Khuldabad Fort: History, Heritage and City of Sufi Saints

Khuldabad, located in Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, is a unique amalgamation of history and spirituality. The Khuldabad Fort here is not just a fort but a living history filled with centuries-old stories and spiritual experiences. This is the place where the simple tomb of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb is located, and the place is also famous for the tombs of many Sufi saints.

 

🌍 Khuldabad: A Brief Introduction

Khuldabad is a hill town located about 22 kilometers from Aurangabad city. It was earlier called “Raushanbagh” as it became a center of spiritual light due to many Sufi saints in the 14th century. The area is also known as “The City of Sufi Saints” or “The Valley of Saints”.

 

🏯 History of Khuldabad Fort

The Khuldabad Fort was built in the 14th century by Malik Ambar, a prominent minister of the Ahmednagar Sultanate. Later, the fort came under the Mughals and became an important centre of their strategy in South India. Khuldabad gained special recognition when Aurangzeb chose it as his final resting place. After his death in 1707, he was buried here in a simple tomb as per his wish — without any royal pomp.

🕌 Major sites and entrances

1. Roshan Darwaza

This is the main gate of Khuldabad Fort, known for its grand architecture and security arrangements.

2. Kadi Darwaza

This is the second main entrance, which was once used for the movement of armies.

 

3. Aurangzeb’s Mazar

The most famous place here – this mazar is located under the open sky, and its simplicity reflects the lifestyle of Aurangzeb. British Governor Lord Curzon got the mazar repaired and built a boundary wall.

 

4. Dargahs of Sufi saints

 

📿 Religious and Spiritual Importance

Khuldabad is not only a historical place but also a spiritual center. Every year a large number of devotees come here to offer chaadar on the tombs of Sufi saints. The peace and spirituality of this place touches every visitor deep inside.

🚗 How to reach Khuldabad

By Road: Khuldabad can be easily reached from Aurangabad by taxi, bus or private vehicle.

 Rail: The nearest railway station is Aurangabad, which is connected to major cities of India.

Air: Khuldabad is about 30 km from Aurangabad Airport.

🕐 When to visit and what to keep in mind

1. Best time to visit: October to March is the best season – cool and pleasant.
2. Things to keep in mind:
3. Maintain decorum at religious places.
4. Photography may be prohibited at some places.
5. If you take the help of a local guide, you can get more interesting information.

🏞 Nearby places to visit

• Ellora Caves – about 10 km away, UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Daulatabad Fort – Strong fort and strategic marvel.
• Bibi Ka Maqbara – The Taj Mahal of Aurangabad.
• Grihapada Mandir (Grishneshwar Jyotirling) – An ancient Shiva temple, near Ellora.

✅ Conclusion

• The Khuldabad Fort is not just a stone building, but it is a living example of history, religion, peace and Indian heritage. This place calls not only historians but also everyone who wants to understand the greatness hidden in simplicity.