Droog Fort is an important tourist spot in the Nilgiris District in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The fort is situated around 13 km from Coonoor. The fort is also known by another name called "Bakasura Malai" and this name has a link with a legend of a local devil named Bakasura.
The Droog Fort is almost 6,000 ft in height above the plains and is in complete ruined state. A crumbling wall stands as a remainder of the once proud fortress. There is a watch tower at the top from where one can get breathtaking views of the misty surroundings. The peak is at an elevation of about 2,000 m. Droog takes one into the past, with the ruins of a fort, which was formerly used by Tipu Sultan in the 16th century. Tipu Sultan; the "Tiger of Mysore" used the fort as an outpost. Nowadays, only a wall remains of this military outpost. Droog Fort is a significant place for bird watching. One can also enjoy sight seeing from the top of this fort. The site is in fact the ruins of a dilapidated fort built by Tipu Sultan.
Attractions at Droog Fort
Catherine Falls, Lamb`s Rock, Sim`s Park, Law`s Falls, Dolphin`s Nose, Katary Falls, Wellington"s Golf Course and St. George`s Church are other famous tourist points near the fort. Birdwatchers can have a good time as a lot of rare species of birds populate the area.
How to Reach Droog Fort
To reach the fort tourists visiting the place need to engage in a scenic trek through the Nonsuch Tea Estate. One has to trek for almost 3 km through tea estates and shrubs to reach the summit. Vehicles can go only upto Tan Tea Estate after which it is a steep climb upwards. The trek may prove a bit difficult for elders and children. One can reach Coonoor by an ecstatic ride in the metre gauge railway line from Mettupalayam or Ooty. Hiring a cab from these towns is another option.
The Fort allows travellers to get a glimpse of the natural splendour of the area as well as enjoy the panoramic view of the magnificent hill station. The weather is so pleasant one can plan to visit the fort at any time of the year.