Bellamkonda Fort

Bellamkonda Fort in Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh, is a historic hill fortress situated at about 1,569 feet above sea level, shaped roughly like an equilateral triangle. It was originally built by the Reddi kings of Kondavid during the 13th century and served as a stronghold.

Over time, the fort changed hands multiple times, coming under the control of Orissa kings in 1482, the Vijayanagar rulers, and later the Mughals in 1578, ending Hindu rule in the region. By the late 18th century, the British had stationed a few troops at the fort's base.

The structure consists of a single stone wall linking elevated parts of the hill with bastions at the southeast and northwest corners, though much of the wall is in ruins today. The interior is overgrown with vegetation, and some old stone buildings like magazines and storerooms remain. The fort's historical transitions reflect the complex power struggles in this region of Andhra Pradesh, showcasing cultural and military significance from medieval to colonial times. The fort offers insight into the area's rich past amidst a mostly natural landscape.