Located 16 kilometres from Guntur and situated atop a hill at an altitude of 1,700 feet, Kondaveedu Fort is an ancient fort that bears witness to the rich history of Andhra Pradesh. With a long winding road that leads up to the fort, visitors can enjoy a journey through time as they traverse through the lush greenery and stunning landscapes that surround the ancient fort.
The fort dates back to the 14th century and was built by the Kakatiya dynasty as a defence against invading armies. The fort was later taken over by the Reddy dynasty before being annexed by the Vijayanagara Empire. During the reign of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, the fort was once again under attack and eventually fell into ruin.
Today, the fort offers visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Andhra Pradesh. The winding road up to the fort is itself a marvel of engineering, weaving its way through the hills and providing stunning panoramas of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, visitors can explore a number of historic sites, including the ruins of the Palace of Krishna Deva Raya and the ancient temple of Lord Venugopala Swamy.
One of the most striking features of the fort is its extensive network of intricate water systems. These systems, which include a large tank and several wells, were used to collect and store rainwater for use during dry seasons. The water systems were so advanced that they provided enough water to support the fort’s inhabitants for several years.
Visitors can also explore the various bastions and gates that once protected the fort. The gates bear intricate carvings and inscriptions that provide insight into the fort’s history and the societies that built it. The bastions, which once housed soldiers and their weapons, offer panoramic views that stretch for miles.
As with many historic sites, Kondaveedu Fort has suffered from neglect and vandalism over the years. Despite this, efforts have been made to preserve and restore the fort. Visitors can witness ongoing restoration work at the fort, which has included the reconstruction of crumbling walls and the conservation of important artefacts and inscriptions.
The winding road to Kondaveedu Fort is not just a journey through time, but also a journey through nature and the stunning landscapes of Andhra Pradesh. Visitors can stop along the way to enjoy a quiet picnic or take a refreshing dip in one of the many natural springs that surround the fort.
If you’re planning a road trip to Kondaveedu Fort, here are some things you need to know before you go.
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Kondaveedu Fort is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and cool.
- Route: The fort is located about 32 km from the city of Guntur. The most convenient way to get there is by road. You can take a taxi or drive your own car to the fort. The route to the fort is well-maintained, and the drive is scenic, passing through lush green fields and hills.
- Parking: There is ample parking space available near the fort. However, it is advisable to park your car in a safe and secure spot and not leave any valuables inside.
- Entrance fees: There is no entrance fee to visit the fort.
- Wear comfortable clothes: As the fort is located on a hilltop, there is a fair amount of walking involved. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes to make the climb easier.
- Carry water and snacks: There are no shops or restaurants near the fort, so it’s a good idea to carry water and snacks with you.
- Plan your visit: Plan your visit to the fort in advance, as it can get crowded during weekends and holidays.
By keeping these things in mind, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable road trip to Kondaveedu Fort.