Warangal previously known as Orugallu and Ekashila nagaram was formerly the capital of Kakatiya dynasty and present headquarters of Warangal district in Telangana state. Warangal comprises along with Hanamkonda and Kazipet, located 148 Kms north-east of Hyderabad. Kakatiyas have built many architectural monuments and temples along with exotic man-made water bodies which are a must to visit in Warangal.
If you happen to drop by Warangal, these are the places you shouldn’t give a miss
Thousand Pillars temple
It is located in Hanamkonda, part of Warangal city, built in 1163 A.D by Kakatiya ruler, Rudradeva. Later it was named after him as Sri Rudreshwara temple. It is widely famous for its architectural beauty built in shape of a star with extensively carved 1000 pillars.
Bhadrakali Temple
Bhadrakali temple is an ancient temple in Warangal. Built in the 8th century, the idol of Goddess Kali is enshrined in this temple. Goddess kali in this temple is also referred to as Tripura Sundari, even though she is having a fierce face and holding weapons in eight hands. Naturally formed rocks and lake near the temple makes it more appealing and peaceful.
Warangal Fort
Constructed in 13th century by the Kakatiya rulers, Ganapati Deva and Rudramma devi, it is spread over a radius of 19 kms between Warangal and Hanamkonda. Though the fort is in ruins it is still appealing for its ancient histroy and monuments. You would see the entrance built in south Indian architectural style and the famous Kakatiya thoranam is built as second way which has become symbol of Telangana state. Also present in the fort is a temple of Goddess Swayambhudevi, Mother Earth.
Ramappa Temple and Lake
Built in 12th century also by the Kakatiyas, enshrines lord shiva and 9ft long statue of Nandi in the entrance of the temple. The stories of the Mahabharata and Ramayana are carved on the temple walls. The temple has a vast park in front which is very peacuful. The picturesque is amazing of the Ramappa lake spread over an area of 82kms with full of greenery.
Pakhal lake and sanctuary
Pakhal lake was constructed for irrigation purposes by the Kakatiya ruler, Ganapati deva is spread around 30 kms which provides a scenic atmosphere. The lake is amongst the forest and huge hills with a vide variety of animals. The place is a retreat to have a good family outing with lots of greenery and water around. The pakhal wild life sactuary is spread over an area of 830 kms.
Laknavaram Lake
Also built by Kakatiya kings located about 80kms from Warangal is spread over around 10,000 acres with dense forests. It has 13 Islands and a Hanging bridge is recently constructed connecting three islands. This place has hotels and restaurants built by the government to make it more prominent tourist spot. The picturesque of greenery and water bodies are breath takingly beautiful.
Medaram Jathara
Also know as Sammakka Saralamma Jathara, is a religious congregation in honour of the goddesses, celebrated in Medaram located in Warangal district. The history of Sammakka and Saralamma dates back to 13th century. The congregation is second largest in India after Kumbha mela. It attracts more than one crore people every Jathara.
Other places like The Khush Mahal, Ghanpur group of Temples and Eturnagaram Wild Life Sactuary are worth watching.
