TOUR NO.2  (18-09-2008)
(Transportation by AC Bus)

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF PLACES OF VISIT:
Golconda fort: Golconda is one of the famous forts of India.  Shepherds Hill, Golconda was originally a mud fort, which passed to the Brahmani dynasty and later to the Qutub Shahis, who held it from 1518 to 1687 AD.  The first three Qutub Shahi kings rebuilt Golconda, over a span of 62 years.  The fort is famous for its acoustics, palaces, ingenious water supply system and the famous Fateh Rahben gun, one of the cannons used in the last siege of Golconda by Aurangazeb, to whom the fort ultimately fell.

Qutubshahi Tombs:  The tombs of the legendary Qutub Shahi kings lie about a kilometer away from Banjara Darwaza of Golconda Fort.  Planned and built by the Qutub Shahis themselves, these tombs are said to be the oldest historical monuments in Hyderabad.  They form a large group and stand on a raised platform.  The tombs are built in Persian, Pathan and Hindu architectural styles using gray granite with stucco ornamentation, the only one of its kind in the world where an entire dynasty has been buried at one place.

Shilparamam: A charming village of arts and crafts, it is the most sought after destination to explore the world of Indian Crafts and enjoy the thrill of shopping and relaxing amidst sylvan nature in an ethnic ambience.  Located in Madhapur, this 40-acre village brims over with a wealth of arts and crafts from all corners of the country.  There are scenic venues with spectacular views in this unique crafts village besides an amazing rural Museum that reflects typical village life with stunning life-like statues in an authentic rural setting.