Ancient Origins & Strategic Importance: The fort was constructed in the 9th century CE by the Rashtrakuta dynasty and was originally called Kailasa Durgam. Over time, the name transformed into "Kaulas" (or "Kowlas"). It is situated near Jukkal in Kamareddy district, at the tri‑junction of Telangana, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. The fort's three‑tiered defensive system, natural moats, and massive granite walls made it almost impregnable. It encloses an area of 6 square kilometres and features 52 bastions (or 57 burjs according to some counts), ancient wells, storage godowns, temples, and a dargah.
The fort rose to prominence again in 1857‑58 during the Indian Rebellion, when Raja Kunwar Deep Singh Gaur of the Gaur Rajput clan trained troops inside the fort. He was later captured and poisoned over three years. Today, the fort is severely neglected. Colonel A. K. Singh, the 10th‑generation scion of the Gaur Rajputs, is fighting a lone battle to save the crumbling structure. The fort is surrounded by dense jungle and water bodies, offering potential for eco‑tourism and trekking.
Architectural Features
Kaulas Fort is unique for its massive scale, triple‑layered defence, and the largest cannon in Telangana.
Defensive Design: The fort has a three‑tier fortification system – outer, middle, and inner walls – with 52 projecting bastions. Natural moats (water bodies) surround three sides. The main walls are built of large granite blocks and lime mortar. The fort's several gates (including the main gate with iron spikes) controlled access.
- Largest Cannon in Telangana: The 10‑ft long 'Jagdamba Bhawani' (also called Navgarji Tope) is the biggest cannon in the state, lying rusting on a bastion.
- 52 Bastions: The fort has exactly 52 bastions, many still standing. Prominent ones include Hussaini, Mallika, Mula, and Kadika Burz.
- Ancient Wells & Godowns: Several functional wells and large underground storage chambers for grain and weapons.
- Palace & Durbar Hall: Ruins of the Gaur Rajput palace and a public audience hall.
- Temples: Venkateswara temple, Ramalayam, Ganapati Mahadev, Yellamma, and the ancient Ashtabuji Mata temple.
- Dargah: A Muslim shrine indicating use under Bahmani and Qutb Shahi periods.
- Three Water Bodies: Natural tanks surrounding the fort – used as moats and water supply.
- Gates: Several imposing gateways, some still with original iron spike studs.
Historical Timeline & Rulers
The following are the key dynasties and figures associated with Kailash / Kaulas Fort.
Built the original fort as a regional stronghold, naming it Kailasa Durgam.
After the Rashtrakutas fell (973 CE), the fort came under the Kalyani Chalukyas, then the Kakatiyas of Warangal. The Kakatiyas heavily fortified it as a northern outpost. It fell to the Delhi Sultanate in 1323 CE.
The fort passed to the Bahmani Sultanate and later to the Qutb Shahis of Golconda. They added the dargah and several bastions.
The Nizam of Hyderabad appointed Raja Gopal Singh Gaur as the fort's chief in the 1720s. The Gaur Rajputs made it their stronghold and ruled the surrounding region as feudatories.
A Gaur Rajput ruler who trained troops inside the fort during the Indian Rebellion. He was later captured, imprisoned, and poisoned over three years. His resistance is a little‑known chapter of the 1857 uprising in Telangana.
The descendant of Raja Kunwar Deep Singh Gaur, Col A. K. Singh (retd.) is now fighting a lone battle to preserve the fort. He has appealed to the state and central governments to declare it a protected monument and develop it for tourism.
Current State & Plea for Conservation
Neglected and Forgotten: Despite its historical importance, Kaulas Fort has been entirely abandoned. The walls are collapsing, the bastions are crumbling, and the largest cannon in Telangana lies rusting, exposed to the elements. There is no signboard, no security, and no maintenance. According to Col A. K. Singh, "The fort is unique in many ways. It has the longest cannon in Telangana, 52 bastions, and is oval shaped. It has the potential to become a major tourist attraction only if the government is willing." Local residents believe the fort could be developed as an eco‑tourist spot, with its jungle area, trekking potential, flora, fauna, and water bodies.
Eco‑Tourism Potential
The fort's surrounding jungle and water bodies create a rich ecosystem. The area is home to peacocks, wild boar, deer, and numerous bird species. The rugged terrain offers excellent trekking opportunities, with panoramic views from the bastions. The ancient temples are already visited by local pilgrims. If basic facilities – a cleaned path, signages, a small museum, and a viewpoint – were added, Kaulas Fort could become a major weekend getaway from Hyderabad, just 200 km away.
Visitor Information & How to Reach
Getting There
By road: Kaulas Fort is about 200 km from Hyderabad. Take the Hyderabad–Bidar road (NH65) then towards Jukkal. The fort is near the village of Kaulas. Buses and taxis are available from Kamareddy (approx. 60 km) or Bodhan (approx. 30 km).
Rail: The nearest railway station is Kamareddy (60 km) or Nizamabad (70 km).
Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (approx. 210 km).
Best time to visit
October to March (cool, pleasant for walking around the fort and trekking).
Entry Fee
No entry fee. The site is unprotected and abandoned.
Nearby Attractions
- Bodhan Fort & Indranarayana Temple – About 30 km away.
- Nizamabad Fort – Approx. 70 km.
- Pocharam Dam & Wildlife Sanctuary – Around 100 km.
- Ali Sagar Reservoir – About 50 km.
Note: The fort is in ruins with no facilities. Carry your own water, snacks, and first‑aid. Wear sturdy shoes and long pants. Locals can guide you. Respect the temples and the dargah. Do not climb on crumbling bastions.
References & Further Reading
- The Hans India – A unique fort lies neglected (June 6, 2015)
- Wikipedia – Kowlas Fort (Kaulas Fort)
- Telangana State Tourism – Kamareddy District
- The News Minute – Kaulas Fort: A testament to Telangana's rich history