About Golconda Fort
Golconda fort, situated in Hyderabad, the capital city of Andhra Pradesh, is a majestic monument. It lies in the western outskirts of the city. It represents 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 memorabilia of Nawabi culture and grandeur.

One of the famous forts in India, it's name originates from the Telugu words "Golla Konda" meaning "Shepherd's Hill". This fort was originally a mud fort in the Kakatiyas period, which was then passed to the Bahmani dynasty and later to the Qutb Shahis, who held it from 1518 to 1687 A.D. The first three Qutb Shahi kings rebuilt Golconda, over a span of 62 years.

The fort is renowned for its acoustics, palaces, factories, ingenious water supply system and the famous Fateh Rahben gun, one of the cannons used in the last siege of Golconda by Aurangzeb, to whom the fort ultimately fell.

The Architecture
The fantastic architecture of the Golconda fort is spell bounding. It has a acoustic system and ingenious water supply system. Golconda is built on a granite hill 120m high, and is surrounded by crenelated ramparts constructed of large masonry blocks weighing several tonnes. The design of the ventilation reveals the brilliant planning of the architects; they are designed beautifully to let the flowing fresh cool breeze come inside the fort, 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 bastioned.

Other Attractions near the Fort
Char Minar
A beautiful monument marking the glory of the rulers of Hyderabad. It has four intricately carved minars. Apart from these this majestic monument has exquisite arches and domes that just keep you dumb struck. It is one of the major attractions in Hyderabad.

Mecca Masjid
Mecca Masjid is a famous mosque of South India and was built in the year 1614, the construction of this masjid was started by the 6th Sultan Abdullah Qutb Shah and completed by Aurangzeb. The clay from Mecca mixed with red color was used for stucco decorations at the entrance of the Masjid.

Hussain Sagar Lake
This Lake is a link between the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. A major attraction at the Hussain Sagar is the 16-meter high, 350 tonne monolithic Buddha statue on the Rock of Gibraltar. Hussain Sagar also offers myriad opportunities for water sports lovers. Apart from these, there are many more attractions near the Golconda fort.

The Sound and Light Show
This show narrates the glorious past of Golconda Fort which is matchless. The unique Sound & Light Show takes you right back in time, when Golconda was full of life, glory and grandeur. The show is presented in English, Hindi and Telugu.

Getting There
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.

Accommodation
Hyderabad has plenty of accommodation options available, ranging from luxury to economy class.