Madikeri Fort

Madikeri Fort, historically known as Mercara Fort, is a prominent military installation located in Madikeri within the Kodagu district of Karnataka, India. Originally constructed in the second half of the 17th century by Mudduraja, a king from the Bedanur royal house, the structure served as a strategic stronghold for the region. The fort underwent significant transformation in the late 18th century when Tipu Sultan rebuilt and restructured it using granite, subsequently renaming the site Jaffarabad. Following Tipu's reign, control shifted to Dodda Vira Rajendra in 1790, with further renovations to the internal palace carried out by Linga Rajendra II between 1812 and 1814. The British later made additional modifications to the complex in 1834, leaving a layered architectural legacy that reflects the diverse rulers who governed Kodagu.

Today, the fort remains in good condition and is controlled by the Government of Karnataka, serving primarily administrative and cultural functions. The palace building inside the fort currently houses the Madikeri Deputy Commissioner's Office, continuing its long history as a seat of power. A notable feature of the site is St. Mark's Church, located in the southeast corner and built in 1859 by soldiers of the East India Company. This church now contains the Madikeri Fort Museum, which is managed by the Karnataka State Archaeological Department. The museum displays an extensive collection of artifacts and weaponry spanning from the fort's construction through the British era, alongside a large portrait of Field Marshal K. M. Cariappa. Visitors can also observe two distinctive stone elephant statues guarding the northeast entry, adding to the historical ambiance of this well-preserved landmark.