Golconda Fort is one of the most magnificent fortress complexes in India. It is located on the outskirts of the city of 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 bulk of the ruins of this fort, date from the time of the Qutab Shahi kings, who had ruled this area in the 16th and 17th century. Golconda city remained the capital of the Qutab Shahis from 1512 to 1590, from where they later shifted it to Hyderabad.

Golconda Fort is itself built on a granite hill 120 metres high, and is surrounded by walls of solid stone. The fortress had held out for eight long months, when in 1687, the fort was besieged by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. It finally fell to the Mughals, after it was treacherously betrayed. The outer wall surrounding the entire township of Golconda, is about 11 kilometres long, and is strongly fortified. In its heyday, the 10 kilometre long road from Golconda to outer Hyderabad, was a fabulous market selling jewellery, diamonds, pearls and other gems, which were famous all over the world.

One of the most remarkable features of Golconda, is its system of acoustics. The sounds of hands clapped in the grand portico can be heard in the Durbar Hall, at the very top of the hill. The tombs of the Qutab Shahi kings, lie about one kilometre north of the outer wall of Golconda. These graceful structures are surrounded by landscaped gardens, with beautifully carved stonework.

Best time to visit :
The best time to visit Golconda Fort is between September and March.

How to get there :
Hyderabad can be reached by air, from all the major cities of the country. Indian Airlines and many other private airlines operate flights to Hyderabad. It is also easily accesible by train, from any part of the country. There is a regular bus service to Hyderabad from many cities in southern, central and south-eastern parts of the country.