Naldurg fort is visible from the highway between Solapur and Hyderabad. It was not on our route map, but we decided to go anyway.
About an hour from Solapur and after a small detour, the parking lot and entry way to the fort lies along side a beautiful fort wall with bastions and ramparts intact . Tiny openings are visible close to the ramparts which probably served as lookouts.
It is believed that the fort was built by Nalaraja ( hence the name) and parts of it were completed by Adilshahi kings and was built over 300 and more years.
The entrance is through a narrow pathway and after a couple of zigzags, we entered into a large open space. Most of the smaller areas within the fort are accessible through is space. There is a jail and a mosque like structure. There is a structure comprising of a broad flight of steps culminating in a bastion, which, I presume served as a watch tower, as it overlooks the valley. There is a large lake formed by a dam which is accessible from various places within the fort complex, where boating happens.
The fort is well known for Pani Mahal which is named after a cascade formed by the dam. Sadly, we did not witness this, as there was insufficient water.
There is a breach in the fort wall and alongside the opening, the fort walls have collapsed. The width of the fort walls is so evident at this breach.
I need to mention that photography within the fort with a camera is not permitted. We had to procure special permissions to do so. Mobile camera photos are absolutely okay!
All in all, the detour was really worth it!
For the album, please click the link provided. https://photos.app.goo.gl/bmjq9SryRNtnPEnp9
Wide Angles 