Konda Reddy Fort The Watchtower of Kurnool's Legacy
Prabhuling jiroli
📄 Introduction
Konda Reddy Fort, also known as Kurnool Fort, is a historic citadel located in the heart of Kurnool city, Andhra Pradesh. Though much smaller in size compared to hill forts like Adoni or Gandikota, it holds immense strategic, cultural, and political significance in the region's history.
Built as a watchtower and strategic outpost, Konda Reddy Fort became a symbol of resistance and resilience, especially during the times of regional feuds and colonial encounters.
🗓️ Historical Timeline of Konda Reddy Fort
| Period | Ruler/Dynasty | Key Developments |
|---|---|---|
| 12th Century CE | Cholas & Kakatiyas | Initial control over the Kurnool region |
| 14th Century CE | Vijayanagara Empire | Strategic importance rises; Fortification begins |
| 17th Century CE | Konda Reddy Nayakas | Tower constructed by Konda Reddy |
| 18th Century CE | Nawabs of Kurnool | Used as prison, tower reinforced |
| British Era | British East India Company | Used for surveillance; later neglected |
⚖️ Historical Significance
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Named after Konda Reddy, the last ruler of Alampur who was imprisoned here by the Nawab of Kurnool.
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The fort is famous for the Konda Reddy Buruju (Watchtower), which gives a panoramic view of Kurnool.
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A hidden underground passage is said to connect the fort to the Tungabhadra River.
🗺️ Architecture and Layout
| Feature | Description |
| Bastions | Round bastions at corners for watch and defense |
| Watchtower (Buruju) | Iconic 3-floor stone tower with spiral staircases |
| Tunnel Passage | Alleged escape route to Tungabhadra (mostly blocked now) |
| Granite Walls | Thick stone walls, some parts now damaged |
📍 How to Reach Konda Reddy Fort
🚆 By Train:
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Kurnool City Railway Station – Just 1.5 km from the fort
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Connected to major cities like Hyderabad, Bangalore, Vijayawada
🚌 By Road:
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Located within Kurnool city, easily reachable via autos, buses, and taxis
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NH-44 passes close by
🛬 By Air:
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Nearest Airport: Kurnool Airport (Uyyalawada Narasimha Reddy Airport) ~20 km
🏋️♂️ Trekking & Exploration Guide
⏱️ Duration:
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30 minutes to 1 hour (casual exploration)
⛺ Routes:
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Main Entrance:
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Wide stone stair path, ideal for all age groups
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Rear Side Path:
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Slightly rugged trail, often used by locals for shortcuts
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☀️ Best Time to Visit
| Season | Remarks |
| Oct–Feb | Cool and pleasant ☕ |
| Mar–May | Very hot, best to visit early morning |
| Jun–Sep | Monsoons, slight slipperiness on steps ☔ |
❌ Who Should Avoid
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People expecting long treks or hill climbing
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Elderly with difficulty in climbing narrow stairs
✅ What to Carry
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Water bottle (1L sufficient)
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Camera or mobile for photography 📸
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Cap and sunscreen ☀️
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No trekking gear needed
⛔ What Not to Do
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Don’t scribble on the walls ❌
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Avoid climbing top areas without railings
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Don’t throw litter in the surrounding areas
🌍 Places to See Inside the Fort
| Spot | Description |
| Watchtower (Buruju) | Signature structure, offers view of the city ✨ |
| Ancient Tunnel | Now closed, but historically used for escapes |
| Outer Walls | Some with faded carvings and cannon spots |
| Stone Platforms | Possibly used for guards and ceremonies |
📸 Activities to Do
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Photography
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Guided heritage walks
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Visit nearby Oravakallu Rock Garden or Tungabhadra Bridge
🏥 Facilities & Entry Info
| Feature | Details |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Timings | 6:00 AM – 6:30 PM |
| Food Options | Available in nearby Kurnool town |
| Guide | Not mandatory; local volunteers sometimes available |
| Washrooms | None at fort; available nearby |
📅 Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
| Location | Kurnool City |
| Elevation | ~500 feet |
| Built By | Vijayanagara rulers & Konda Reddy |
| Primary Use | Watchtower & Prison |
| Accessibility | High, located in city center |
| Trekking | Minimal, beginner friendly |
🙏 Conclusion
Konda Reddy Fort is a compact yet powerful reminder of Kurnool's layered history. With a central location, easy access, and intriguing stories, it's ideal for a short heritage trip, family outing, or a history-themed photowalk.
Don’t miss the majestic Buruju, echoing tales of valor, betrayal, and resilience. Perfect for beginners and locals seeking a slice of medieval Andhra in a modern city.