Rachakonda Fort, Nalgonda

Rachakonda Fort used to be the capital of the Velma Kings who ruled over the region during the 14th and 15th centuries. The Velma Kings were perhaps the most unpopular rulers of the south, because they formed alliances with the Muslim rulers of Bahmanis and were perpetually at war with the Reddy Kings who belonged to the region of Kondaveedu.

The Velmas also constantly fought with the Kapayya Naikas who were from Warangal. The Velma Kings had built the fort to protect themselves from invasion, but they were played foul by the Muslim rulers who turned the royal family of Velmas into their vassals.

The Velmas were also cursed by a Brahmin that they would never again rule. Some people believe that it is the result of the curse that the Rachakonda Fort is in absolute ruins today. However, the fort does find visitors in the form of tourists and curious locals who prefer visiting the fort before sunset.