Nalgonda, previously known as Nilagiri (blue hill) is the headquarters of the Nalgonda District. The place derived its name after its conquest by Ala-ud-Din Bahman Shah. It is located between two hills, 103 km from
Hyderabad, at the center of
Andhra Pradesh. Shah Latif's tomb is on the northern hill and a fort built by the Kakatiya kings is on the southern hill. Nalgonda has many forts, monuments and temples which proclaim its glorious past. The architectural excellence of temples such as Pachchala Someswaraswami, Chhaya Someswaraswami and Chennakesavaswami attracts many tourists.
The nearby attractions of Nalgonda are Panugal, Nagarjuna Sagar Dam, Nandikonda, Bhongir Fort, Kolanupuka, Pochampilli and Lake Mela. Panugal, the ancient capital of the
Kadamba dynasty, is 2 km from Nalgonda. It is famous for its brass vessel industry. The tallest masonry dam in the world, Nagarjuna Dam, irrigates the area. Lake Mela is famous for the Shri Shambulingeshwara temple built by Kakatiya Kings.
The most important religious festivals celebrated at Nalgonda are Mahashivratri during February-March, Ram navami during March-April and the Urs of Lateef Shah Vali Alla Khadri during August-September.
The nearest airport is at Hyderabad. The railway station at Nalgonda is connected to all important places in the state. Good roads link the town to Hyderabad,
Vijayawada and
Guntur. Autos, rickshaws and taxis are available for local transport.
