Golconda Fort, an architectural marvel known for its imposing granite walls and legendary acoustic system, saw an increase in visitors from 15.27 lakh in 2022-23 to 16.08 lakh in 2023-24, marking a 5.3% rise.

metro india news  I hyderabad

Hyderabad's historic landmarks, Golconda Fort and Charminar, have witnessed a remarkable rise in domestic tourist footfall in the financial year 2023-24, according to the latest data from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

Golconda Fort, an architectural marvel known for its imposing granite walls and legendary acoustic system, saw an increase in visitors from 15.27 lakh in 2022-23 to 16.08 lakh in 2023-24, marking a 5.3% rise. This fortress, once the capital of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, is renowned for its ingenious water supply system, secret tunnels, and the fabled treasure vaults where the legendary Koh-i-Noor diamond is believed to have once been stored.

Meanwhile, Charminar, the heart of Hyderabad’s Old City, experienced a spectacular 38.8% surge, with footfall soaring from 9.29 lakh to 12.90 lakh. Standing tall since 1591, this four-pillared marvel was built by Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah to commemorate the end of a deadly plague. Today, it remains a symbol of Hyderabad’s rich Indo-Islamic heritage, bustling with bazaars and vibrant street food stalls.

On a national level, Agra’s Taj Mahal topped the list of ASI-protected monuments with the highest domestic visitor count, welcoming a staggering 60.99 lakh tourists in 2023-24. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, this 17th-century white marble masterpiece continues to mesmerize visitors with its breathtaking beauty, intricate carvings, and the poignant love story behind its creation.

Following the Taj Mahal, the Sun Temple in Konark, Qutub Minar in Delhi, and Red Fort in Delhi secured the second, third, and fourth positions, respectively. Also making it to the top 10 were the Ellora Caves in Aurangabad, Golconda Fort in Hyderabad, Agra Fort in Agra, the Tomb of RabiaDurani (Bibi Ka Maqbara) in Aurangabad, Charminar in Hyderabad, and Shaniwarwada in Pune.