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ANDHRA PRADESH

Charminar, Hyderabad

Surrounded by narrow lanes the Charminar, was built by Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah, in honour of his wife, Bhagmati. The famous monument derives it's name from the four pillars surrounding the structure.

Hyderabad has seen many ups and downs. It was in 1591 that Charminar, one of the most remarkable monuments of Hyderabad was constructed. The height of these minars are 180 feet. This structure was built to commemorate end of Plague in the state. Elegant balconies, stucco decorations and the small mosque adorn this structure. This is one of the he oldest mosques in Hyderabad. From the minars, there is a panoramic view of the city. An underground path is believed to connect Charminar with the Golconda fort.

Charminar is surrounded by markets and many other structures which adds to its grace. Shahali Banda, Laad Bazar, Kali Kaman and Patthar Gatti flank Charminar on its four sides. The structure here show mixed Indian and Mughal architectural styles.

Golkonda Fort, Hyderabad

This fort was built by Kakatiya kings. From this fort they ruled the nearby areas even when their capital was based in Warrangal. This massive fort is 11 km in perimeter and its walls are 15 to 18 ft high. The whole fort is built in granite and is flanked by 70 ramparts and 8 huge gates. Previously the whole fort was surrounded by a deep gorge but slowly this was filled up. While entering from the main gate of the fort, if one claps below the dome, echoes are heard in a Darbar hall some 128 meter away.