Golconda Fort (from Hyderabad 12 kms.) in Andhra Pradesh

The glorious remains of this once impregnable fort sprawl over a hill side about 1000 feet above the surrounding countryside. The forts name is derived from the Telugu word “Golla Konda” meaning “Shepherd’s Hill”. Originally, it was a mud fort built by the Kakatiya kings of Warangal in 1143. The Qutub Shah dynasty held it from 1518 to 1687 and the first three Qutub Shahi kings rebuilt Golconda over a span of 62 years. The prosperous city was famous for its diamonds and hand painted textiles. Attracted by the wealth and prosperity of Golconda, the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb conquered Golconda after an eight month siege. The grandeur of this mammoth fort can be experienced from the top of the citadel. Within the fort are – an armoury, palaces, the store, courtyards, fountains, mosque, public and private meeting halls and temple. The fort is noted for its magnificent acoustics, the structural grandeur of its palaces, factories and ingenious water supply system. A sound and light show is held here in the evenings.

Reaching there:
By Air
The nearest airport from Golconda fort is Hyderabad International Airport (12 Kms.). It is well connected to many important cities abroad.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Secunderabad, one of the twin cities with Hyderabad, is a major station with the head quarters of Southern Railway.
By Road
Andhra Pradesh state owned buses connect Hyderabad city with all cities in the state and the neighboring states. Golconda fort is well connected with Hyderabad. Hyderabad is a hub of deluxe, super deluxe, A/C and Volvo tourist buses. Hyderabad is connected by these superb buses to many cities, including Bangalore, Chennai, Vishakapatnam and Vijayawada.