
Daulatabad Fort Devagiri
A majestic 13th-century hill fort renowned for its strategic defense, intricate architecture, and breathtaking panoramic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Daulatabad Fort Devagiri
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic 13th-century hill fort renowned for its strategic defense, intricate architecture, and breathtaking panoramic views.
"An unforgettable experience with history, strong architecture, and beautiful surroundings. "

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Lots of steps and uneven terrain. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring!
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during the climb. There are limited vendors inside.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Dark Passage (Andheri)
Entrance
Navigate a pitch-dark, winding tunnel designed to trap invaders. A truly unique and thrilling experience!

Panoramic Summit Views
Top of the fort
Ascend to the highest point for breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding Deccan landscape.

Ancient Cannons
Various points
See impressive, well-preserved cannons that once defended this mighty fortress.

The Moat and Bridge
Lower levels
Marvel at the strategic moat, once rumored to house crocodiles, and the impressive bridge.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Climb
Embrace the Darkness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Lots of steps and uneven terrain. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring!
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during the climb. There are limited vendors inside.
🔦 Bring a Flashlight
Essential for navigating the dark, winding passages. Your phone light works too!
📸 Go to Top First
Save energy by reaching the summit first, then explore on the way down.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Lots of steps and uneven terrain. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring!
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during the climb. There are limited vendors inside.
🔦 Bring a Flashlight
Essential for navigating the dark, winding passages. Your phone light works too!
📸 Go to Top First
Save energy by reaching the summit first, then explore on the way down.
🍃 Respect the Heritage
Avoid littering to help preserve this magnificent historical site.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Daulatabad Fort for its immense historical significance, impressive architecture, and strategic brilliance. The panoramic views from the summit are a major highlight, making the challenging climb worthwhile. While some areas show signs of wear, the fort's raw authenticity and less commercialized atmosphere are appreciated.
"Daulatabad Fort is also known as Devgiri Fort. It's located in Aurangabad and it is one of the major tourist attractions here. It's known popularly to he the unconquered fort. The fort has huge historical relevance and contributes to archeological studies. If you're looking for fun and adventure then this place is for you, you would not want to miss visiting this fort. The Daulatabad Fort is well maintained. While visiting this fort I heard that there are 1100 steps to climb, I'm convinced that there were more steps than that. It is a good place if you're into exploring and like a little trekking with your family, friends or even solo. The fort had 2-3 completely dark passages inside, which made it feel more adventurous climbing to the top of the fort. The view from certain points as you're climbing the fort is beautiful, you can experience the beautiful view from top as you're climbing the fort. Also, once you reach the top, it's really calm and peaceful, the view is amazing and it feels worth the climb. It's a great place for amazing photos, you can get some really great clicks. One of the best places I've visited while being in Aurangabad."
Noel Nadar
"Daulatabad Fort, originally Devagiri Fort, is a historic fortified citadel located in Daulatabad village near Aurangabad city in Maharashtra state, India.
It is a must visit for the people who are interested in history, fort architecture, artillery, art n beautiful panoramic scenes from the top. Its a quite big n vast. Keep one full day for visiting all the monuments n if u want to reach on the top of the fort.
Originally built by Yadava King Bhillama V in 12th century to protect the city Devagiri, means 'Hill of the Gods', it passed through the hands of several dynasties and further developed. The fort is so strategically located that every conquerer of it was a proud owner. Sultan Muhammad bin Tughlaq changed the name of it as Daulatabad, means ‘Adobe of Wealth', in 1328 CE when he moved his capital from Delhi to here.
This magnificent fort is standing on a top of a 200m high conical hill. It was one of the most powerful forts during the medieval period. The fort was defended by moat (khandak) and glacis (slopes) running around the hill at its foot besides the most complex and intricate defence system. The fortifications comprise of three encircling walls with bastions.
Series of trick defence and secret escapes routes are the famous features of this fort. Jama Masjid, Bharatmata Mandir, Chand Minar, Elephant Tank and Chini Mahal (Chinese Palace) are the important monuments inside the fort."
Shakeel Ahmed
"Daulatabad Fort, also called Devgiri Fort, is one of Aurangabad’s most fascinating attractions. Known for its reputation as the “unconquered fort,” it holds immense historical importance and continues to play a significant role in archaeological studies. If you enjoy a mix of adventure, exploration, and history, this fort is definitely a must-visit.
Although I had heard that the climb involves around 1,100 steps, it genuinely felt like there were far more! The ascent itself is part of the fun, especially for those who love a light trek—whether you're with family, friends, or travelling solo. Along the way, the fort features a few completely dark passages that add to the thrill and make the journey even more exciting.
As you climb upward, the views from different points are absolutely breathtaking. Reaching the top is incredibly rewarding—the atmosphere is calm, the surroundings feel peaceful, and the panoramic scenery is stunning. The entire place is also perfect for photography, offering countless opportunities for memorable pictures. Overall, visiting Daulatabad Fort has been one of my most enjoyable experiences in Aurangabad."
Divya Premsankar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Daulatabad Fort, also known as Devagiri Fort, is located about 15 km northwest of Aurangabad city in Maharashtra. You can easily reach it by hiring a taxi or taking a local bus from Aurangabad. Auto-rickshaws are also a common option. The journey typically takes around 30-45 minutes.
Yes, local buses frequently run from Aurangabad to Daulatabad village, which is near the fort. This is a budget-friendly option for travelers.
For convenience and flexibility, hiring a taxi or using ride-sharing apps from Aurangabad is recommended. This allows you to control your schedule and stop at other nearby attractions if desired.
Yes, there are parking facilities available near the entrance of the fort for visitors arriving by private vehicles.
Daulatabad Fort is closest to Aurangabad. From cities like Mumbai or Pune, you would first need to reach Aurangabad, which can take 6-8 hours by road or train, and then proceed to the fort.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Daulatabad Fort is generally open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. It's advisable to check the latest timings before your visit, especially during public holidays.
There is an entry fee for Daulatabad Fort. Indian citizens typically pay a nominal fee, while foreign nationals have a slightly higher charge. Keep some cash handy for tickets.
Currently, online ticket booking for Daulatabad Fort might not be widely available. It's best to purchase tickets at the fort's ticket counter upon arrival.
While official guided tours might not always be available, local guides can often be hired at the entrance. They can provide valuable historical insights.
Absolutely! Daulatabad Fort is an excellent destination for a day trip from Aurangabad. You can easily spend 3-4 hours exploring its vast expanse.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Start by heading directly to the summit to save energy, then explore the various levels and attractions on your way down. Wear comfortable shoes and carry water.
The climb involves many steps and can be moderately challenging, especially in the heat. It's a good workout, but the views are worth the effort.
Don't miss the dark passage (Andheri), the ancient cannons, the moat, and the panoramic views from the summit. The historical architecture is a highlight.
Limited vendors might be present, but it's highly recommended to carry your own water and snacks.
The Andheri, or dark passage, was a clever defense mechanism designed to confuse and trap invading armies with its winding, unlit tunnels.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views from the summit, the intricate architecture of the fort walls, the ancient cannons, and the dramatic entrance with its moat offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Daulatabad Fort. However, always be respectful of the historical site and other visitors.
Early morning or late afternoon, especially during the golden hour, provides beautiful lighting for photography. The monsoon season also offers a lush, green backdrop.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical monuments to preserve their integrity and for security reasons. It's best to assume it's not permitted unless officially stated otherwise.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and architecture. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions inside the passages.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Photographers
👟 Adventure Seekers & Trekkers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Fortress of Strategic Brilliance
The fort's most famous defensive feature is the 'Andheri' or dark passage. This winding, unlit tunnel was designed to disorient and trap invaders, with potential pitfalls and ambush points. The approach to the fort itself is a marvel, involving steep climbs, narrow pathways, and a deep moat that once protected its perimeter. This ingenious design contributed to its reputation as an unconquerable fortress.
Muhammad bin Tughlaq famously shifted his capital from Delhi to Daulatabad in the 14th century, renaming it Daulatabad, meaning 'Abode of Fortune.' Although this move was short-lived, it cemented the fort's historical significance. Exploring Daulatabad Fort offers a tangible connection to India's past, revealing the strategic prowess and architectural ingenuity of its builders.
Navigating the Fort: Tips from Travelers
For the iconic dark passage, a flashlight or your phone's light is indispensable. This section is a highlight for many, offering a thrilling glimpse into the fort's defensive strategies. A common tip from seasoned visitors is to head directly to the summit first and then explore the various levels and attractions on the way down. This approach helps conserve energy for the descent.
While the fort is a historical marvel, some reviews mention that certain parts could benefit from better maintenance. However, the overall experience is described as authentic and less commercialized, which many appreciate. The breathtaking views from the top are consistently praised as being well worth the effort.
Daulatabad Fort Through the Seasons
The monsoon season transforms the landscape around the fort into a lush, green paradise. The fort itself looks majestic surrounded by verdant hills, offering a dramatic and picturesque setting. While the rain might add a layer of challenge to the climb, the visual spectacle is unparalleled.
Post-monsoon and winter months generally offer pleasant weather, making it ideal for exploring the fort without the extreme heat or heavy rains. The cooler temperatures are conducive to a more comfortable and enjoyable trek to the summit.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit