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Karnataka

Malkheda Fort

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January

16.3 - 31.9 °C

February

18.6 - 34.7 °C

March

22.4 - 38.1 °C

April

25.1 - 40.3 °C

May

25.9 - 40.8 °C

June

23.8 - 35.6 °C

July

22.9 - 32.4 °C

August

22.5 - 31.7 °C

September

22.5 - 32.1 °C

October

21.3 - 32.6 °C

November

18.8 - 32 °C

December

16 - 31.4 °C


Major Airports :

Kalaburagi Airport (GBI), Kalaburagi

Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD), Hyderabad

Nearest Railway Station :

Kalaburagi Junction Railway Station (KLBG)

Major Airports :

Kalaburagi Airport (GBI), Kalaburagi

Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD), Hyderabad

A witness to the bygone era

Picture a sun-drenched terrain where echoes of historic conflicts blend with the melodies of birds, where decaying fortifications safeguard lost civilisations and each stone resonates with the echoes of ancient rulers.

Tucked away in the plains of Karnataka, about 40 kilometres southeast of the lively city of Kalaburagi, stands Malkheda Fort, a grand guardian bearing witness to bygone eras. Its aged battlements, adorned with the tales of various dynasties, invite intrepid explorers to step into a voyage through history.

Formerly called Manyakheta, Malkheda served as the capital for the Rashtrakuta rulers. This significant location houses the forgotten Malkheda Fort, a relic of the once thriving city that played a pivotal role in trade, culture, and religion in South India.

Behold the grandeur of heritage

Inside the formidable walls of Malkheda Fort lies a treasure trove of history and architectural marvels waiting to be explored. As you step through its ancient gateways, you are transported back in time to an era of grandeur and kingdoms.

The fort, with its four entrances and 52 bastions, stands as a testament to the strategic prowess of its builders. Each stone of its weathered walls whispers tales of battles fought and victories won, guarding the secrets of the past within its sturdy embrace.

Let's take a tour

As you walk through the huge entrance with two large bastions on either side, you will notice a narrow design on the top of each bastion. This is also made of stone and fitted into the construction.

A striking feature of this fort is thick outer walls of about 20 feet in height, built with limestone blocks also known as Shahabad stones. The main entrance welcomes you with remnants of wooden doors still hanging on by the hinges which tell the stories of the yesteryears.

There are numerous watch towers along the walls of the fort to keep an eye on the enemies and the intruders. These watch towers are accessible by very narrow and curved staircase. In addition to enhance security, some of these watch towers also provide a beautiful view of Kabini River flowing closeby.


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Harmonious coexistence of different faiths

An interesting feature of this fort is presence of a Hanuman temple, a Jain temple or a Jaina basadi with an idol of one of the foremost Tirthankaras and Jumma Mosque and several dargahs. Most of these religious monuments are in ruins but the presence of all of them within the fort complex speaks of the harmonious coexistence of different religious communities over the period of time.

Historians visiting this fort also get intrigued by seeing the ruins of a Palace and some parts of canons which adds another layer of significance to this ancient edifice, providing valuable insights into the cultural heritage and the military might of the erstwhile rulers.

Other wonders around

While the ancient Malkheda Fort whispers tales of the Rashtrakuta dynasty, the surrounding Kalaburagi region holds its own treasures waiting to be discovered. Just a short drive away, the imposing Gulbarga Fort stands as a testament to the area's rich Islamic heritage, its massive walls and intricate mosques inviting history enthusiasts to step back in time. For those seeking spiritual solace, the revered Khwaja Banda Nawaz Dargah beckons with its stunning architecture and peaceful ambience. And for a taste of local culture, the bustling streets of Kalaburagi city offer a sensory journey through colourful markets and aromatic food stalls, perfectly encapsulating the region's vibrant spirit.

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