Warrangal

Warrangal is located at a distance of 157 kms from Hyderabad. It was once the capital of the Kakatiya rulers, a warrior dynasty and even today Warrangal preserves the ancient heritage in the form of temples, forts and other monuments. It is situated amidst green hills and forests, and houses some of the most important antiques and relics of South India. The important attractions at Warrangal are Warrangal Fort, Thousand Pillar Temple, Bhadra Kali Temple and Siddeshwara Temple. Warangal is also well known for its granite quarries, grain market for rice, chillies, cotton, and tobacco.

Tourist Attractions

The Thousand Pillar Temple

This famous Thousand Pillar Temple is located 4 kms away from Hanumakonda crossroad in Warangal district. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and Lord Surya. The temple is a fine specimen of Kakatiya architecture and sculpture and was built by Rudra Devi in 1163 AD. The major attraction of the temple are the thousand pillars in black stone, all these pillars have exquisite geometric designs carved out on them and there is Nandi - the bull carved out on a granite stone. There also are rock cut elephants on both sides of the main shrine. The temple is famous for its richly carved pillars, screens and detailed sculpture.

Bhadrakali Temple

The Bhadrakali Temple is located on the hilltop between the twin cities of Hanamkonda and Warrangal. It was built during the Kakatiya period and there is a 2.7 metre tall stone image of the deity-Goddess Kali. The image shows the goddess in a sitting posture with fierce looking eyes and face wearing a crown. The eight hands of the goddess is shown to be holding various weapons. The structure of the temple is said to be 250 years old and the architectural influence is that of the Chalukyan period.

Warrangal Fort

The Warrangal fort was built by Kakatiya King Ganapati Deva and his daughter Rudramma during the 13th century. The fort was destroyed by invaders and what you now see is just the ruins. The fort is a mud and brick construction and there are three layers to it. The first layer is a mud wall, and the second layer was built up of granite rocks. There are four huge stone gateways about 30 feet high which is carved out of a single rock. The circumference of the outer wall of the fort is 49 kms which is regarded as very large and unique.

Jain Temple

The 2,000-year-old Jain temple of Lord Mahaveer is located in Kolanupaka in Warrangal. The temple is located around 75 kms from Warrangal. It is thronged by members of the Jain community from all over India. The temple has many beautiful images of Thirthankaras. There is a 5 ft high image of Mahaveer which is carved out of Jade looks most attractive.

Ramappa Temple

The Ramappa temple is also known as the Ramalingeswara temple. It is famous for the meticulously done carvings on the walls, pillars and ceilings. The temple is located 64 kms off Warrangal and dates back to 1213. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This beautiful temple stands on a six feet high star-shaped platform and displays the glory and richness of the Kakatiya kingdom. It is interesting to note that the temple is named after the sculptor of the temple and not after the presiding deity. The beautiful Ramappa lake built around the same period flows from near the temple.

Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary

The Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary is located 50 kms away from Warrangal town. It is situated alongside a man made lake named Pakhal and covers an area of 90 acres around the lake. The Pakhal lake was excavated during the first decade of the 13th century. The sanctuary got its name from the man who had excavated the lake centuries ago. Many different animal and bird species including tigers, leopards, hyenas and deer are found here.

Eturnagaram Sanctuary

The Eturnagaram Sanctuary is one of the oldest sanctuaries in Andhra Pradesh and is located around 90 kms from Warrangal. It is situated near the place where the borders of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh meet. The sanctuary is spread over an area of 812 sq kms and apart from different animal and bird species, precious trees like teak are also found here. The animal species found here are Tiger, Leopard, Panther, Wolf, Wild Dogs, Jackals Sloth Bear, Chousingha, Black Buck, spotted deer etc. And apart from the bird species there are some reptile species like Crocodiles, Python, Cobra and Kraite.

Travel

Air: The nearest airport to Warrangal is at Hyderabad which is at a distance of 157 kms.

Rail: Warrangal is connected with most major destinations of India by rail.

Road: There is a wide network of road connecting Warrangal with other major cities.

Related Topics
Andhra Pradesh