GOLCONDA FORT
Golconda fort is absolutely one of most magnificent fortresses in India. it is a wonderful example of incredible architecture.Golconda, also called, Golconda ("Round shaped hill"), or Golla Konda, (Shepherd's Hill) It was initially called Shepherd’s Hill,meaning Golla Konda in Telugu while according to legend, on this rocky hill a shepherd boy had come across an idol and the information was conveyed to the ruling Kakatiya king at that time. Another name is Mankal, it was ruled by Kakatiya dynasty in(1083 to 1323)12th century ,after that several dynasties ruled those were Musunuri Nayaks, Bahamani Sultans, Qutb Shahi dynasty and Mughal Empire .is a citadel and fort in Southern India and was the capital of the medieval state of the Qutub Shahi .
The region is known for the mines that have produced some of the world's most famous gems, including the Koh-i-Noor, the Hope Diamond, Nassak Diamond and the Noor-ul-Ain.
The history of Golconda
It was originally known as Mankal, and built on a hilltop in the year 1143 fort under the reign of Rajah of
Warangal.
Early 13th century, Golconda was ruled by the Kakatiya’s
In 14th century by the Bahmani Sultans
In 16th and 17th century it was ruled by Qutub Shahi kings and
In 1687 it was ruled by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb
Construction of the Golconda Fort
It was originally a mud fort during the reign of Rajah of Warangal. Later the fort was built on a granite hill that is 120 meters (390 ft) high, encircled by massive battlements. The fort was rebuilt and strengthened by rani Rudrama Devi and her successor Prataparudra. Later it was fortified by the Bahmani Sultans and then the ruling Qutub Shahi dynasty. Golconda was the principal capital of the Qutub Shahi kings. The inner fort contains ruins of palaces, mosques and a hill top pavilion, which rises about 130 meters high and gives a bird’s eye view of other buildings.
- Golconda Fort consists of 87 semi-circular bastions with a great wall of 10 km and 8 arches 4 drawbridges royal
mansions, halls, temples, mosque’s, and gardens, tombs of kings, kalamandir, Taramti Mosque,sri Ramdas jail,
Camel Stable. - The BalaHissar is the main entrance to the fort it is the eastern side of the fort and the arch pointed with good Scroll
works and the door designed with good peacocks. - The outermost enclosure is called Fateh Darwaza meaning Victory gate, after Aurangzeb’s army marched successfully through this gate.
- At Fateh Darwaza one can witness fantastic acoustical effects, which is one among the many famous engineering marvels at Golconda.
- There is a secret underground pathway from Golkonda fort to Charminar.
- The magic of fort is its acoustics system for protection of enemies they are designed if we clap any of certain point of the dome the sound reverberates and heard at Bala Hisser.
- It is one of the best tourists places in Hyderabad, Telangana People from different state and countries visit this fort. There are guides available and also the importance of the fort is explained for tourists through Sound and Lighting effect. The history of the fort is explained in different languages like Telugu,Hindi,English.
The show timings are: Nov to Feb (Evening 6:30)
Mar to Oct (Evening 7:00)
duration of show is 55min ,
The show explained in English: Wednesday & Sunday
Hindi : Thursday,Friday,&Saturday
Telugu: Tuesday
Monday is holiday
How to reach Golconda Fort
Golconda Fort is Located around 11 km from the city Hyderabad the fort is easily accessible by all modes of local transport. Hyderabad city is well connected with latest railways and air ways. Thus, reaching the fort is very easy for the visitors from any place.