Formerly known as Narasimha Angadi, Jamalabad in Belthangady taluk of South Canara district is famous for an 18th century fort.
History: This Fort was built on the ruins of an old Hoysala Fort. Mysuru ruler Tipu Sultan built the fort in 1974 and named it after his mother, Jamalbee.
Highlights of Jamalabad Fort:
- Panoramic views: Top of Jamalabad Fort offers panoramic views of mountains, agricultural fields rivers and valley around.
- Rock Cut steps: Jamalabad Fort is accessible with steep rock cut steps
- An old Jain Basadi: Located at Permannu village on the way to the fort.
Season: Entry to the Fort is permitted between October to May only. Rocks are very slippery during rainy season and hence dangerous to climb.
Venur: Venur near Belthangady is known for 35 ft tall monolithic statue of Gomateshwara. Venur was the capital of Ajilas and remains of their palace could be seen. Venur is on the banks of river Gurpur, 19 kms from Belthangady and 52 kms from Mangaluru.
How to reach: Nadu is the nearest village to access Jamalabad fort. Nadu is 4 kms from the fort in Belthangady taluk. Nadu is 312 kms from Bengaluru and 64 kms from Mangaluru. Kabaka junction in Puttur is the nearest railway station (44 kms) while Mangaluru is the nearest airport (70 kms away)
Stay: Belthangady town (5 kms from Nadu) has few budget hotels. More options are available in Moodubidri, Bantwal and Puttur towns within 50 kms from Nadu.