India is a land of diverse wonders waiting to be explored. Each state has unique attractions, from ancient temples and majestic forts to breathtaking natural landscapes. While Hyderabad may steal the spotlight, Telangana has many hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. One such hidden gem is the Devarakonda Fort in Nalgonda district. Built in the 13th – 14th century by the kingdom of Padma Nayaka Veluma Rajas, this fort boasts a picturesque water body and a well that has never dried up, providing a lifeline during droughts. Perched on a commanding hilltop, the fort offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of Devarakonda town and its surroundings, making it a truly captivating destination.
The fort is nestled in a picturesque landscape surrounded by majestic hills, imposing boulders, and lush forests. Despite the unfortunate lack of maintenance by the authorities, the fortress exudes a captivating aura through its gracefully preserved ruins. The fort provides a striking example of how the adjacent hills were strategically used to construct the boundary walls to protect against potential invasions.
Initially constructed by the Velama Kings as a defensive stronghold against adversaries and invasions, the fort flourished in its prime. It boasted a lake, well-stocked granaries, expansive living quarters, imposing walls, and intricately designed curved bastions. Adding to the fort's allure are the stairs that lead to Patala Ganga, located in Srisailam. These stairs showcase an astonishing feat of engineering and provide an additional layer of historical and cultural significance to the site. The presence of the Rama and Shiva temples further enriches the spiritual and historical tapestry of the fort, contributing to its untouched and captivating beauty.
The construction of Devarakonda Fort began with Singama Nayaka, but it was completed by Maada Naidu, one of the kings of the Padma Nayaka rulers during the 13th and 14th centuries. During his rule, the fort became a well-established cultural heritage centre, and several temples were constructed. After Maada Naidu, the thriving Devarakonda Kingdom passed into the hands of his son, Pedha Vedagiri Naidu.
The Deccan Heritage Academy considers Devarakonda Fort one of the most important historical sites in the Nalgonda district. 'Devarakonda' translates to "the hill of the Gods". Despite falling into disrepair, recent efforts have been made to conserve it. In 2021, news reports indicated increased heritage tourism at Devarakonda Fort following a beautification project to restore the heritage structure. Local cultural programs under the banner of 'Save Devarakonda Fort' were organized to promote the history of the Devarakonda rulers. Heritage walks were also conducted to raise awareness about the fort's history. In 2022, the Deccan Heritage Academy expressed satisfaction with Heritage Telangana's conservation and beautification works at Devarakonda Fort. They have planned various conservation initiatives and comprehensive documentation for the fort and its historical relics to develop the site as a tourist destination.
In this area, where the sun shines brightly, it is crucial to carry a high SPF sunscreen, UV-protective sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield yourself from the intense UV rays. Packing an ample supply of water and substantial snacks is also advisable. Moreover, it is of utmost importance to refrain from littering to preserve the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Nagarjunakonda
Nagarjunakonda, located approximately 25 km from the fort, is an island in the Guntur district; it was once a significant historical Buddhist town. In ancient times, this place was known as Sri Parvata. It is indisputably one of India's most opulent Buddhist sites and now lies almost entirely under the lake where the Nagarjuna Sagar Dam was created. The place was named after Nagarjuna, a Mahayana Buddhist.
Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve
The Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve, established in 1978, spans five districts - Nalgonda, Mahbubnagar, Kurnool, Prakasam, and Guntur. The reserve came under the protection of Project Tiger in 1983. Notable waterfalls in the reserve include Ethipothala Falls, Pedda Dukudu, Gundam, and Chaleswaram. In 1992, the reserve was renamed as Rajiv Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary.
Devarakonda is located approximately 117 kilometres from Hyderabad on the Nagarjuna Sagar road. It takes about 3 hours to reach Devarakonda from Hyderabad by road and about an hour to reach Devarakonda from Nalgonda town. There are frequent buses from Nalgonda to Devarakonda, departing every 20 minutes. The nearest major train station and airport are located in Hyderabad.