Kanoor Fort is a secluded fort located in Sagara taluka in the district of Shimoga in North West Karnataka. The fortress is situated atop a mighty peak amidst a dense forest of the Western Ghats. The fort is located almost 11 km from Kanoor village which can be reached from Kargal. It is also known as "Keladi Kote" (fort) which means the "Fortress of the Keladi Dynasty" in Kannada language.
The ancient fort at Kanoor was established by Queen Chenna Bhairadevi of the Keladi dynasty. She was more popularly known as "Pepper Queen" as she was exporting pepper to Europe.
The massive fort is located at the top of a hillock and is in the vicinity of the Sharavathi Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. At present, most of the fort structure lies in a ruined state. All that remains of the fort are its dilapidated traces. "Lingams", "Kamadhenu", "Karudan", "Hanuman" and "Snake Swallowing Moon" are some of the stone carving still seen on the outer wall. There is an underground passage to come out of the Fort. This was used during emergency. Though the fort has lost all its grandeur and is left in neglect for the most part, it provides a perfect spot to prolong on a trek, trying to get away from the noise and crowds of civilization. The site is now open to tourist and visitors throughout the year.
How to Reach Kanoor Fort
There are no buses till Kanoor fort, four wheel drive cars and jeeps can reach place till last 5 km and off road bikes can also be taken till fort. Travelling during rainy season is not preferable.
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