Daulatabad Fort Review

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Daulatabad Fort

  • Address: 13 km west of Old Town, on the highway to the Ellora Caves, Aurangabad, Maharashtra
Write a review | Avg. member rating: 3.6/5

Fodor's Review:

More than a mere gateway, Aurangabad has a number of ancient sites of its own, such as the imposing Daulatabad Fort, built in 1187 by the Hindu king and surrounded by seven giant walls more than 5 km (3 mi) long. Daulatabad was once called Deogiri, or "hill of the gods," but was changed to "city of fortune" when the sultan of Delhi overtook it in 1308. Devote at least half a day to this fascinating fort, considered one of India's most impressive. There is a wonderful view of the plains from the acropolis (fortified city) on the top. As you enter the fort you enter a labyrinth—note the moats, spikes, cannons, and dark maze of tunnels designed to make the fort as impregnable from enemies as possible. Equally interesting is the Jami Masjid (large mosque) inside; it was made from horizontal lintels and pillars taken from Jain and Hindu temples. Hindu folks around here put a lot of store in a puja (worship) done at the top of the fort and then down below, at the exit.

  • Cost: Foreigners US$2
  • Open: Daily sunrise-6
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Member Reviews and Ratings

Reviewed by maparnapari from India on 9/10/09
One must explore this fort and climb the minaret which is worth exploring, especially the 'Jantar Mantar' whrein one tends to get lost in the dimly illuminated area at the top (which is supposed to confuse the enemies) It did higly confuse me ! Caution: Hire a guide if you plan to enter this minaret, especially intend to climb to the top and enter the 'Jantat Mantar'

Member Rating: 3.6
Ratings details: Experience: 4.0 Ease: 3.0 Value: 4.0 Don't Miss: 3.0
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