Unveiling The Mystries Of Golconda Fort India

Posted on Friday, August 30th, 2024 by Sakshi Goyal

Golconda Fort is located in Hyderabad, India. It is a historic fort known for its strategic location and strategic defences. Initially built by the Kakatiya dynasty and expanded by the Qutb Shahi kings, the fort features a 10-kilometre-long outer wall with 87 bastions, intricate gateways, and drawbridges. The Golconda Fort India has some beautiful features including the iconic “Fateh Darwaza” (Victory Gate), known for its defensive spikes and unique acoustics. Inside, the fort there are royal apartments, temples, mosques, and other structures reflecting the past. Once known for the diamond trade and as a centre of governance, Golconda Fort Hyderabad today is a UNESCO World Heritage site, preserving India’s medieval history and attracting visitors globally.

All About Golconda Fort History

Originally constructed in 1143 on top of a hilltop, the Golconda Fort built by Kakatiya ruler Prataparudra was earlier known as Mankal. During the Rajah of Warangal’s rule, it was initially a mud fort. Afterwards, the Bahmani Sultans and the governing Qutub Shahi dynasty fortified it between the 14th and the 17th centuries. The main capital of the Qutub Shahi kings was Golconda. The inner fort is home to the remnants of a hilltop pavilion with an amazing view of surrounding structures, as well as palace and mosque ruins. The pavilion is approximately 130 meters high.

Golconda Fort’s history dates back to the Kakatiya dynasty in the early 13th century. The Qutub Shahi kings dominated the area in the 16th and 17th centuries after that.

Golconda Fort Architecture & Design 

The Golconda Fort Hyderabad Telangana India has an ancient architecture reflecting the past of Hyderabad. 

• Archaeological Significance: Golconda Fort is a designated archaeological treasure under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act by the Archaeological Survey of India. It comprises four distinct forts enclosed by a 10 km long outer wall with 87 semicircular bastions, eight gateways, and four drawbridges.
• Fateh Darwaza: Known as the Victory Gate, it features giant iron spikes and exhibits an acoustic marvel where a hand clap beneath the dome reverberates audibly at the Bala Hisar pavilion nearly a kilometer away, historically serving as an alert system against attacks.
• Bala Hissar Gate: This main entrance showcases pointed arches with intricate scroll work, yalis, and peacock motifs, reflecting Hindu architectural influences from the fort’s origins.
• Religious Sites: Within Golconda Fort are significant religious structures including the Jagadamba temple dating back 900 to 1,000 years, visited by thousands during the Bonalu festival, and the Mahankali temple nearby.
• Qutub Shahi Tombs: Located 1 km north of Golconda’s outer wall, these tombs exhibit Islamic architecture surrounded by gardens and intricate stone carvings, serving as the burial place for the Qutub Shahi kings.
• Additional Structures: The fort also has various buildings such as the Kala Mandir pavilions, Habshi Kamans (Abyssian arches), Taramati mosque and Ramadas Bandikhana. 

Where Is Golconda Fort Located?

Golconda Fort is located in Hyderabad, Telangana, India. 

Golconda Fort Address: Khair Complex, Ibrahim Bagh, Hyderabad, Telangana 500008

How to Reach Golconda Fort In Hyderabad?  

• Metro: Golconda Fort is conveniently accessed via Jubilee Hills Check Post Metro Station, located approximately 4 km away.
• Bus: The closest bus stand, Flour Mill, is just an 8-minute walk from the fort.
• Air: For air travel,  take a flight to Hyderabad and reach Vijayawada International Airport (VGA), the nearest major international airport. From there, travelers can arrange a cab to reach Golconda Fort.
• Train: Secunderabad Junction Railway Station (SC) is the nearest major railway station serving as a convenient gateway to reach Golconda Fort.

Golconda Fort Map

Best Time To Visit  Golconda Fort

The best time to visit Golconda Fort is during the months of October to March since the weather is pleasant during these months. Visiting Hyderabad during summers or monsoons can be chaotic and hence, trip is not advisable.

Golconda Fort Entry Timings & Entry Fee   

Below is are the details for Golconda Fort Entry Fee & Timings. 

• Entry Timings: Open from 8:00 am to 5:30 pm daily.
• Weekday Entry: Open every day of the week.
  
• Entry Fees:

1. Indian Citizens: INR 25 per person (changes applicable)
2. SAARC and BIMSTEC Countries’ Visitors: INR 25 per person (changes applicable)
3. Foreigners: INR 300 per person
4. Children under 15 years can enter for free.

What Is Golconda Fort Famous For?

Following are the most famous features of Golconda Fort – 

• Clapping Portico: One of Golconda Fort’s unique features is its “Clapping Portico,” also known as the “Echoing Portico.” This architectural wonder shows exceptional acoustics, where a clap at the Fateh Darwaza entrance can be heard nearly a kilometer away at the Bala Hissar Pavilion. This feature was traditionally used as a warning system against potential attacks.
• Diamond Hub: Golconda Fort is famous as a major hub of diamond mining, producing famous gems like the Koh-i-noor and Hope Diamond. This historic site was noted by travelers such as Marco Polo for its significant role in the global diamond trade.
• Baradari (Darbar Hall) Architecture: Despite ruin by Mughal rulers, Golconda Fort still has 87 semicircular bastions with mounted cannons, eight gateways, majestic halls, and other structures like mosques, temples, magazines, and stables.
• Historical Garden: Once spread across kilometers with fragrant flowers, Golconda Fort’s gardens lost their charm after invasions, leaving behind dry landscapes.

Facts About The Golconda Fort India

Here are some quick facts about the fort to fill you with curioisty even more! 

1. The Golconda Fort Hyderabad India featured an advanced network of sound and light communication systems, such as the clapping portico, enabling rapid message transmission over long distances.
2. Clapping at the fort’s base results in echoes audible all the way to the hilltop, a method used in ancient times as a warning against dangers. 
3. The Golconda Fort haunted story is the most famous fact. Legend holds that Taramati, the queen of Golconda, still haunts the fort with her soul in search of liberation (moksha).
4. Despite being buried alongside her king, reports claim sightings of Taramati’s ghost walking and dancing within the palace grounds at night.

Cultural Events & Festivals At Golconda Fort Hyderabad 

The most famous cultural event hosted at the Golconda Fort Hyderabad India is Laser & Multimedia Show, a very important part of Telangana Tourism. 

Details of the same are as follows- 

Golconda Fort Hyderabad Telangana Laser & Multimedia Show – 

1. November to February

1st Show – Daily 6:30 PM (English Show)

2nd Show – Daily 7:15 PM (Hindi Show)

3rd Show – Daily 8:00 PM (Telugu Show)

2. March to October

1st Show – Daily 7:00 PM (English Show)

2nd Show – Daily 7:45 PM (Hindi Show)

3rd Show – Daily 8:30 PM (Telugu Show)

The Golconda Fort ticket price for the show is Rs.140 per adult and Rs. 110 per child. 

Nearby Attractions Of The Golconda Fort 

1. Qutb Shahi Tombs: A collection of impressive tombs showcasing Indo-Islamic architecture, Qutb Shahi Tombs are located 2 kilometers southeast of Golconda Fort in Hyderabad.
2. Taramati Baradari: A historic pavilion known for its uniqueness as a cultural venue, Taramati Baradari is situated 4 kilometers southwest of Golconda Fort in Hyderabad.
3. Gandipet Lake (Osman Sagar): A beautiful reservoir with lovely views and recreational activities, Gandipet Lake is about 10 kilometers southwest of Golconda Fort in Hyderabad.
4. Shilparamam: An arts and crafts village offering traditional crafts and cultural activities, Shilparamam is located 10 kilometers southwest of Golconda Fort in Hyderabad.
5. Chowmahalla Palace: A grand palace complex showcasing the Nizam’s regal splendor,Chowmahalla Palace is situated 11 kilometers southeast of Golconda Fort in Hyderabad.
6. Charminar: An iconic monument and symbol of Hyderabad, Charminar is a must visit. The Charminar to Golconda fort distance is approximately 12 kilometers northeast of Golconda Fort.
7. Nehru Zoological Park: A wildlife park that is home to diverse species, Nehru Zoological Park is located 15 kilometers southeast of Golconda Fort in Hyderabad.

Visitor Guidelines & Pro Tips

You are advised to follow the visitor guidelines given below during your Hyderabad Golconda Fort exploration to ensure you have a safe and comfortable trip to India. 

1. Wear comfortable loose clothes and shoes to walk easily through the fort. 
2. Always prefer going to the fort with a trained guide. 
3. Wear a sunscreen when stepping out in Hyderabad in general. 
4. Carry a water bottle to prevent dehydration. 
5. Eat light breakfast and be mentally prepared to climb the Hyderabad Golconda Fort as it is siuated on a hilltop. 

Other Activities To Do In Hyderabad 

Hyderabad is not short of tourist attractions! There are many places to visit in Hyderabad! Below are some of the best tourism spots in Hyderabad after knowing all about Golconda Fort.

• Birla Mandir
• Falaknuma Palace
• Jubilee Hills
• Ramoji Film City
• Spanish Mosque
• Peddamma Temple
• Chilkur Balaji Temple
• Begum Bazaar
• Nampally Exhibition
• Shilparamam
• Sultan Bazar

Other Popular Forts In India 

 Want to discover the mystery behind forts in India? Plan your vacation now and start your exploration today! Below are some of the best forts with great historical importance – 

1. Panhala Fort
2. Sinhagad Fort
3. Red Fort
4. Fort St George
5. Harihar Fort
6. Raigad Fort
7. Aguada Fort
8. Bangalore Palace
9. Purana Qila
10. Falaknuma Palace
11. Shaniwar Wada

Other Popular Attractions In India 

There’s a lot to explore in India. Below are some of the most famous tourism in India options for you-

Caves in India

Temples in India

Beaches in India

Places to Visit in India

Parks in India

Forts in India

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When was Golconda Fort built?

A: Golconda Fort was built during the Kakatiya dynasty in the 13th century.

Q: How many steps in Golconda Fort?

A: The exact number of stairs inside the fort varies and is not officially recorded.

Q: Who made Golconda Fort?

A: The Golconda Fort was built by the Kakatiya dynasty and later expanded by the Qutub Shahi Kings who ruled Hydrerabad.

Q: Is there any entry fee for kids in the fort?

A: There is no entry fee for kids under the age of 15 in Golconda Fort.

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