There's a certain charm about regality and ruins. While walking amidst the vintages of a bygone era, you can't help but feel a certain nostalgic connect with the past.
It's almost as if you can still hear the trumpet of victory, the clangor of swords, the thumping of drums and the marching of soldiers.
An air of melancholic reminiscence surrounds you.
A grand vestige of time slowly crumbling into rubble.
*******************************************
Built in 1076 AD by Chalukya ruler Tribhuvanamalla Vikramaditya IV, Bhongir Fort resides on the top of a unique egg-shaped monolithic rock.
This is Asia's second largest fort built on a basso monolith (a structure formed by cooling of magma that doesn't erupt out onto the surface)
The monolithic rock is a few billion years old. Almost comparable to the size and composition of world famous Uluru in Australia, this monolith has captured the interest of geologists for studying the composition of ancient granite structures.
Situated about 60 km from Hyderabad, and sprawled over about 50 acres, it is an one day expedition.
Bhongir sits on a unique egg-shaped rock hill more than 500 feet high. The steps from the bottom of the hill to the top are still intact, although a bit worn out over the years.
The fort features a moat filled with water lilies, trap doors, ancient armoury, stables etc.
Right at the bottom of the Hill, as you start the trek, you are greeted by the statue of Sardar Sarvai Panappa. He was a highwayman and bandit in the early 18th century India who rose from humble beginnings to become a folklore hero.
The rawness of the place, the 1000 plus years old crumbling ruins, the spectacular views of the sprawling modern city from the summit and low number of tourists make it an interesting off-beat destination.
*******************************************
Timings: open from 10 AM till 5 PM
Ensure to complete the trek in the morning hours or late afternoon as it can get really hot during noon.
It can take about 1 hour to explore the fort. Once done with the exploring, you would love to find a calm corner, breathe in the royal airs and soak in the panoramic views of the city below.
And if you are lucky enough, the sunset views are simply gorgeous.
Things to carry:
Water bottle
Eatables
Umbrella/hat
Good quality shoes for the trek
How to reach:
It is easily accessible.
You can take a bus or train from Hyderabad. Or even do a road trip.
The condition of roads is good and there are plenty of options to eat along the way.
