The name Hosur in 'Kanarese' means 'new town'. A large fort situated in this town is ascribed to one 'captain Hamilton', and two other prisoners who were compelled by Tippu Sultan to assist in strengthening his forts. The fort has long out ramparts with a moat deep and wide and a glacis carefully levelled. Within the fort precincts, there is a temple called 'Kottai Mariamman temple', dedicated to Shakti, is popular among the people of Hosur. Lord Chandrasundeswarar temple atop a hill is popular and the annual festival is attended by thousands of pilgrims from Karnataka.