The Deccan Defence Line

Deccan Defence Line

While the Navadurgas guarded the city from within, these four massive forts formed the ultimate line of defence for the ancient South. This mission is not a hill climb; it is a historical siege. The heat is unforgiving, the distance is brutal, and the logistical planning is essential.

4 Forts. 4 Fronts. 1 Successful Breach. The goal is to track the historical line of battle, document the remaining architecture, and survive the physical and mental toll of this northern gauntlet. 

This docket is a combination of both treks and rides, making it a fun mix-up. Let's see if you can complete all of them and comment below, all the very best! 💪

The Deccan Defence Line

The BIG 4 FORTS:

1. CHITRADURGA (Fort of Stone)

Distance = 250km (one way)

Experience = Whole day walk and climb is optional. 

Chitradurga means “picturesque fort” and it truly stands by that name with all honour. There are about 20 temples within the fort walls. The battle strategies, architecture, and ancient buildings take you back to wartime. This fort is located 120 km away from Hampi. Obbavana Kindi is another major attraction at this fort. My personal suggestion for first-timers: go on a weekday during the monsoon, hire a guide to immerse yourself in the place, and return. (You can thank me later :P) And yes you can club Vanivilas Sagara Dam along with this run.

Visit the full detailed log here: Chitradurga Fort & Vanivilas Sagara Dam

Chitradurga Fort

2. MADAKASIRA (The Desert Outpost)

Distance = 150km (one way)

Experience = Easy/Moderate. (The only point is technical; now they have put a rope to pull yourself up)

This is what we like to call the boa's fort. The trek is simple. But the feeling you get venturing into the boa's belly is superb. Remember, the fort itself is not the end; there is a last point where a calm Nandi awaits. That is the end of this mission.

Visit the full detailed log here: Madakasira Fort Trek.

Madakasira Fort Trek

3. LEPAKSHI (The Ceasefire)

Distance = 150km (one way)

Experience = Mostly a ride and exploration.

The ride, especially in summer, is brutal. But the exploration of the place is really beautiful. The history behind the place is something you must read before you head out as you will appreciate the place more. You can witness the size of plates in which Pandavas ate, the hanging pillar, the Naga rock structure and a big monolith Nandi.  

Visit the full detailed log here: Lepakshi.

Lepakshi

4. PENUKONDA (The Border Sentinel)

Distance = 150km (one way)

Trek = Mostly a ride and exploration. Earlier, it was an off-road. Now, good roads have been laid.

If you are interested in checking your bike performance, then this is the place. The ride to the top is awesome. And ruins of forts welcome you at the top. Back when we had been to the place, it was even cruder and the complete ride to the top of on mud and gravel. Unfortunately, now good roads are there, but still, the road is good to ride on, I heard. 

Visit the full detailed log here: Penukonda Fort Ride.

Penukonda Fort Ride