Elagandula Khilla Also known as the Elgandal Fort speaks of the glorious past of the many rulers and dynasties that had come to power over the centuries. It treasures the secrets of the rise and fall of many rulers. It has survived the various battles fought here and was a guardian of kingship. The fort is now in a crumbling state. But it still remains a subject for study by the historians and the relic hunters. It is also frequented by tourists and has established itself as one of the most popular fortresses in the state. The fort had been built by Zafar-ud-Daulah in the 18th century. The then administrator of the city of Elgandal had this fort built in 1754 as a protection. However, it was later fought over by many other dynasties. The fort has witnesses and was also damaged by the battle between the Kakatiyas, Bahmanis, Yadavas, Qutub Shahis, Asaf Jahis and Mughals. Aurangzeb had added functions to the fort. The fort has historical importance as it was ruled by five major dynasties Kakatiyas, Bahmanis, Qutub Shahis, Mughal and Nizams.
The fort is built on a hill and can be accessed from only one entrance. This single gate had been beautiful and justified the only entrance to the fort. The gate remains a charming point among tourists to this day. The fort is located on the banks of the Manair River. The city has often changed its name. It was previously known as Bahudhanyapuram, Tellakandula and Veligandula and eventually turned into Elgandal. The fort has the tombs and dargahs of many Muslim saints. There are dargahs of Syed Shah Munawar Quadri Saheb, Doola Shah Saheb, Syed Maroof Saheb, Shah Talib Bismilla Saheb and Vali Hyder Sahib that still stand in their greatness to this day. These dargahs are attracting tourists and followers even today. The visitors to the dargah include followers of all religions. The Alamgir Mosque in the fortress grounds is a unique mosque. The mosque was built by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. There are three minarets in the mosque against the four that are present in all other mosques. Furthermore, these also move forward and backward when shaken. He had also further expanded the area, including the existing Bindrakas pond within the boundaries of the fort.
