Devarakonda, is a village and mandal headquarters, situated in Nalgonda district, home to one of the most astonishing forts found in Telangana. Devarakonda Fort is a hilltop fortress built in the 14th Century AD by the Recherla Velama Kings of Maada Nayudu clan. This fort is considered to be of historic importance as it played a key role in ousting the Islamic rule of the Mughals. It was important battle place of those times.

The historic Devarakonda fort is also considered an epitome of the architectural brilliance and grandeur of the Recherla Padmanayaka kings. For travelers, who love to explore the chronicles of the state, Devarakonda Fort is a must-visit destination on their itinerary!

History

A visit to this spectacular fort is like stepping in to a historical trance with every corner of the fort unveiling great tales of bravery, and triumph of its rulers. The fort was constructed during 13th – 14th century. The Devarakonda fort is the emblem of prosperity established by the kingdom of Padma Nayaka Veluma Rajas from 1278 to 1482 AD.

Later, the Devarakonda fort was conquered by Maada Naidu who belonged to the eight kings of the Padma Nayaka rulers. Maada Naidu was a prodigy and a brave warrior besides being a great ruler. It was during Maada Naidu’s rule that the fort took the shape of a well-established center of cultural heritage. After Maada Naidu, the strings of the flourishing Devarakonda Kingdom went into the hands of Maada Naidu’s son, Pedha Vedagiri Naidu. Vedagiri Naidu was also a brave king who had established his throne for around 26 years.

Architectural Highlights

Devarakonda Fort is an example of brilliant work in stones. The fort is built entirely of granite stone, over a hilltop. This fortress is known for great walls with curved bastions all along with it. The outer walls are quite stronger while the fortress occupies an expansive terrain of metamorphic rock area on the hills. The ramparts of Devarakonda Fort are built on steep areas making it inaccessible for invaders. There are only 3-meter wide rock-carved steps for reaching its main gateway and it was built as a commanding fort.

The ramparts feature artillery and cannon points while the gateways are built in the traditional Hindu style of art. The fort complexes consist of two stories, with many granaries. There are few spaces for garrison, magazine house, living area and small complexes. It is an impregnable fort due to its strategic location, well-created defense structures and other features like the secret exit routes which were used by the kings and royalty during emergency.

Religious Significance

The major highlight of this fort is the Lord Rama Temple. This historic temple is a stone marvel, with minute stone carvings depicting Vedas on the temple walls. There is also a famous Lord Shiva Temple with a famous cosmic pillar. These temples add a hint of spirituality and purity to the untouched beauty of the fort. Tourists visiting the fort are enthralled by the picturesque views of the panoramic landscape and a beautiful pond. The magnificent fort brought immense name and fame to the region by virtue of its architectural splendor.

How to Reach

Devarakonda is at a distance of nearly 117 km from Hyderabad on Nagarjuna Sagar road, from where tourists need to take a small diversion from Kondalpahad. There are frequent buses from Nalgonda to Devarakonda village.