Kakatiya Hill Fort in Jayashankar Bhupalpally, Telangana
The undated six-line inscription available on the fort wall tells that the fort was constructed by Muchanayanimgaru, also known as Muppa Nayakudu, a lieutenant of Prola Raja-I. Since Prataparudra, the last king of Kakatiya dynasty, who faced the might of Delhi Sultanate, used the fort frequently, it acquired the name of Pratapgiri Fort.
The ramparts of Pratapgiri hill fort, nestled in the impenetrable jungle 240 kilometres northeast of Hyderabad, are a fine example of defensive fortification, aimed at foiling enemy invasions, especially from northern armies approaching the Kakatiya capital, Warangal.
Afar and tough to reach even today, the fort, believed to have been built by Kakatiya king Prola Raju-I, is located on a hillock locally known as Pedda Gutta. It served as the first line of defence for the kingdom, offering a strategic vantage point for surveillance of invaders crossing the River Godavari, 3 kilometres away. The fort has a tunnel, reportedly used as an escape route, which locals believe may also have hidden treasures during Delhi Sultanate invasions.
The fortification strategies of the Kakatiyas, who cleverly used forests, hillocks, and river banks, highlight their sophisticated approach to warfare. The nearby Gonthemmagutta hillock, 3 kilometres from Pratapgiri, has a 1.5-kilometre fortification wall, perfect for trekking and adventure activities.
Pratapgiri Fort is located about 35 km from the district headquarters, Jayashankar Bhupalpally town, in the dense forests of Kataram and Mahadevpur near Pratapgiri and Rapallekota villages. Visitors must trek at least 5 km through dense forest from Pratapgiri village to reach the hillock. The fort is locally referred to as Vana Durgam (Forest Fort) and Giri Durgam (Hill Fort).
Nearby Attractions
- Gonthemmagutta Hill: 3 km from Pratapgiri, offers trekking opportunities and panoramic forest views.
- Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary: Around 40 km away, home to tigers, panthers, and diverse flora and fauna.
- Jampanna Vagu: 50 km from the fort, scenic river and waterfall area ideal for nature walks.
- Kota Gullu Temples: 45 km away in Ghanpur, known for Kakatiya architecture.
- Bogatha Waterfalls: 60 km away, a must-visit for picnic and adventure lovers.
Suggested Itinerary
Day Trip: Start early from Jayashankar Bhupalpally, reach Pratapgiri village, trek to the fort (5 km), explore fort ruins and surrounding forest, return by evening. Include nearby Eturnagaram Sanctuary if time permits.
Two-Day Trip: Day 1 – Trek Pratapgiri Fort, explore Gonthemmagutta; Day 2 – Visit Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary, Jampanna Vagu, and Bogatha Waterfalls for nature and adventure.
Travel Guide
- By Road: From Jayashankar Bhupalpally, drive to Pratapgiri village (35 km) and start trek. Roads may be rough, suitable for SUVs or two-wheelers.
- By Rail: Nearest major station is Warangal (50 km), then hire taxi or local transport.
- By Air: Nearest airport is Hyderabad (240 km), followed by road travel to the fort.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March, when the forest is pleasant and trekking is comfortable.
- What to Carry: Water, food, trekking shoes, first-aid, and insect repellents. No shops are available near the fort.
- Guides: Local guides can help navigate the dense forest and provide historical insights.
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