Daulatabad, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
Devgiri Killa – Complete Visitor Guide
Devgiri killa is another name for Daulatabad Fort, the great hill fortress near Aurangabad built by the Yadavas and renamed in the 14th century.
Visitor details
Timings, Entry Fee and Closing Day
- Chand Minar and the other structures inside the fort are covered by the same entry ticket.
Source: tourism listing, last updated 9 March 2026. Fees and timings can change, so check at the gate.
Overview
Devgiri Killa – Overview
Devgiri Killa is how many travellers search for the fort at Daulatabad, also known as Devgiri (Devagiri) or Deogiri. It sits on a conical hill about 15–20 km from Aurangabad, on the road to Ellora.
The fort has a layered defence system, a long rock-cut gallery and a long history, from the Yadavas to the Tughlaqs, Bahmanis, Ahmadnagar sultans, Mughals and Marathas. This page explains the Devgiri name and how to explore the fort.
Background
History of Devgiri Killa
Around 1187, the Yadava king Bhillama V founded the city and fort as Devagiri. Alauddin Khalji raided it in 1296 and annexed it in 1308. In 1327, Muhammad bin Tughlaq renamed it Daulatabad and moved his capital here; the move failed and the capital returned to Delhi around 1334. The Bahmani and Ahmadnagar sultanates built much of the present fortification. The Mughals captured the fort in the early 1630s, and the Marathas took it in 1760.
Defences
Why the Fort Was Hard to Capture
The fort stands on a conical hill about 200 m high. The builders cut the lower slopes to leave near-vertical sides about 50 m tall and dug a deep moat at the base. The only route to the summit is a narrow bridge and a long rock-cut gallery. Midway, steep stairs are covered by a grating meant to hold a fire against attackers. The fort has three zones: Balakot (the inner hilltop fort), Kataka (the middle fort) and Ambarkot (the outer wall).
Highlights
What to See Inside the Fort
- Chand Minar: a tall tower in the Mahakot area, said to resemble the Qutb Minar; access can be restricted
- Chini Mahal: a palace known for its blue-and-white tile facade; now in ruins
- Jami Mosque: in the Kataka area, dated to 1318
- Summit and cannons: old cannons remain along the slope and on top
The fort is open 6:00 am – 6:00 pm on all seven days, and one ticket covers the structures inside.
Plan it
Tips for Climbing the Fort
The climb involves a long gallery, steps and uneven ground. Allow two to three hours, wear sturdy footwear and carry water. Some people carry a torch for the dark section; check current access rules. The fort is on the Aurangabad–Ellora road, so it is easy to combine with Ellora and Khuldabad.
Travel smart
Plan Your Visit: Practical Tips
The fort is open every day, 6:00 am – 6:00 pm. Timings, fees and access rules can change, so check the latest listing before you travel.
The climb is easier before the heat.
Surfaces are uneven.
Little shade on the hill.
The fort closes at 6:00 pm, so plan to start the climb well before that.
There are steep drops.
Book a cab
Reach Daulatabad Fort (Devgiri) With Siya Travels
Siya Travels can arrange a cab with a driver for Daulatabad Fort from Aurangabad and nearby cities, as a one-way transfer or a full-day trip.
Tell us your date, pickup point and group size. We reply with a quotation and suggest a sensible route, so you can combine nearby sights without rushing.
Share the pickup point, drop point, travel date, pickup time and the number of passengers using the form on this page, on WhatsApp or by phone on +91 98600 80525.
Pick a sedan, Ertiga, Innova Crysta, Tempo Traveller or Urbania based on group size and luggage. Tell us if you have senior citizens or small children travelling.
We reply with a quotation for Aurangabad to Daulatabad Fort (Devgiri). Ask clearly whether tolls, parking and driver allowance are included, so there are no surprises.
Once you confirm, we share the vehicle and driver details before pickup. Keep the driver’s number handy for the pickup point.
Summary
Devgiri Killa: Quick Summary
Devgiri killa is another name for Daulatabad Fort, the great hill fortress near Aurangabad built by the Yadavas and renamed in the 14th century.
- Names: Daulatabad / Devgiri
- Distance: about 15–20 km from Aurangabad
- Hill height: about 200 m
- Time needed: 2–3 hours
Planning more than this one trip? See our Aurangabad Taxi Service, Airport Taxi Aurangabad, 3 Jyotirlinga Tour Package From Aurangabad and Ajanta and Ellora Caves From Aurangabad for related routes, vehicles and services.
Related guides
More From Siya Travels
FAQ
Devgiri Killa – Frequently Asked Questions
What is devgiri killa?
Devgiri Killa is a common name for Daulatabad Fort, also called Devgiri, near Aurangabad.
Who built the fort?
The Yadava king Bhillama V is credited with founding Devagiri around 1187. Later rulers expanded it.
Why was it renamed Daulatabad?
Muhammad bin Tughlaq renamed it in 1327 when he moved his capital here.
How far is it from Aurangabad?
About 15–20 km.
How long does a visit take?
About two to three hours.
What are the Devgiri Fort timings and closing day?
The fort is open from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm, and the listing shows it open all seven days of the week.
What is the Devgiri Fort ticket price?
The ticket is ₹25 for Indian visitors and ₹300 for foreign visitors. One ticket also covers Chand Minar and the other structures inside the fort. Fees can change, so check at the counter.
Is Daulatabad Fort (Devgiri) suitable for children and senior citizens?
Most visitors manage it, but walking, steps, heat and crowds differ by place and season. Choose a comfortable time of day, carry water, and tell your driver if anyone needs extra rest stops.
Can Siya Travels arrange a cab for Daulatabad Fort (Devgiri)?
Yes. Send your date, pickup point and number of passengers using the form on this page, on WhatsApp or by phone on +91 98600 80525. We reply with a quotation.
Plan Your Trip With Siya Travels
Call +91 98600 80525 or send your trip details on WhatsApp. We reply with a quotation.