Elgandal Fort sits on a hill above the Manair River about 10 kilometres from Karimnagar along the Sircilla road. Originally called Veligandula, it was built during the Kakatiya dynasty in the 12th or 13th century and subsequently held by the Musunuri Nayaks, the Qutb Shahis, the Mughals, and finally the Nizams of Hyderabad, each leaving additions to the walls and internal structures.
The climb up the stepped path passes through a succession of gates. At the top, the broken ramparts give a good view over the Manair and the surrounding plains. There is a small mosque — an eidgah — and the remains of the three-minaret tower known as Teen Minar. The fort is well-maintained by the Archaeological Survey and is a peaceful spot on a weekday. Come in the early morning before the heat builds.