Domakonda Fort, also known as "Domakonda Quilla", is located in Domakonda village in the district of Nizamabad in Andhra Pradesh state. It is situated almost 98 km from Hyderabad city. Domakonda Fort was built almost 400 years ago by Kamineni Vamsam of Reddy dynasty. Domakonda Fort was primarily used as a fortified defensive structure. The Domakonda Fort stands as an example of the defensive architecture of its period. The architecture of the fortress displays both Hindu and Muslim designs. There are many temples in the vicinity, such as the Mahakali Temple and the Lord Shiva Temple which was founded by the Kakatiya rulers. At present, the fort and temples in Domakonda is under the control and protection of the Government of India. The site is now open to tourists and visitors through out the year.
Structure of the Domakonda Fort
Domakonda Fort was built during 18th Century and it has an elevated compound of granite rocks that forms the fort wall. The main entrance of the fort has an arched gateway which consists of great stuccowork that shows influence of architectural designs of the Asaf Jahi Dynasty.
The fort has a number of tall, round and square fortresses running over its compound walls. There is also a temple complex inside the compound wall. Domakonda Fort also includes two palaces that were located inside the fort area. These palaces were built magnificently. The ground floor consists of arched pillars with intricate stuccowork showing the influence of Mughal architecture. The first floor has round pillars along with a flat ceiling, which depicts Western architecture. The windows have beautiful paintings and the carvings and designs on the wooden architecture are also captivating. A lotus pond guarded by beautiful granite pillars is present near the two palaces. The fort is an architectural marvel to be explored and stands a testimony to the grandeur of Telangana heritage. Presently, the royal families of Domakonda exercise administrative control the fort.
The temple devoted to Lord Shiva was established during the rule of the kings of Kakatiya Dynasty. The structure was built on a platform which is 3 feet high. There is a sculpture of Nandi, the divine bull of Shiva, carved from a single stone located outside the temple. The Shiva temple has 18 pillars which are made of carved stone. There is also a massive Shiva Linga (Lingam) in the temple.
How to Reach Domakonda Fort
Domakonda is can be reached after taking a 4 km diversion main road on the way to Nizamabad from Hyderabad and is situated at a distance of 100 Kms from Hyderabad.