About Golconda Fort
Golconda fort, situated in Hyderabad, the capital city of Andhra Pradesh,
is a majestic monument. It lies in the western outskirts of the city. It
represents a great cultural heritage of 400 years and is regarded as a place
worth visiting. Built by Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah in 1525, it stands as the
memorabilia of Nawabi culture and grandeur.
One of the famous forts in India, it's name originates from the Telugu
words "Golla Konda" meaning "Shepherd's Hill". This fort
was originally a mud fort in the Kakatiyas period, which was then passed to
the Bahmani dynasty and later to the Qutb Shahis, who held it from 1518 to
1687 A.D. The first three Qutb Shahi kings rebuilt Golconda, over a span of
62 years.
The fort is renowned for its acoustics, palaces, factories, ingenious water
supply system and the famous Fateh Rahben gun, one of the cannons used in
the last siege of Golconda by Aurangzeb, to whom the fort ultimately fell.
The Architecture
The fantastic architecture of the Golconda fort is spell bounding. It has a
acoustic system and ingenious
water
supply system. Golconda is built on a granite hill 120m high, and is
surrounded by crenelated ramparts constructed of large masonry blocks
weighing several tonnes. The design of the ventilation reveals the brilliant
planning of the architects; they are designed beautifully to let the flowing
fresh cool breeze come inside the fort, which is a respite from the heat of
summer.
The massive gates are studded with large pointed iron spikes to prevent
elephants from battering them down. The outer wall surrounding the entire
township of Golconda, is about 11-km long, and is strongly bastioned.
Other Attractions near the Fort
Char Minar
A beautiful monument marking the glory of the rulers of Hyderabad. It has
four intricately carved minars. Apart from these this majestic monument has
exquisite arches and domes that just keep you dumb struck. It is one of the
major attractions in Hyderabad.
Mecca Masjid
Mecca Masjid is a famous mosque of South India and was built in the year
1614, the construction of this masjid was started by the 6th Sultan Abdullah
Qutb Shah and completed by Aurangzeb. The clay from Mecca mixed with red
color was used for stucco decorations at the entrance of the Masjid.
Hussain Sagar Lake
This Lake is a link between the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad.
A major attraction at the Hussain Sagar is the 16-meter high, 350 tonne
monolithic Buddha statue on the Rock of Gibraltar. Hussain Sagar also offers
myriad opportunities for water sports lovers. Apart from these, there are
many more attractions near the Golconda fort.
The Sound and Light Show
This show narrates the glorious past of Golconda Fort which is matchless.
The unique Sound & Light Show takes you right back in time, when
Golconda was full of life, glory and grandeur. The show is presented in
English, Hindi and Telugu.
Getting There
Air : Hyderabad can be reached by air, from all the major cities of
the country.
Rail : Hyderabad is well connected by rail to all parts of the
country.
Road : There is a regular bus service to Hyderabad from many cities
in southern, central and southeastern parts of the country.
Accommodation
Hyderabad has plenty of accommodation options available, ranging from
luxury to economy class.
