Rayakottai, is a small sleepy town near Hosur in Tamil Nadu. This is home to Tipu Sultan’s one of the hill forts in the eastern side. The structures are in ruins, but it is worth visiting.
This for is situated just 74 km from Bangalore, The trek to a fort on the hilltop is a good one-day outing around Bangalore. it’s a very easy trek for beginners and ideal for family and friends.
The fort is situated within the town of Rayakottai which is one of the ancient fortress in the Krishnagiri district. It is now one of the protected monuments by the Archaeological Survey of India. In the 18th century, Hyder Ali and Tipu sultan ruled this fort. The fort was captured by Major Gowdie during the third Anglo-Mysore War in 1791. According to the Treaty of Srirangapatna, this fort came into the hands of the British.
This place is highly recommended for travel enthusiasts who are prepared for light trek. The climb should not take more than 2 hours including breaks and the decent should be fairly quick.
There are two peaks, both can climb easily, one peak top has temple. The peak provides breath-taking panoramic views of the towns and villages around. The fort ruins atop are very beautiful, and they provide a great insight into the history. It is worth spending a day hiking this hill to see the fort.
It is one of the best hikes I have done from Bangalore as there are less number of people and is not a very hard hike. hence it is less no. of people or no one you can see there, I would not recommend hiking this hill solo, I am suggesting going with friends or even with some trekking providers.
Carry sufficient water. There is no source of water on top of the peak or even around the base of the hill and There are no shops around so ensure to take packed lunch and snacks.
The path has no shade anywhere so it can get difficult when hiking during summers. Ensure to start the hike really early.
Do not throw litter anywhere. Please respect nature and dispose your garbage only in proper garbage bins or carry them back with you if you do not find any garbage bins.
How to get to Rayakottai Fort?
Even though Rayakottai Hill is in Tamil Nadu, it is closer to Bangalore.
so, you can reach there with public transport or your own vehicle.
By own vehicle – NH7 towards Hosur, At Hosur, turn right at the signal towards Rayakottai after the flyover. From there Rayakottai is around 35 kms.
From Bangalore the total distance is around 75 km. At the bus stand ask for directions to the fort.
By public transport: There are plenty of buses plying from Bangalore to Hosur. At Hosur there are frequent buses to Rayakottai.
Rail: One can also try train (56514 Salem Passenger) from Bangalore City Junction to Rayakottai station. The train departs at 07:15 from Bangalore City Jn. Return train to Bangalore is at 16:08.
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