Chandragiri Fort, Kerala

Chandragiri Fort, built in the 17th century, is in Kasargod District of Kerala, south India. This large squarish fort is 150 ft above sea level and occupies an area of about seven acres by the side of the river Payaswini. The fort is now in ruins.

The fort has an eventful history. In earlier days, the river was considered to be the border of two powerful kingdoms - Kolathunadu and Thulunadu. When Thulunadu was captured by the Vijayanagara Empire, the Kolathunadu kings lost the Chandragiri region to them. During the decline of the Vijayanagara Empire, the area was administratively looked after by the Keladi Nayakas of Ikkeri. When the Vijayanagara Empire fell in the 16th century, Vengappa Nayaka declared independence. Later Shivappa Nayaka took over the reins. He built a chain of forts of which Chandragiri is part.