Kondaveedu Fort: A trekker’s paradise

Kondaveedu Fort, located 25 kilometres from Guntur, is a noted historical tourist attraction and is visited by hundreds throughout the year. It is also a trekker’s paradise, as the hills are ideal for trekking. The fort reminds everyone of Andhra kings, including the Reddy dynasty and the Gajapathis, who had ruled from the impregnable fort. The fort and its architecture are a feast for art and culture lovers.

Kondaveedu Fort was built by Anapotha Reddy in 1250 AD and later developed by Ana Venkata Reddy. Both of them were prominent rulers of the Reddy dynasty and were known to be benevolent patrons of art and culture. Later the fort, considered as impregnable with 24 bastions and spread across 30 hillocks, was ruled by Gajapathis.

Located on a hilltop, this historical fort has around 21 stupas. There are also many temples, residential structures, pillared halls and a magnificent entrance gateway. The panoramic view from the summit is awesome, inspiring and is ideal for trekking.

Famous historians like Amol Mujumdar and Roy Chaudhuri praised the fort in their writings. Recent archaeological excavations unearthed a 14th century inscription penned by Kavi Sarvabhauma Srinadha and an idol of Raja Rajeswari. Of late, the fort turned into a treasure trove for treasure hunters. The seizure of a massive golden "panchaloha" idol, weighing 5 kilograms last year gave credence to theories that similar treasures could be found deep in the earth. The presiding deity of this place is Trikoteswara Swamy.

The deity is situated on the hillock and is one of the noted pilgrim centres attracting thousands of visitors on Shivaratri. The Gopinath temple and Kathulabave at the foothill are other major attractions of Kondaveedu.

Kondaveedu fort is situated in Kondaveedu village in Guntur. It is easily accessible by road and rail from all parts of India. The nearest airport is at Vijayawada, which is 30 kilometres away from the fort.