Golconda fort is a majestic monument, which lies on the western outskirts of
Hyderabad city. It speaks of a great cultural heritage of 400 years and is
regarded as a place worth visiting. Built by Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah in
1525, it stands as the epitome of Nawabi culture and grandeur.
History Of Golconda
Before the city of Hyderabad was founded the Deccan was ruled from Golconda
fort. Founded originally by the Kakatiya's in the 13th century the existing
structure was expanded by the Qutub Shahi kings into a massive fort with
granite walls and ramparts extending some 5-km in circumference. The first
three Qutub Shahi kings rebuilt Golconda, over a span of 62 years.
Shepherd's Hill" or "Golla Konda", as it was popularly known
in Telugu, has an interesting story behind it. One fine day, on the rocky
hill called 'Mangalavaram', a shepherd boy came across an idol. This was
conveyed to the Kakatiya king, who was ruling at that time. The king got a
mud fort constructed around the holy spot. Over a period of time this lowly
construction was expanded by the Qutub Shahi kings into a massive fort of
granite, which has been a silent witness to many historic events.
Attractions Within The Fort
One of the most remarkable features of Golconda is its system of acoustics-
a hand clap at a certain point below the dome at the entrance reverberates
and can be heard clearly at the 'Bala Hissar', the highest point almost a
kilometre away, palaces, factories, water supply system and the famous
'Rahban' cannon, that was used during the last seize of Golconda by
Aurangazeb, to whom the fort ultimately fell.
There is also supposed to be secret underground tunnel leading from the
'Durbar Hall' to one of the palaces at the foot of the hill. The tombs of
the Qutub Shahi kings, built with Islamic architecture lie about 1-km north
of the outer wall of Golconda. These graceful structures are surrounded by
landscaped gardens, and a number of them have beautifully carved stonework.
Not be missed is the Sound and Light show conducted by Andhra Pradesh
Tourism.
Outside the Golconda Fort are two separate pavilions built on a rocky
eminence - the 'Taramathi Gana Mandir' and the 'Premathi Nritya Mandir' from
where the legendary sisters 'Taramathi' and 'Premamathi' resided. They gave
their performance on a circular dais atop a two-storied structure, the 'Kala
Mandir', which was visible from the king's durbar (king's court) on top of
the Golconda Fort.
A Well Planned Architecture
The magnificent architecture of the Golconda fort is manifest in its
acoustic system, the structural grandeur of the palaces and ingenious water
supply system. The fort was famous for its diamond trade and the 'Kohinoor'
diamond is said to have come from here. One is perplexed to see the
meticulous details of the architecture and the fading gardens, which were
once upon a time replete with sprawling lawns and playing fountains.
Golconda is built on a granite hill 120m high, and is surrounded by
crenulated ramparts constructed of large masonry blocks weighing several
tonnes. The design of the ventilation reveals the brilliant planning of the
architects; they are designed to let in a flow of fresh cool breeze, which
is a respite from the heat of summer.
The massive gates are studded with large pointed iron spikes to prevent
elephants from battering them down. The outer wall surrounding the entire
township of Golconda, is about 11-km long, and is strongly fortified. In its
heyday, the 10-km 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.
The Sound & Light Show in Golconda Fort
A new attraction at the fort is a sound and light show that brings the
legend of Golconda to life. With a spectacular interplay of audio and visual
effects, the story of Golconda unfolds over centuries of splendour. The show
livens up the glorious past and it is an experience worth watching. The show
is presented in English, Hindi and Telugu.
Show Timings
Winter (November - February) 6:30pm, Summer (March - October) 7:00pm
- Duration : 55 minutes
- In English : Wednesday, Sunday
- In Hindi : Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday
- In Telugu : Thursday
- Closed on : Mondays
- Advance Booking : Available at Yatra Nivas,
Secunderabad. Coach leaves Yatranivas at 5:00pm and returns from
Golconda Fort at 8:15pm
