🏰 Step Back in Time: Nirmal Forts Exploration
📍 Overview
Nirmal is a city of forts surrounded by Satpura Hills, dense forests, rivers, and waterfalls. There are four forts within a 15 km radius of Nirmal, with three smaller forts near the town and a larger one 10 km away.
🛡️ Forts of Nirmal
The forts include Quilla Gutta/Bhairava Gutta/Nirmal Fort, Battisghad, Shyamgarh, and Soan Garh. Built around 1650 under Srinivasa Rao and the Asaf Jahis, they were military fortifications on trade routes. While mostly ruined inside, ramparts remain intact.
Nirmal Fort (Quilla Gutta / Bhairava Gutta)
Located in the middle of the city near the Devarakonda temple. Features include Atta-Kodalla bavi (Mother-in-law, Daughter-in-law well) and multiple entrances. Trails are overgrown with shrubs, offering adventurous exploration and panoramic sunset views.
Battis Garh Fort
One of the largest fortifications in Nirmal, located near lakes on the eastern side of the town. Features a bastion with a cannon and pillared hall. Mostly desolate with ruined internal structures.
Shyamgarh Fort
Built by the French under chieftain Srinivasa Rao. Located 2 km south of the city center on NH7, it has ruins and scenic views of a once-adjacent lake. Restoration work is ongoing under the archaeology department.
Soan Garh Fort
Near the Godavari River, visible from NH7 near Soan village. Small fort with boulders, ruins, and a tunnel suitable for birdwatching. No approach road; visitors must trek through fields.
🛣️ How to Reach the Forts
- Nirmal Fort: Inside Nirmal town. From Nirmal Bus Stand, head to Devarakonda Temple on western side. Follow paved road to fort entrance.
- Battis Garh Fort: ~5–6 km east of Nirmal via Vellapally Road. Take dirt track to base of the hill. Staircase leads to entrance. Overgrown paths require hiking shoes.
- Shyamgarh Fort: ~2 km south on NH7. Parking near NH7 and short walk to entrance.
- Soan Garh Fort: ~12 km south near Soan village on NH7. Park on highway near petrol pump; trek ~500 m through fields and thorny scrub to fort entrance.
🛍️ Shopping
Buy Nirmal paintings, toys, and handicrafts at:
- Shri Krishna Residency (Old NH7)
- Nirmal Toys and Arts Industrial Cooperative
- Nirmal Gift Articles: 09959298998
- Nirmal Paintings: 09959298998
- Nirmal Art Gallery: 9505903242, 9966774839
🏨 Where to Stay and Eat
- Mayuri Hotel – Bus Stand Road, 28 rooms, ₹890–2,100, Internet available, Tel: 08734-241919, Cell: 07386972444
- Sri Krishna Residency – ₹500–840, AC & non-AC rooms, Room service, Cell: 09705972103
- Hotel Tirumala – ₹525–971, AC & non-AC rooms, mainly male clientele, Tel: 242345-47, 243045
Geeta Bhawan serves excellent vegetarian meals; Mayuri Hotel restaurant has non-vegetarian options.
🏞️ Around Nirmal
Nirmal is a good base to explore surrounding waterfalls, Kalwa Narasimha Swamy Temple, Kaddam and Jannaram wildlife sanctuaries, Keslapur, and Jainath Temple. Carry enough cash as ATMs may not work reliably.
📝 Travel Tips
- Wear hiking shoes and thick clothing; forts have dense thorny overgrowth.
- Best visited in early morning or late afternoon for scenic views.
- Park on the highway and walk to Soan Garh.
📅 Nirmal Day-wise Itinerary
Day 1
- Morning: Arrive in Nirmal; check-in at hotel
- Afternoon: Visit Nirmal Fort for panoramic city views
- Evening: Explore local markets and buy Nirmal paintings & toys
- Tips: Wear hiking shoes for fort exploration; carry water
Day 2
- Morning: Visit Battis Garh Fort via Vellapally Road
- Afternoon: Lunch in Nirmal town; rest at hotel
- Evening: Short visit to Shyamgarh Fort, 2 km south on NH7
- Tips: Early morning or late afternoon is best for photography
Day 3
- Morning: Drive to Soan Garh Fort, ~12 km south near Soan village
- Afternoon: Trek through fields and thorny scrub to reach the fort
- Evening: Return to Nirmal; visit Geeta Bhawan for dinner
- Tips: Carry snacks and water; trekking shoes recommended
Day 4
- Morning: Optional trip to nearby waterfalls or Kalwa Narasimha Swamy Temple
- Afternoon: Lunch at local restaurant or hotel
- Evening: Departure from Nirmal
- Tips: Plan transport in advance;
❓ FAQ
Q: Are there guided tours available at Nirmal forts?
A: No formal guides are available; locals may provide directions and information.
Q: Is there accommodation near the forts?
A: Limited options; most visitors stay in Nirmal town.
Q: What is the best time to visit?
A: October to March offers pleasant weather for sightseeing and trekking.
Q: Can I buy Nirmal paintings and toys locally?
A: Yes, visit local shops and cooperatives around Shri Krishna Residency.
