Golkonda Fort in Hyderabad – History, Location, Timings, Sound & Light Show

Have you ever wondered about the secrets hidden within the ancient walls of Golconda Fort? Golconda Fort is a magnificent and historic fort in the state of Hyderabad. This fort is a must-visit destination for history lovers. It is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. This place is situated approximately 9 km from Hussain Sagar Lake. In the evenings, the fort comes alive with an amazing light and sound show that describes its royal past. The first show in English begins at 6:30 p.m. (November to February) or 7:00 p.m. (March to October), followed by a second show in Telugu or Hindi at 7:45 p.m. (November to February) or 8:15 p.m. (March to October). Ticket prices for the light and sound show range from Rs. 60 to Rs. 140, while entry to the fort itself costs Rs. 5 for Indian visitors and Rs. 100 for foreign tourists.

History of Golconda Fort:

The history of Golconda Fort is rich in legends and royal interest. It is said that a shepherd discovered an idol in the area, prompting the Kakatiyan king to construct a mud fort around it, hence the name “Golla Konda” or “Shepherd’s Hill” in Telugu. Established in 1143, the fort gained prominence under the Qutub Shahi Dynasty in the 16th century. Quli Qutub Shah declared independence from the Bahmani Sultanate in 1518, transforming the mud fort into a formidable structure with a 10 km outer wall.

In 1687, after a nine-month attack, Mughal emperor Aurangzeb finally breached the fort, marking the end of its power. The fort’s strategic location and its proximity to diamond mines, including the famed Kollur Mine, contributed to its prosperity and significance as a diamond trade center.

Why It Is Famous:

Golconda Fort is famous for its historical significance, architectural beauty, and the legendary Koh-I-Noor diamond, which was once stored within its walls. The fort’s musical wonders such as the hand clap at the entrance that can be heard at the top of the fort, add to its charm. Its rich history, architectural glory, and fascinating stories make Golconda Fort a must-visit tourist place.

Architecture of The Fort:

Golconda Fort is located Perched on a 400-foot hill. It covers a circumference of 7 km highlighting a superb combination of Hindu-Islamic architecture. The fort’s design includes eight gates and 87 bastions, each reaching heights of 50-60 feet. The walls consist of three concentric walls with the innermost wall enclosing the fort.

Key architectural features include the royal apartments, parade grounds, mosques, and the main gate, Fateh Darwaza decorated with steel spikes to resist elephants. Another notable structure is the Balahisar Darwaza, built in the Nawabi style. Today, tourists can visit the eastern gate and explore the fort’s well-ventilated interiors that once provided comfort to the royals during the summer months.

Golconda Fort Sound and Light Show:

Golconda Fort comes alive in the evenings with a beautiful light and sound show that narrates the fort’s royal past. Held in the Rani Mahal section, the show offers an attractive experience of the beauty, rise, and fall of Golconda Fort.

Show Details:

• 1st Show: English (all days)
• 2nd Show: Telugu (Monday, Wednesday, Friday), Hindi (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday)

Timings:

• First Show:
  • November to February: 6:30 p.m.
  • March to October: 7:00 p.m.
• Second Show:
  • November to February: 7:45 p.m.
  • March to October: 8:15 p.m.

Ticket Counter Timing: Opens at 5:30 p.m.

Ticket Prices:

• Executive Class: Rs. 140 (adult) and Rs. 110 (child)
• Normal Class: Rs. 80 (adult) and Rs. 60 (child)

Golconda Fort Timings and Entry Fees:

Visiting Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Entry Fees:

• Indians: Rs. 5
• Foreign Tourists: Rs. 100
• Still Camera: Rs. 25
• Sound & Light Show: Rs. 130

How To Reach Golconda Fort:

Golconda Fort is approximately 9 km from Hussain Sagar Lake and can be easily accessed by car, bus, or auto-rickshaw.

Hotels Near Golconda Fort Hyderabad:

Please check the below list of nearby hotels with its distance:

• TreeboTrend Fort Club (2.9 km)
• Treebo Trend Srico (3.6 km)
• Treebo Trip AND Suits (3.9 km)
• OYO 10209 Hotel AVS Sweet Magic (4.0 km)
• OYO 6661 Aurum Abode (2.4 km)
• OYO 35860 Park Stay (2.8 km)
• SilverKey Executive stays 17209 Malikarjuna Residency Gachibowli (3.1 km)
• OYO Flagship 35993 Puppalaguda (3.7 km)
• Oyo 22474 Neon Homes (3.8 km)
• OYO Flagship 14348 Apollo Hospital (3.9 km)

Why Should You Visit Golconda Fort?

This historical place offers a rich variety of history, architecture, and cultural interest. It is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Golconda Fort welcomes visitors with a slight entry fee of Rs. 5 for Indians and Rs. 100 for foreign tourists. Don’t miss the nice light and sound show held in the evenings, which brings the fort’s royal past to life. The first show starts at 6:30 p.m. (November to February) or 7:00 p.m. (March to October) followed by a second show at 7:45 p.m. (November to February) or 8:15 p.m. (March to October). Tickets for the show range from Rs. 60 to Rs. 140 making it an affordable & unforgettable addition to your visit. With its rich history, architectural beauty, and attracting evening show, Golconda Fort is a must-visit destination in Hyderabad.

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