Daulatabad Fort Devagiri
A majestic 13th-century hill fort renowned for its strategic defense, intricate architecture, and breathtaking panoramic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Daulatabad Fort Devagiri
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic 13th-century hill fort renowned for its strategic defense, intricate architecture, and breathtaking panoramic views.
"An unforgettable experience with history, strong architecture, and beautiful surroundings. "
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Lots of steps and uneven terrain. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring!
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during the climb. There are limited vendors inside.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Dark Passage (Andheri)
Entrance
Navigate a pitch-dark, winding tunnel designed to trap invaders. A truly unique and thrilling experience!
Panoramic Summit Views
Top of the fort
Ascend to the highest point for breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding Deccan landscape.
Ancient Cannons
Various points
See impressive, well-preserved cannons that once defended this mighty fortress.
The Moat and Bridge
Lower levels
Marvel at the strategic moat, once rumored to house crocodiles, and the impressive bridge.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Climb
Embrace the Darkness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Lots of steps and uneven terrain. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring!
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during the climb. There are limited vendors inside.
🔦 Bring a Flashlight
Essential for navigating the dark, winding passages. Your phone light works too!
📸 Go to Top First
Save energy by reaching the summit first, then explore on the way down.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Lots of steps and uneven terrain. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring!
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during the climb. There are limited vendors inside.
🔦 Bring a Flashlight
Essential for navigating the dark, winding passages. Your phone light works too!
📸 Go to Top First
Save energy by reaching the summit first, then explore on the way down.
🍃 Respect the Heritage
Avoid littering to help preserve this magnificent historical site.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Daulatabad Fort for its immense historical significance, impressive architecture, and strategic brilliance. The panoramic views from the summit are a major highlight, making the challenging climb worthwhile. While some areas show signs of wear, the fort's raw authenticity and less commercialized atmosphere are appreciated.
"I recently visited Daulatabad Fort near Aurangabad, and honestly, it’s one of the most impressive forts I’ve seen. The place is full of history, and the architecture is just mind-blowing. You can literally feel how powerful and strategic it must’ve been back in the day.
The fort is built on a hill, so there’s quite a bit of climbing involved – lots of steps – so wear good shoes and carry water. But the view from the top is totally worth it. You get a full 360-degree view of the surrounding area.
There are a lot of interesting things inside too, like old cannons, hidden passages, and a deep moat that used to have crocodiles (according to the locals). The design is really smart – it was made to confuse and trap enemies. That’s probably why it was considered nearly impossible to capture.
Some parts are a bit ruined and could use better maintenance, but overall it’s still in pretty good shape. The vibe is very raw and authentic – not overly commercialized, which I liked.
If you’re into history, photography, or just love exploring old forts, Daulatabad is a must-visit. Just be ready for a bit of a workout!"
Kamlesh Surana
"Amazing historical place with stunning views .Visiting Daulatabad Fort was an unforgettable experience! The fort is full of history, strong architecture, and beautiful surroundings. Climbing to the top was a bit tiring , but the view from above was totally worth it I recently visited Daulatabad Fort near Aurangabad, and honestly, it’s one of the most impressive forts I’ve seen. The place is full of history, and the architecture is just mind-blowing. You can literally feel how powerful and strategic it must’ve been back in the day.
The fort is built on a hill, so there’s quite a bit of climbing involved – lots of steps – so wear good shoes and carry water. But the view from the top is totally worth it. You get a full 360-degree view of the surrounding area."
Subhash S Poduval
"Daulatabad Fort near Aurangabad is an incredible blend of history, architecture, and adventure. Perched on a hill, it features massive stone walls, secret tunnels, and a brilliant defense layout. One highlight is the bridge over the moat-like lake, once said to have housed crocodiles — a smart and fearsome part of the fort’s defense system.
The trek to the top is moderately challenging but offers breathtaking views of the Deccan landscape. Unfortunately, plastic bottles and litter around the bridge area spoil the beauty of this heritage site. Visitors should help keep it clean.
Overall: A majestic fort with fascinating history, stunning views, and a reminder of the need for better preservation."
Pooja Chauhan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Daulatabad Fort, also known as Devagiri Fort, is located about 15 km northwest of Aurangabad city in Maharashtra. You can easily reach it by hiring a taxi or taking a local bus from Aurangabad. Auto-rickshaws are also a common option. The journey typically takes around 30-45 minutes.
Yes, local buses frequently run from Aurangabad to Daulatabad village, which is near the fort. This is a budget-friendly option for travelers.
For convenience and flexibility, hiring a taxi or using ride-sharing apps from Aurangabad is recommended. This allows you to control your schedule and stop at other nearby attractions if desired.
Yes, there are parking facilities available near the entrance of the fort for visitors arriving by private vehicles.
Daulatabad Fort is closest to Aurangabad. From cities like Mumbai or Pune, you would first need to reach Aurangabad, which can take 6-8 hours by road or train, and then proceed to the fort.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Daulatabad Fort is generally open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. It's advisable to check the latest timings before your visit, especially during public holidays.
There is an entry fee for Daulatabad Fort. Indian citizens typically pay a nominal fee, while foreign nationals have a slightly higher charge. Keep some cash handy for tickets.
Currently, online ticket booking for Daulatabad Fort might not be widely available. It's best to purchase tickets at the fort's ticket counter upon arrival.
While official guided tours might not always be available, local guides can often be hired at the entrance. They can provide valuable historical insights.
Absolutely! Daulatabad Fort is an excellent destination for a day trip from Aurangabad. You can easily spend 3-4 hours exploring its vast expanse.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Start by heading directly to the summit to save energy, then explore the various levels and attractions on your way down. Wear comfortable shoes and carry water.
The climb involves many steps and can be moderately challenging, especially in the heat. It's a good workout, but the views are worth the effort.
Don't miss the dark passage (Andheri), the ancient cannons, the moat, and the panoramic views from the summit. The historical architecture is a highlight.
Limited vendors might be present, but it's highly recommended to carry your own water and snacks.
The Andheri, or dark passage, was a clever defense mechanism designed to confuse and trap invading armies with its winding, unlit tunnels.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views from the summit, the intricate architecture of the fort walls, the ancient cannons, and the dramatic entrance with its moat offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Daulatabad Fort. However, always be respectful of the historical site and other visitors.
Early morning or late afternoon, especially during the golden hour, provides beautiful lighting for photography. The monsoon season also offers a lush, green backdrop.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical monuments to preserve their integrity and for security reasons. It's best to assume it's not permitted unless officially stated otherwise.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and architecture. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions inside the passages.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Photographers
+1 Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture stunning shots, from the panoramic vistas at the summit to the intricate details of the fort's construction and the dramatic entrance. The interplay of light and shadow within the dark passages also presents unique photographic challenges and rewards. 👟 Adventure Seekers & Trekkers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Fortress of Strategic Brilliance
+1 The fort's design incorporates multiple concentric walls, bastions, and intricate water management systems, showcasing advanced engineering for its time. The fort's most famous defensive feature is the 'Andheri' or dark passage. This winding, unlit tunnel was designed to disorient and trap invaders, with potential pitfalls and ambush points.
The approach to the fort itself is a marvel, involving steep climbs, narrow pathways, and a deep moat that once protected its perimeter. Muhammad bin Tughlaq famously shifted his capital from Delhi to Daulatabad in the 14th century, renaming it Daulatabad, meaning 'Abode of Fortune.' Although this move was short-lived, it cemented the fort's historical significance.
Exploring Daulatabad Fort offers a tangible connection to India's past, revealing the strategic prowess and architectural ingenuity of its builders. Navigating the Fort: Tips from Travelers
For the iconic dark passage, a flashlight or your phone's light is indispensable.
While the fort is a historical marvel, some reviews mention that certain parts could benefit from better maintenance.
Daulatabad Fort Through the Seasons
However, the clear skies offer unobstructed views and excellent photographic conditions. The monsoon season transforms the landscape around the fort into a lush, green paradise.
The fort itself looks majestic surrounded by verdant hills, offering a dramatic and picturesque setting. While the rain might add a layer of challenge to the climb, the visual spectacle is unparalleled. Post-monsoon and winter months generally offer pleasant weather, making it ideal for exploring the fort without the extreme heat or heavy rains. The cooler temperatures are conducive to a more comfortable and enjoyable trek to the summit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit