Gooty Fort Gutti Fort Anantapur District Andhra Pradesh

Prabhuling jiroli

Jul 8, 2025 1:53 pm

๐Ÿ“œ Introduction

Gooty Fort, also known as Gutti Fort, is one of the oldest hill forts in Andhra Pradesh. Situated in the Anantapur district, it rises majestically above the town of Gooty (pronounced 'Gutti') and offers a stunning view of the surrounding plains. The fort is a beautiful blend of history, architecture, and natural trekking adventure, making it a must-visit for history buffs, trekkers, and photographers alike.


๐Ÿ—“๏ธ Historical Timeline

PeriodRuler/DynastyKey Events
3rd Century BCESatavahanasInitial fortifications on the hill said to have existed
7thโ€“8th CenturyBadami ChalukyasStrengthened fort as a strategic outpost
11thโ€“12th CenturyHoysalasFurther renovations and usage as a military post
14th CenturyVijayanagara EmpireMajor expansion; stone walls and multiple gateways added
17th CenturyQutb Shahi DynastyModified into a defensive hill fort against Mughal advances
18th CenturyMarathas (including Murari Rao Ghorpade)Murari Rao made Gooty his base and built granaries, water tanks, and palace structures
1775British East India CompanyTook over fort; used as a strategic garrison point

๐Ÿงฑ Architecture & Structure

  • Built primarily using granite and lime mortar

  • Comprises 15 gates, bastions, and watchtowers

  • Spread over fortified hills at ~680 meters elevation

  • Multiple citadels at varying levels, connected via stone steps

  • Murari Raoโ€™s palace ruins are visible at the summit

  • Includes two main reservoirs and multiple stepwells for water conservation

๐Ÿฐ Key Sections of the Fort:

SectionDescription
Main GatewayKnown as "Mar Gooty Gate," with Indo-Islamic architectural elements
Murari Raoโ€™s PalaceRuins atop the hill with a panoramic view
GranaryStorage for food grains; built for wartime contingencies
TemplesRuins of Hindu temples, including Lord Hanuman and Shiva shrines
Watch TowersStrategic vantage points for enemy surveillance
Bastions (Burjs)Semi-circular, well-positioned to defend all directions

๐Ÿงญ How to Reach Gooty Fort

  • ๐Ÿ“ Location: Gooty Town, Anantapur District, Andhra Pradesh

๐Ÿš† By Train:

  • Nearest Railway Station: Gooty Railway Station (GY)

  • Distance from Fort: ~3 km

๐ŸšŒ By Road:

  • Well-connected by NH 44 (Old NH 7)

  • Buses and private vehicles can reach the base of the hill

  • Parking available near fort base

๐Ÿ›ซ By Air:

  • Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (~250 km)

  • You can hire a cab or take a train/bus to Gooty


๐Ÿฅพ Trekking Details

โฑ๏ธ Trek Time:

  • Average Time: 1.5 to 2.5 hours one-way

  • Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult (due to rugged terrain and steep steps)

๐Ÿ”„ Routes:

  • Route 1 (Main Gate Path): Popular, has stairs and signage

  • Route 2 (Old Guard Trail): Less maintained, steeper; adventurous option

๐Ÿ“‹ What to Carry:

  • Water bottles (min. 2 liters per person)

  • Cap/hat and sunglasses ๐Ÿงข๐Ÿ˜Ž

  • Energy bars/snacks

  • Comfortable trekking shoes ๐Ÿฅพ

  • Sunscreen ๐Ÿงด

  • Basic first-aid

  • Power bank for phones ๐Ÿ”‹


โŒ What NOT to Do:

  • Avoid trekking during monsoons (slippery rocks)

  • Donโ€™t carry plastic; keep the fort clean ๐Ÿšฏ

  • Donโ€™t climb without proper gear

  • Avoid isolated areas after dark


โ˜€๏ธ Best Time to Visit

SeasonRemarks
October to FebruaryIdeal weather for trekking and exploration
March to JuneVery hot; avoid due to heatstroke risk โ˜€๏ธ๐Ÿ”ฅ
July to SeptemberMonsoons; scenic but slippery terrain ๐ŸŒง๏ธ

๐Ÿšซ Whom Should Avoid:

  • Elderly with heart or respiratory problems

  • Young children below 6 years

  • People with vertigo or fear of heights


๐ŸŽฏ Why You Must Visit

  • Rich historical layers from Satavahanas to British

  • Incredible panoramic views from the summit

  • Ancient architecture and military engineering

  • Perfect trekking spot with minimal commercial interference

  • Photographerโ€™s paradise ๐Ÿ“ธ

  • Sunrise & sunset views are breathtaking


๐Ÿ“ธ What to Do There

  • Photography of ruins, gates, and panoramic views

  • Bird watching ๐Ÿฆ

  • Explore palace remains and bastions

  • Sketching or plein air painting ๐ŸŽจ

  • Guided tour (if available during tourist season)


๐Ÿš๏ธ Current Condition & Maintenance

  • Managed by Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

  • Some parts are in ruins; restoration ongoing

  • Signage and maps installed near major checkpoints

  • Still not commercialized, so retains natural charm


๐Ÿ“ Entry Information

DetailInfo
Entry FeeFree
TimingsSunrise to Sunset (6 AM โ€“ 6 PM)
Guide AvailableSometimes during peak season
Nearby StaysLodges in Gooty town, hotels in Anantapur (50 km away)

๐Ÿ“Œ Summary Table

FeatureDetails
Elevation~680 meters
Historical SignificanceMaratha base, multi-dynasty fortification
Trek Duration1.5 to 2.5 hours (one-way)
LocationGooty, Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh
Best SeasonOctโ€“Feb
Gates15 total, major: Mar Gooty Gate
StructuresPalace, granaries, bastions, stepwells

๐Ÿ“ข Final Tips

  • Start early in the morning ๐ŸŒ…

  • Carry all essentials, as no shops are on the trek path

  • Download offline maps in case of poor signal

  • Be respectful of heritage; avoid graffiti ๐Ÿงฑ


๐Ÿ™ Conclusion

Gooty Fort isnโ€™t just a historical monumentโ€”itโ€™s a time capsule hidden in the rocky hills of Andhra Pradesh. With a compelling backstory, rich architecture, and adventurous terrain, it offers a fulfilling mix of heritage and thrill. If you're someone who seeks more than just sightseeing and wants to walk through the footsteps of history, Gooty Fort should definitely be on your bucket list!