Situated opposite the city market, Tipu's Fort is known for the beautifully carved arches in Islamic style on the gate walls. Originally built in mud by Kempe Gowda in 1537 AD, the fort was extended and fortified by Tipu Sultan. Kempe Gowda built a brick and mud defence structure on this site in 1537 AD.

In the 18th century, it was solidly rebuilt in stone by Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan. It's a sturdy, little fort, though much of it was destroyed during the wars with the British. The fort is well known for the well-preserved Ganapathi Temple within its precincts and it still attracts many devotees. One of the temple's outer walls carries an exquisite carving of Sri Krishna playing his flute.

In this fort, Tipu's father Hyder Ali imprisoned David Baird along with a number of British army officers.