Golconda Fort is one of the most important landmarks in Hyderabad and is a prominent example of brilliant engineering and magical architecture. The Golconda Fort timings are from 9 AM to 5:30 PM.
At 11km from the city, Golconda is Hyderabad’s most famous tourist destination. The name “Golconda” comes from two Telugu words which together mean ‘Shepherd’s Hill’.
Golconda Fort
It is one of the oldest historical forts in Hyderabad, capturing grandeur, history and stories; visiting it early in the day allows you to experience the true splendour without obstacles.
Though it was built more than 500 years ago, Golconda Fort still stands majestically. It employs advanced techniques and a sturdy structure that will impress you with its incredible history and outstanding view of the nearby city.
History
The Golconda Fort was from the 12th century by the Kakatiya Kings and then reconstructed by the Qutub Shahi Kings. The story behind Golconda (Shepherd’s) Fort says that a shepherd boy once found an idol of a god while he was wandering the area.
This news reached the Kakatiya ruler, who decided to build a fort on this hill. That fort became known as Golconda (Shepherds Hill) Fort.
The Golconda fort was a diamond market. It had famous diamonds like the Kohinoor and Hope Diamonds and many other notable names such as The Regent Diamond and Darya-e Nur.
Still, there are great landmarks at Golconda Castle, like mosques and pavilions. Unfortunately, they’re all in ruins now.
However, after some 200 years, the fort came under Bahamani rulers. A short while later, the fort came under the control of Qutub Shahi Kings, who extended it further.
The Bahmani rulers and their descendants fortified the fort and expanded it during their reigns. Later in 1687, this whole fort was under the rule of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.
Golconda Fort Light Show
What’s unique about this fort is its evening light and sound show. It was one of its major attractions for visitors. It plays around Rani Mahal, drawing visitors daily in English, Telugu, and Hindi.
This show is from 6 PM to 9:15 PM and has different times based on the month. On Mondays, the fort remains closed.
Architecture
Golconda Fort has inner ramparts of about 11 kilometres and 18 feet. Its gates with pointy iron spikes prevented Elephants from damaging the Fort and enemy attacks.
This fort presents a mesmerizing architecture that will take your breath away at every turn. It is on top of a 12-meter-tall granite rock and surrounded by ramparts.
One of the most amazing and special aspects of the architecture in the fort is its sound system.
The clapping sound can be heard from over a kilometre away and was probably to communicate information about attackers.
More Facts
One of the famous destinations inside the Fort is Ramdas’ prison. The Hindu revenue collector Ramdas was imprisoned in Abdul Hasan Shah’s court.
He spent his time carving portraits of Hindu deities on the walls of his cell, which are now spread with holy vermillion.
A few lamps also hang at the spot, perpetually lit to offer blessings to visitors and pilgrims (Diya).
The fort’s main entrance is called the “Fateh Darwaza,” which means “Victory Gate” in English. Its name was derived from the victory procession of Aurangzeb’s army, who passed through this door to enter the fort. Not only does it commemorate the Emperor’s victory, but its amazing acoustics also attract visitors.
As you walk through the entrance of Golconda Fort, you will experience not only a sense of architectural excellence but also be able to see and hear the magnificent work that went into it.
This gate was beautifully built, allowing for someone’s claps at one point to be echoed by claps at the topmost pavilion. The other attractive feature of this fort is an impressive 800-year-old tree.
It is one of the most astonishing structures, consisting of many ornamental cannons and drawbridges. Huge halls, mosques with eight gateways, and stables add to its magnificence. There is a belief that it has a passage to escape under siege.
Golconda Fort Timings
Below are the Golconda fort timings:
| Day | Golconda Fort Timings |
|---|---|
| Monday | 9 AM – 5:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 9 AM – 5:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 9 AM – 5:30 PM |
| Thursday | 9 AM – 5:30 PM |
| Friday | 9 AM – 5:30 PM |
| Saturday | 9 AM – 5:30 PM |
| Sunday | 9 AM – 5:30 PM |
Entry Ticket Price
- 25 ruppes per person for Indians
- 300 rupees per person for Foreign
- 25 rupees extra for the camera
How to reach
Golconda fort is a short drive from the city centre. It’s about 11 km (7 miles) from Hyderabad’s central district. The two closest metro stations are Peddamma Temple Metro Station and Jubilee Hills Check Post Metro Station on the Blue Line.
You can also travel by taking an auto it will take 20 mins to reach. If you travel by bus, you must choose Bus 119 and Bus 66G and 65G from the Nampally stop.
FAQS
Who built Golconda fort Hyderabad?
The great king Qutub Shahi dynasty built the fort.
Where is Golconda fort?
It is 11km away from the central district of Hyderabad.
Who made fort?
Kakatiya kings made Golconda fort.
How many steps are in Golconda fort Hyderabad?
Total 720 steps you need to take.