The Penukonda Fort is a historical fort located in Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh, India. It was built during the Vijayanagara Empire and served as a strategic military outpost. The fort is situated on a hill overlooking the town of Penukonda, providing a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
The Penukonda Fort is open to visitors from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on all days of the week.
The entry fee for the Penukonda Fort is INR 20 for Indian nationals and INR 300 for foreign tourists.
It takes about 1-2 hours to explore the entire fort. Visitors are not allowed to carry food items, plastic bags, and alcohol inside the fort premises.
The Penukonda Fort showcases a mix of architectural styles including Vijayanagara, Islamic, and Persian influences. The fort has well-preserved structures like gateways, palaces, temples, and granaries.
The best time to visit the Penukonda Fort is during the winter months from October to February when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the historical site.
The Penukonda Fort is easily accessible by road. Visitors can reach the fort by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from Anantapur, which is the nearest major city located around 70 kilometers away.
The Penukonda Fort was originally built in the 17th century by the Vijayanagara Empire. It later came under the control of the Bahmani Sultanate and the Adil Shahi dynasty before being captured by the Mughals. The fort played a significant role in the military history of the region.
Inside the Penukonda Fort, visitors can explore the Ranganatha Swamy Temple, the Gagan Mahal, the Granary, and the various gateways and watchtowers that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
It is advisable to wear comfortable footwear as the fort premises involve a fair amount of walking. Visitors should also carry sufficient water and sunscreen, especially during the hot summer months.
Some of the hotels near the Penukonda Fort where visitors can stay include Hotel Rajasree, Hotel Mythri, and Hotel Annapurna Residency.
While visiting the Penukonda Fort, tourists can also explore nearby attractions like the Bugga Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple, the Nallamada Dam, and the Rama Temple at Kalyandurg.