Coonoor, a beautiful hill station located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, is home to several hidden gems that are worth exploring. One such place is the Droog Fort, which is located at an altitude of about 6,000 feet above sea level. In this article, we will take a closer look at the Droog Fort and everything you need to know about it.
1. Introduction
Droog Fort, also known as Bakasura Malai, is a historical fort located in Coonoor. It is situated on the top of a hill and offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and tea plantations. The fort was built by Tipu Sultan, the ruler of Mysore, in the 18th century and was later used by the British during their reign in India. Today, the fort is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the world.
2. History of Droog Fort
The Droog Fort has a rich and fascinating history. It was built by Tipu Sultan in the 18th century to defend his kingdom from the British. The fort was strategically located on top of a hill and was used to keep an eye on the surrounding areas. The fort was later captured by the British during the Anglo-Mysore Wars and was used as a military outpost. During this time, the fort was used to store arms and ammunition and was an important strategic location for the British. Today, the fort stands as a testimony to the rich history of the region.
3. Architecture of Droog Fort
The Droog Fort is a beautiful example of ancient Indian architecture. The fort is made of stone and has a unique design that reflects the art and culture of the region. The fort has several bastions and a moat that surrounds it. The fort also has a secret tunnel that was used by Tipu Sultan to escape during times of war. The architecture of the fort is a testament to the rich history and culture of the region.
4. Trek to Droog Fort
One of the best ways to reach the Droog Fort is by trekking. The trek to the fort is a moderately difficult trek that takes about 2 hours to complete. The trek starts from the base of the hill and takes you through lush green forests and tea plantations. The trek is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the region and is highly recommended for adventure enthusiasts.
5. Wildlife around Droog Fort
The Droog Fort is located in the middle of a wildlife sanctuary and is home to a variety of flora and fauna. The region is home to several species of birds, animals, and reptiles. Visitors can spot species like the Indian giant squirrel, sambar deer, and the Indian bison in their natural habitat. The region is also home to several species of snakes, so visitors are advised to be cautious while exploring the area.
6. Best time to visit Droog Fort
The best time to visit Droog Fort is between the months of October and March. The weather during this time is pleasant and ideal for exploring the fort and the surrounding areas The temperature during this time ranges from 10°C to 20°C, which makes it perfect for trekking and outdoor activities. The monsoon season, which falls between June and September, is not a suitable time to visit the fort as the region receives heavy rainfall and the terrain can be slippery and dangerous.
7. Things to carry while visiting Droog Fort
When visiting the Droog Fort, it is important to carry some essentials to ensure a comfortable and safe experience. Some of the things to carry are:
- Comfortable trekking shoes
- Water bottle
- Sunscreen lotion
- Hat or cap
- Insect repellent
- Snacks
8. Nearby attractions to visit
Coonoor is home to several other attractions that are worth exploring. Some of the nearby attractions to visit are:
- Sim’s Park
- Lamb’s Rock
- Dolphin’s Nose
- Catherine Falls
- Law’s Falls
9. Accommodation options near Droog Fort
There are several accommodation options near the Droog Fort that cater to different budgets and preferences. Some of the popular options are:
- Taj Gateway Hotel
- Kurumba Village Resort
- The Gateway Hotel Church Road
- Sunvalley Homestay
10. How to reach Droog Fort
The Droog Fort is located about 13 km from Coonoor and can be reached by road. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a local bus from Coonoor to reach the base of the hill. From there, they can trek to the fort or hire a local guide to take them to the fort.
11. Entry fee and timings
There is no entry fee to visit the Droog Fort. The fort is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset.
12. Safety measures to keep in mind
While visiting the Droog Fort, visitors are advised to keep the following safety measures in mind:
- Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes while trekking to the fort
- Carry enough water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized
- Be cautious while exploring the fort as some parts of it may be slippery or uneven
- Do not disturb the wildlife in the area and maintain a safe distance from them
Conclusion
The Droog Fort is a fascinating historical site that offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region. The fort is a great destination for adventure enthusiasts, history buffs, and nature lovers alike. With its stunning architecture, natural beauty, and rich history, the Droog Fort is definitely worth a visit when in Coonoor.
FAQs
- Is the trek to Droog Fort difficult?
- The trek to Droog Fort is moderately difficult and takes about 2 hours to complete.
- Can we spot wildlife around Droog Fort?
- Yes, Droog Fort is located in the middle of a wildlife sanctuary and visitors can spot several species of birds, animals, and reptiles in their natural habitat.
- What are some nearby attractions to visit in Coonoor?
- Some of the nearby attractions to visit in Coonoor are Sim’s Park, Lamb’s Rock, Dolphin’s Nose, Catherine Falls, and Law’s Falls.
- What is the best time to visit Droog Fort?
- The best time to visit Droog Fort is between the months of October and March.
- Is there an entry fee to visit Droog Fort?
- No, there is no entry fee to visit Droog Fort.