Elgandal Fort

Elgandal Fort is a historic hill fort situated on the banks of the Manair River, approximately 10 kilometers from Karimnagar in Telangana. Originally built during the Kakatiya dynasty and later strengthened by various rulers including the Qutb Shahi and Nizams, the fort features stone fortifications, mosques, tombs, and the notable Teen Minar. Visitors can explore the ancient structures, climb 300 stairs to reach the top, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and Lower Manair Dam reservoir.

Visitors can expect to explore a historic hill fort with stone walls, gateways, and defensive structures. The site includes two mosques, several tombs of Muslim saints, the Brundavan Pond, and the Teen Minar (Three Towers). Access requires climbing approximately 300 stairs. The fort offers scenic views of Elgandal town, the Manair River, and the Lower Manair Dam reservoir. The surroundings feature palm groves and countryside landscapes.

Originally known as Veligundula, the fort was built during the Kakatiya dynasty (1083-1323) and served as a stronghold for the Musunuri Nayaks. It was later occupied by the Qutb Shahi dynasty in the 16th century, followed by the Mughal Empire and the Nizams of Hyderabad. The fort served as the district headquarters until 1905 when it was shifted to Karimnagar. The fort was surrounded by a crocodile-filled moat approximately 5 meters wide and 4 meters deep for defense.

The fort houses mosques and tombs of revered Muslim saints including Syed Shah Munawar Quadri Saheb, Syed Maroof Saheb, and others, making it a site of religious significance. The Eidgah within the fort is used for special Eid prayers.