fort
Namakkal Fort is popular for its eccentric architecture having an incredible hill and rock structure. This unique formation also works as a natural defences. Namakal is amongst the forts & palaces in Tamilnadu. Thirumalai Nayaar was constructed in the 17th century. The Namakkal Fort complex includes various structures such as a mosque, lake, temple, and other picturesque sceneries surrounding areas.
The fort is the central attraction of the town as it is situated in the centre of the Namakkal district. The two rock-cut temples here make this fort a must-visit. Evening is the best time to visit this place as one enjoys the relaxing views as they end their trip for the day.
3. Vellore Fort
Vellore Fort is situated in Vellore and is the perfect depiction of military architecture. It is undoubtedly an astonishing architectural miracle of Tamil Nadu and one of the forts & palaces in Tamilnadu. Vellore Fort is a massive fort occupying a larger area in Tamil Nadu. The fort was built by the Vijayanagara kings in 1566. Later on, it was refigured by the Marathas and also the British.
This is one of the famous forts in Tamilnadu and is home to various buildings of historical importance such as the Jalakanteswara Temple, the Vellore Fort Museum, etc. The granite walls, magnificent castles, and the tranquil lake surrounding the fort are amongst the few alluring features of the Vellore Fort. This eccentric and fascinating fort is a must-visit in Tamil Nadu.
4. Dindigul Fort
Another majestic beauty and among the must-visit forts & palaces in Tamilnadu is the Dindigul Fort. Situated in the small town of Dindigul, this fort is over 400 years old and has a great history attached to it. From this fort, you get a panoramic view and enjoy lovely weather. Not to mention, the history of this place is captivating enough to help you understand the richness of the place. The huge stone walls and towers are some of the architectural features of this place.
It was built in the 17th century by the Madurai Nayak kings, who emerged as an important contributor to the Carnatic Wars during British rule. Built as a defensive mechanism to safeguard the region from the Mysore army by the Nayakkars of Madurai. This is among the famous forts in Tamilnadu and serves as a great historic amusement and a must-visit place to explore when in Tamil Nadu.
5. Fort Geldria
Fort Geldria is another place worth visiting when roaming the historic towns in Tamil Nadu. It is located on the border of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh and is 50 kilometres from Chennai. The fort was constructed in 1613 by the Dutch East India Company. The name Geldria comes from the native province of Wemmer van Bercham.
This is one of the famous forts in Tamilnadu provides a picturesque view of the Pulicat Lake, which is another object of fortification by the Dutch and a massive saline water lake. Fort Geldria, constructed in 1616, was initially a home for a garrison of 90-130 Dutch troops. Being the only fort built by the Dutch, this monument is a must-see and should be a part of the important places to visit in Tamil Nadu.
6. Fort St. George
Fort St. George is the topmost place to explore without which a trip to Tamil Nadu is incomplete. The fort has a rich history linked with it and is a landmark of the city. Built by the British East India Company in 1640, it is among the primary forts built in India during that time.
Fort St. George is house to many notable structures such as a museum having aesthetic antiques belonging to the British era, a famous ancient angelic church called the St. Mary Church, and the Wellesley House containing alluring paintings. Besides the historical significance, this one of the famous forts in Tamilnadu is now used as the administrative office by the government of Tamil Nadu. So this place is a must-visit and will make your Tamil Nadu itinerary a profound experience.
7. Udayagiri Fort
Udayagiri Fort is the fort situated in the town of Udayagiri and is a fort connected with a Travancore family, which is the ruling house of the kingdom of the same name. This is one of the forts & palaces in Tamilnadu and is preserved with aesthetic antiques, granaries, and remarkable structures. This fort served as a military barrack to the Travancore family. Before that, it was used as a prison where the people protesting against Tipu Sultan were held.
Apart from its military history, the Udayagiri Fort is designed with huge granite blocks and was reshaped by Maharaja Marthanda Varma in the 18th century. The rich history of this palace makes it a must-visit place and a must in the list of the famous forts in Tamilnadu. It is crucial that you explore the crucial monuments in this South Indian region and get a fulfilling travelling experience.
Conclusion
The massive historical forts & palaces in Tamilnadu and the historic storied connected to them are endless. Visiting here, you will not only see the architecture of the medieval era but will get to know about the great stories attached to the monuments. This makes your trip a fulfilling experience as you take the stories with you besides the ambience of these vast forts.
Also, the forts mentioned above are a must-visit famous forts in Tamil Nadu. Of course, there are many palaces of historical significance in Tamil Nadu that would be great to explore. However, the forts listed here shouldn’t be missed and you should get a travelling package that includes visiting the above.
FAQs About Tamil Nadu Historical Forts
What is the famous fort in Tamil Nadu?
Being the oldest fort, Gingee Fort is among the most famous forts in Tamil Nadu. Located in Villupuram, it is placed atop three hills and is a massive structure.
What is the oldest fort in Tamil Nadu?
Gingee Fort is the oldest fort in Tamil Nadu as it was built in the 1st century by Saenji Ananda Kone of Konar, and later on modified by the Chola Dynasty, Vijayanagara Empire.
Which fort is famous in Chennai?
There are many famous forts in Chennai and it is hard to name one. Some of the famous forts include St. George Fort, Fort Geldria, Namakkal Fort, Gingee Fort, etc.
What are the names of the forts in Tamil Nadu?
There are various forts in Tamil Nadu and some of the famous ones include Vellore Fort, St. George Fort, Gingee Fort, and Udayagiri Fort.
What is Fort St. George famous for?
St. George was the first British construction in India and was formerly an uninhabited land. Situated in the coastal region of Chennai, this place served as a place for different traditional activities during those times.
Why is Vellore Fort famous?
Vellore Fort is a remarkable fort because it played a role in India’s struggle as the Vellore Sepoy Mutiny of 1806 CE happened here. This Vellore Mutiny is what makes the fort famous and a must-visit.
