A Day at Golconda Fort: What to See and Do

A Day at Golconda Fort: What to See and Do

Golconda Fort in the middle of Hyderabad is one of the most famous and ancient buildings in India. This vast and imposing fort built on a hill has been in existence for more than 400 years and is still a masterpiece of architectural design and a monument to the monarchy of the region. It was constructed in the 13th century by the Kakatiya dynasty, but the Qutb Shahi dynasty made it into a grand fortress. The structure of the fort has large walls, huge gates and other architectural designs, thus today it receives thousands of tourists from different parts of the world who are interested in history.

It is not only a large and beautifully built fort, occupying a commanding position, but also one which has a rather interesting history. Golconda Fort was the center of activities that involved power struggles, wars, treachery and great wealth, which has been associated with the history of the fort for many years now. The water supply system and the ways the king’s voice was amplified within the fort walls are the proofs of the brilliant engineering of the fort’s builders. Visiting the Golconda Fort makes a traveler to India to have a feel of how the ancient civilization was like.

Visiting Golconda Fort is like a time machine, where tourists can walk through its different parts – palaces, mosques, and temples. The fort has a vantage view of the city of Hyderabad and at night the light and sound show is something one shouldn’t miss. If you are a history lover or an architect, if you like photography or just want to watch the beautiful scenery, then Golconda Fort is the place you should not miss in this city.

Now, let us discuss how Golconda Fort is a must-visit for tourists and people living in the area.

 

1. Have a look at the Grand Entrance and Gates

 

1. Have a look at the Grand Entrance and Gates

It is through the gate that you would enter when touring Golconda Fort. The large doors are different from one another but are evidence of the fort’s excellent design for protection. The main entrance also known as the Fateh Darwaza (Victory Gate) is especially well known for its sound echoes. Even a clap near the gate can be heard at the top of the fort, which was earlier used as a signal to wake the residents. With iron and stone gates, it takes you back in time and prepare you for the rest of the tour.

2. Go to the Sound and Light Show

 

2. Go to the Sound and Light Show

The Golconda Fort gets especially beautiful during the evening when the Sound and Light Show takes place. The show is an account of the growth of the structure and the fights that occurred and the great kings that once lived here. Bright lights and an impressive music help to tell the story of the fort and everyone who visits it will certainly remember this.

3. Visit the Fort’s Palaces and Mosques

 

3. Visit the Fort’s Palaces and Mosques - Golconda Fort

Golconda Fort has many beautiful palaces, mosques and tombs which are the testimony to the royal past of the place. This fort also contains the Rani Mahal (Queen’s Palace) and the Bala Hissar (The King’s Residence). These structures are good example of Mughal and Qutb Shahi architecture of the fort. Visiting these elaborated structures makes you understand the lifestyle and the kind of culture the royal families had.

4. Take a Tour to Enjoy the Most Beautiful Scenic Views at the Top

 

4. Take a Tour to Enjoy the Most Beautiful Scenic Views at the Top

The best prospect for a visitor at Golconda Fort is the view from the top of the hill. Situated on a hill the fort provides a vantage view of Hyderabad’s vast urban landscape and the countryside. The climb to the top may be a little tiring but the views from the top are worth the climb. It is an ideal place to take photos and to see the whole beauty of the whole province.

5. Discover the Fort’s Water System and the Construction

 

5. Discover the Fort’s Water System and the Construction - Golconda Fort

The Golconda Fort is not just an architectural wonder but also a military fort. A unique and interesting to watch are the step wells and reservoirs of the fort which provided the water supply. The high walls and watch towers are used to illustrate the importance of the fort and how it was designed to be defended. Do not leave without discovering all the corners and other structures with interesting architectural solutions of the fort.

Conclusion:

 

A visit to the Golconda Fort is a historical tour, which means that once inside, any visitor has a chance to dive into the past and discover the greatness of this ancient fort. Starting from the massive doors of the fort to the beautifully carved palaces, every part of the fort has some or the other tale to tell about the historical and architectural magnificence of the place. The old buildings’ engineering design gives history lovers an opportunity to learn about engineering achievements of the past.

The views of the city from the top of the Golconda Fort add to the attractiveness of the site where tourists can get an excellent view of Hyderabad and its environs. Regardless of whether you are admiring the scenic views or going through the nook and corner of the fort, every moment spent here is like living history. The gates also have acoustical features as well as the water system to remind the visitor of the strategic significance of the fort during its prime.

Last but not the least; the light and sound show in the evening is quite an interesting way to explore the life of the fort and add colour to your tour. The fact that the Golconda Fort is steeped in history and architecture and surrounded by nature makes it one of the most popular places to visit in Hyderabad. If you are a resident or a tourist, one day in this place is a rather interesting thing that should be seen.

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