Prabhuling jiroli
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.
Period | Ruler/Dynasty | Key Events |
---|---|---|
3rd Century BCE | Satavahanas | Initial fortifications on the hill said to have existed |
7thโ8th Century | Badami Chalukyas | Strengthened fort as a strategic outpost |
11thโ12th Century | Hoysalas | Further renovations and usage as a military post |
14th Century | Vijayanagara Empire | Major expansion; stone walls and multiple gateways added |
17th Century | Qutb Shahi Dynasty | Modified into a defensive hill fort against Mughal advances |
18th Century | Marathas (including Murari Rao Ghorpade) | Murari Rao made Gooty his base and built granaries, water tanks, and palace structures |
1775 | British East India Company | Took over fort; used as a strategic garrison point |
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 Raoโs palace ruins are visible at the summit
Includes two main reservoirs and multiple stepwells for water conservation
๐ฐ Key Sections of the Fort:
Section | Description |
Main Gateway | Known as "Mar Gooty Gate," with Indo-Islamic architectural elements |
Murari Raoโs Palace | Ruins atop the hill with a panoramic view |
Granary | Storage for food grains; built for wartime contingencies |
Temples | Ruins of Hindu temples, including Lord Hanuman and Shiva shrines |
Watch Towers | Strategic vantage points for enemy surveillance |
Bastions (Burjs) | Semi-circular, well-positioned to defend all directions |
๐ Location: Gooty Town, Anantapur District, Andhra Pradesh
๐ By Train:
Nearest Railway Station: Gooty Railway Station (GY)
Distance from Fort: ~3 km
๐ 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
๐ซ By Air:
Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (~250 km)
You can hire a cab or take a train/bus to Gooty
โฑ๏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)
๐ Routes:
Route 1 (Main Gate Path): Popular, has stairs and signage
Route 2 (Old Guard Trail): Less maintained, steeper; adventurous option
๐ What to Carry:
Water bottles (min. 2 liters per person)
Cap/hat and sunglasses ๐งข๐
Energy bars/snacks
Comfortable trekking shoes ๐ฅพ
Sunscreen ๐งด
Basic first-aid
Power bank for phones ๐
Avoid trekking during monsoons (slippery rocks)
Donโt carry plastic; keep the fort clean ๐ฏ
Donโt climb without proper gear
Avoid isolated areas after dark
Season | Remarks |
October to February | Ideal weather for trekking and exploration |
March to June | Very hot; avoid due to heatstroke risk โ๏ธ๐ฅ |
July to September | Monsoons; scenic but slippery terrain ๐ง๏ธ |
๐ซ Whom Should Avoid:
Elderly with heart or respiratory problems
Young children below 6 years
People with vertigo or fear of heights
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
Photographerโs paradise ๐ธ
Sunrise & sunset views are breathtaking
Photography of ruins, gates, and panoramic views
Bird watching ๐ฆ
Explore palace remains and bastions
Sketching or plein air painting ๐จ
Guided tour (if available during tourist season)
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
Detail | Info |
Entry Fee | Free |
Timings | Sunrise to Sunset (6 AM โ 6 PM) |
Guide Available | Sometimes during peak season |
Nearby Stays | Lodges in Gooty town, hotels in Anantapur (50 km away) |
Feature | Details |
Elevation | ~680 meters |
Historical Significance | Maratha base, multi-dynasty fortification |
Trek Duration | 1.5 to 2.5 hours (one-way) |
Location | Gooty, Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh |
Best Season | OctโFeb |
Gates | 15 total, major: Mar Gooty Gate |
Structures | Palace, granaries, bastions, stepwells |
Start early in the morning ๐
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 ๐งฑ
Gooty Fort isnโt just a historical monumentโitโs 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!