The historic and most popular Koilkonda Fort is the erstwhile outpost of the Qutab Shahi dynasty situated on a hilltop. To reach the top, one needs to hike across a deep gorge on the west or a series of streams if coming through east before reaching a plight of steps that leads to the fort near Mahabubnagar.
To enter the Koilkonda Fort, seven gates have to be crossed. The first one spots an inscription of Ibrahim Qutab Shah that belongs to 1550 AD. Fourth gate leads to a dilapidated palace. There is also a mosque, an Idgah and a pond here. The Fort also has a ashurkhana dedicated to Bibi Fatima and is revered by both Hindus and Muslims.
Erstwhile Koilkonda Fort provides a unique hiking opportunity. For those who love adventure, thrills and everything in nature, Koilkonda Fort, situated in Mahbubnagar district, will quench your thirst for the adrenaline rush and offer peace at the same time.
At a distance of 1.3 km from Koilkonda Bus Stand, 25 km from Mahabubnagar Bus Station and 128 km from Hyderabad, Koilkonda Fort is situated at Koilkonda in Mahabubnagar district of Telangana. This is one of the best one day trip from Hyderabad.
The place, which is largely deserted and is only dominated by the tweeting of birds, provides a unique hiking opportunity. To reach the top, you need to walk across a deep canyon on the west or a series of streams, if coming through east, before reaching a flight of steps that leads to the fort. It is an erstwhile outpost of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, which is perched on a hilltop.
To enter the fort, you have to cross as many as seven gates. While the first gate spots an inscription of Ibrahim Qutb Shah that dates back to 1550 and a broad chain lying on the ground, the fourth gate leads to a dilapidated palace or a royal residence.
The trail is not fit for a beginner since the path to the top is challenging. You have to pass through thorny bushes, boulders and trails that are slippery and difficult at times. The journey might be quite strenuous and adventurous at the same time. Be prepared for at least an hour’s hike.
There is also a mosque, an Idgah and a pond here. The fort also has an ‘ashurkhana’ dedicated to Bibi Fatima.
Nonetheless, the challenging hike is worth the effort. The view from the top, of the countryside, surrounding greenery, and of Koilsagar Dam will leave you amazed. The weather on the top is pleasant. You will feel like unwinding there until the end of the day and witness the beautiful sunset from the top. But, locals say that it is not safe enough to stay at the place till nightfall since the fort is completely deserted.
Also, it is advisable to go here with a group and in broad daylight and when the weather is cool. Avoid visiting the place when the climate is hot. Start descending before sunset itself. Hydrate yourself throughout the hike. Mobile signals of Airtel and Jio are excellent in this area, even on the top. Make sure you wear trekking pants or joggers.
Wear trekking shoes since rocks are slippery. Take a basic first-aid kit and carry enough water bottles and snacks with you as there are no food stalls and water sources along the trek.
The Kolisagar Dam is a medium-sized irrigation project that was constructed in the period of the Nizams during 1945-48. The Koilsagar Dam, which is about 10 km from the Koilkonda, stretches across the Peddavagu River, a minor tributary of the River Krishna. The western stretch of this picturesque reservoir is surrounded by high hills, making it a beautiful spot and is a treat for eyes during sunrise and sunset.
Sri Ramkonda Hill is another prominent Hill with a temple dedicated to Lord Rama, which is 3 km from Koilkonda Fort. There is no motorable road to Sri Ramkonda Hill, one has to trek 3 km from the Fort. This hill is also famous for lot of herbal medicinal plants.
There is an another hill named Verrabhadra Swamy Hill nearby, to reach this hill one has to trek 2 km from Koilkonda Fort.
You can plan camping here or the water bed of the Koilsagar Dam – but only if you are expert trekkers or hikers. The condition of the road is really good and you can enjoy the ride through the countryside.
You can also visit Koilsagar Dam, located 34 km from the fort. It is a medium-sized irrigation project constructed in the period of the Nizams during 1945-48. It stretches across Peddavagu river, a minor tributary of River Krishna. The western stretch of this picturesque reservoir is surrounded by hills, making it a beautiful spot and is a treat for the eyes during sunrise and sunset. In case you love fishing don’t forget to take your fishing rods for some lovely catch. #KhabarLive #hydnews
