Golconda
Fort is one of the most splendid fortress complex in India which lies on the
western outskirts at a distance of 11 km from Hyderabad, the capital of the
state of Andhra Pradesh. The history of Golconda Fort dates back to the
early 13th century, when this south eastern part of the country was ruled by
the Kakatiyas. The massive part of the ruins of this fort, date from the
time of the Qutub Shahi kings, who had ruled this province in the 16th and
17th century.Originally a mud fort, Golconda Fort was later reconstructed in stone. Since then it has had a variety of additions by the various rulers of the region. The fort, on an isolated granite hill, rises about 400 ft above the surrounding plain. The contours of the fort blend with those of the hill. Nowadays, the ruins have a desolate majesty in the midst of an arid plain.
The fortress is built on a granite hill 120 m high, surrounded by massive crenellated ramparts. The granite crenellated wall is about 7 km in circumference with a deep trench. The walls' thickness ranges from 17 to 34 ft and is broken by 87 semi circular bastions which are 50 to 60 ft high.
The fort has 8 gates or Darwazas as they are called locally, the main gate
being Fateh Darwaza (Gate of Victory). The door is 13 ft wide and 25 ft high
and studded with steel spikes to protect it from attacking elephants. The
fort also includes a palace, a mosque, a parade ground, and an armoury
besides several other buildings.Reaching Golconda Fort
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.
City Transport : Golconda Fort is around 11-km from Hyderabad. Auto rickshaws and Taxis are available apart from luxury/semi-luxury buses, for local transportation.
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