Golconda or Golla konda was the capital of Qutb Shahi dynasty (c.1518 -1687). Situated 13 km away from Hyderabad city, this fort has a magnificent past. This region known for the mines, has produced world famous gems: the Kohinoor diamond and the Nassak diamond etc.
Built by Kakatiya dynasty on a granite hill following the model of Kodapalli Fort, this fort was conquered by Qutb Shahi dynasty and finally fell into the Mughul Empire of Aurangzeb. Golconda Fort was entirely in ruins after the siege by Aurangzeb.
Golconda city at that time had the only known diamond mines in the world. The Golconda fort is supposed to have had a vault where the famous diamonds were stored. In fact, the name 'Golconda' was given by British to refer it as rich mine.
The fort is known for the magical acoustic system, which was designed to provide more security. It is also believed that a secret tunnel was constructed from the fort to Charminar.
Interestingly, the Fort itself has so many places within its walls that keeps tourists to move from one place to another.
Golconda Fort
An overview of the majestic fort.
Photo Courtesy: Bernard Gagnon
Ruins of the Golconda Fort
A picture of the ruined fort.
Photo Courtesy: Sanyam Bahga
Koh-i-noor
The world famous diamond.
Photo Courtesy: Chris 73
Hyderabad City from the Fort
A view of Hyderabad from Golconda Fort.
Photo Courtesy: Sanyam Bahga
The Mosque of Ibrahim
Another building inside the fort.
Photo Courtesy: Anupamg
The Bala Hisar Baradari Citadel
The Baradari is the top most view point of the fort.
Photo Courtesy: Bernard Gagnon
View from the citadel
A view from the Baradari point.
Photo Courtesy: Bernard Gagnon
Architecture of the Fort
The beautiful ceiling inside Golconda.
Photo Courtesy: Sajjusajuu
Stone Arch in the Golconda Fort
A ruined stone arch inside the fort.
Photo Courtesy: Sanyam Bahga
Fort from Inside
A picture of interiors of the Golconda Fort.
Photo Courtesy: Sajjusajuu