GOLCONDA FORT Location : Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh Started By : Kakatiya of the 12th century CE, (the original construction of the fort) Built In : 12th century CE Expanded By : Qutb Shahi kings

Golconda Fort – Time Only Increased Its Grandeur

This majestic fort of Andhra Pradesh is a sight not to be missed. Originally a mud fort, Golconda Fort was later rebuilt in stone and provides a majestic backdrop to Bhagyanagar (now Hyderabad). After its reconstruction in stone, it had had a variety of additions by the various rulers of the region.

The fort is set on an isolated granite hill and rises to a height of 400 ft from the surrounding plains. The contours of the fort blend with those of the hill and offers an awesome sight in the midst of an arid plain.

The Kakatiyas, the 12th century Andhra rulers are credited for its original construction, but the fort was actually expanded by the Qutb Shahi kings. The granite stones were used by the Qutb Shahi rulers to reconstruct the Fort and fortify the colossal structure with granite walls and barricades stretching to nearly 7 kms in periphery.

Showcasing the ruins of the glorious past, the Golconda fort is an astounding marvel of acoustics. If one stands at any point at the entrance of the fort and claps, it echoes and the sound of the clap can be heard clearly at the Bala Hissar, the highest point on the hill, which is almost a kilometer away.

It is said that the Diamonds - the Hope, the Kohinoor, the Orloff, etc. originated from this place. While the Nagina Bagh, the guard barracks and the Taramati mosque displays the brilliance of the fort even in its wrecked form. The Fateh Darwaza, the Madanna Temple, the Ramdas jail, the Rani Mahal and the Jama Masjid are the other major attractions at the fort. The Baradari atop the hill offers a clear view of the city.

Once famous for its trade in diamonds and precious stones, Golconda has a sound-and-light show organised by the AP Tourism Development Corporation every evening, which is one of the most striking feature of the fort now.