The Invincible Grandeur of the Daulatabad Fort in Aurangabad

Daulatabad Fort, Aurangabad
Daulatabad Fort:The Most Complex Monument of the Midieval Period
Daulatabad Fort, Aurangabad
Daulatabad Fort: The Most Complex Monument of the Medieval Period

Location: Aurangabad, Maharashtra

The architectural masterpieces of India are as unique as the country itself. Each piece of architecture has its own eccentricity and grandeur. As we talk about uniqueness, one place that strikes my mind right away is the Daulatabad Fort in Aurangabad. Built in the 12th Century, this fort is said to be the impenetrable fort of that time. Established by Raja Bhillamraj of the Yadav clan, it later passed on to several other dynasties of the Deccan.

Located on a pyramid-shaped hill, the Daulatabad Fort was one of the most imposing structures that fascinated the rulers in the Medieval period. The present name “Daulatabad” was coined by Muhammad Tughlaq, the Sultan of Delhi. Impressed by the fort’s grandeur and security, he moved his capital from Delhi to Daulatabad, along with the entire population of Delhi. The fort is situated on a 200-metre-high hill amidst an isolated landscape. It has the most complex and detailed defense system, which was designed to keep the intruders at bay. Three concentric walls, known as the kots, surround the fort for high-security. To get into the main fort, one has to go through several hurdles like the three walls, a water body, a dark zig-zag passage and some 400 steps.

The Daulatabad Fort has survived the ravages of time without any need for restoration. Though it requires a serious effort to climb up the fort, but once you get there, the breath-taking view of the landscape will prove to be worthy of the hardship. This majestic fort comprises a number of monuments within its structure, such as Jami Masjid, Chand Minar, Bharatmata Mandir, the Elephant Tank and the “Chini Mahal” or the Chinese Palace. It is an absolutely thrilling experience trying to conquer the fort which was once impenetrable. Daulatabad Fort is a masterpiece of an intelligent architecture. Spending a day at this fort will definitely make you proud of the Indian history!

Timings: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Entry Fee:  Rs. 10 per person for indian nationals
Rs. 100 per person for foreign nationals

Visit Duration: 2 t0 3 hours

Quick Tips:

  • Start early to avoid crowd and to be back before it’s dark.
  • Wear comfortable footwear as you’ll need to walk a lot.
  • Don’t forget to take sufficient water and food along.
  • Take adequate breaks while climbing, to avoid straining of muscles.
  • Prefer taking a local guide with you so that you don’t lose your way.
  • Keep a copy of the Daulatabad Fort Guide handy.