Location : Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh
Year of Construction : 1525
Attractions : Taramathi Gana Mandir, Premathi Nritya Mandir, Light and Sound Show
Best time to Visit : October to March


About Golconda Fort
On the western outskirts of Hyderabad, at a distance of just 11 km from the city centre, lies the majestic Golconda Fort perched atop a granite hill. Built during the 16th century by Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah, the 400 years old monument is known for its architectural grandeur and an indigenous water supply system. The munificent fort is famed for its military architecture, built to withstand enemy attacks of the severest nature. The structure is not one but actually four forts linked together. The lowest of these structures is the outer enclosure which can be entered through the fateh darwaza and is surrounded by several bazaars, temples, mosques, residential quarters and stables etc.

The imposing structure consists of a number of gigantic gateways. The fateh darwaza or victory gate is known for its acoustics properties where even a slight sound can be heard as far as the Balahisar Baraderi. This acted as a danger sign for the residents in case of an enemy attack during the past times. The balahisar darwaza is another impressive gateway guarded by stone beasts and lions. An uphill climb of 380 steps from here leads to the top of the fort that affords a breathtaking view of the surroundings.

Architecture of the Fort
The place was known in the past for its diamond mines and even the famous Kohinoor diamond is said to have come from here. The intricate details in the style of architecture and the beauty of the surrounding gardens aptly showcases the grandeur once witnessed by the place. The fort is built on top of a 120 mts high granite hill and surrounded by huge walls built of giant masonry blocks each weighing several tonnes. The ventilation system is carefully thought of such that it lets fresh cool breeze flow through providing much needed respite from the oppressive summer heat. The gates are dotted with iron spikes to prevent it from being brought down by Elephants. The huge wall surrounding the entire town is over 11 Km long.

Do Not Miss Out On
Golconda Fort is a treasure house of wonders housing several palaces, monuments, temples and other distinct features of tourist interest within its fortified walls. A remarkable feature is the sound system that acted as a warning signal for the residents at the times of enemy attacks. The sound produced by a clap of hands at the entrance can be clearly heard at the other end, almost a kilometer away. Outside the structure are two seperate pavillions known as the Taramathi Gana Mandir and Premathi Nrtiya Mandir. The structures inside the fort are surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens adorned with intricately carved stone work. The sound and light show conducted by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism board is another important attraction not to be missed.

Sound & Light Show
The Andhra Pradesh Tourism department conducted sound and light show brings alive the legend of Golconda through a brilliant interplay of audio and visual effects. The 55 minutes long show is presented in three languages namely Hindi (Tuesday, Friday & Saturday), English (Wednesday & Sunday) and Telugu (Thursday), Monday being a holiday.

Getting There
Hyderabad is well connected to all parts of the country by air, rail and land routes. The fort is situated just 11 km from the city centre and can be accessed by hiring a taxi or an auto rickshaw conveniently available from several places within the city.