Daulatabad, literally meaning 'the city of fortunes', is situated about 15 km from
Aurangabad, more than 600 ft above the
Deccan Plateau. Formerly known as Devagiri (meaning 'hill of the gods'), it was the 12th century fortress capital of Hindu kings of Deccan. The pyramid-shaped fortress in Devagiri was originally constructed by Bhillama, a general of Yadav dynasty.
Muhammad bin Tughlaq, sultan of Delhi, named this place Daulatabad. The fort is surrounded by thick walls, spiked gates, steep graveled slide ways and a deep moat. A 5 km gigantic wall, artificial scarping, dungeons and a complicated defense system are unique features of Daulatabad.
Situated opposite the fortress is a unique structure. It was originally a temple which was converted into a mosque by the Sultan of Delhi in 1318. Post independence, the mosque was converted into Bharatmata (Mother India) Temple. A large stone-lined elephant tank, which was once a central component in the fort’s extensive water supply system, is located nearby. The fort has a 30 feet tall victory tower named
Chand Minar. It was constructed by Ala-ud-din Bhamani in 1435 to commemorate his conquest of this fort. Nearby attractions are Chinese Palace, better known as
Chini Mahal, and Baradi, the residence of Yadavi queen.
Aurangabad Airport is located 10 kms east of the town, and is directly air-linked to
Mumbai,
Delhi,
Jaipur and
Udaipur. The best time to visit is between July and December.
Aurangabad Railway Station is the nearest railway station.
