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.
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.
The Sound and Light Show
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.
How to Get 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.
City Transport:
Golconda Fort is around 11-km from Hyderabad. Auto rickshaws
and Taxis are available apart from luxury/semi-luxury buses,
for local transportation.
Where to Stay
There are numerous hotels available in Hyderabad.
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