Malkhed is a place of historical importance situated around 40 km south-east of Gulbarga, on the left bank of Kagina river, a tributary of the Bhima River. Earlier known as Manyakheta, it is also believed to be the capital of Rashtrakuta kings. Malkhed today has the remains of a fort with four entrances and 52 bastions. And in the village, there is an ancient Mallinatha Basadi, which consists of a garbhagriha, a navaranga and a hazara. Some 59 manuscripts in Prakrit, Sanskrit and Kannada languages have been found in this Basadi. Two temples namely lshwara Temple and Hanumanta temple are also located here. In the fort, a Jumma Masjid and few dargahs are found here.
Attractions inside Malkheda fort
- Thick outer walls, 20 foot in height, built with limestone blocks (known as Shahabad stones)
- Main Entrance with remnants of wooden doors
- Narrow and curved staircase to access watchtowers
- Old Hanuman temple
- View of Kabini River from elevated points inside the Malkheda Fort.
- Kala Darga or Black Mosque
- Jain temple
- Ruins of a Palace, part of canons
Note: Hiring a local guide from Malkheda town is recommended while visiting Malkheda fort. Carry adequate water as the region is known for harsh temperatures in summer.
Nearby: Kalaburagi Fort (40 kms), Bidar fort (120 kms), Sannati (58 kms) can be visited along with Malkheda.
How to reach Malkheda: Malkheda is 555 kms from Bengaluru. Kalaburagi airport, 30 kms from Malkheda is the nearest airport, with 3 times a week flight from Bengaluru. Bidar is another airport 118 kms from Malkheda. Kalaburagi has a railway station and good bus connectivity from various parts of Karnataka. Taxi can be hired in Kulaburagi to reach Malkheda.
Stay: Kalaburagi town, 40 kms from Malkheda has budget and mid range hotels.