Warangal, Information about Warangal, Warangal Tour

Warangal is located in the north–east of Hyderabad in Telangana region in the northern Andhra Pradesh. Warangal, an ancient city, was once the capital of the Kakatiya kingdom which ruled over much of the state from the 12th to the early 14th centuries. Warangal was founded by the Prola Raja of the Kakatiya dynasty in the 12th century AD. The Kakatiya kings were great builders. It was during their time that the Chalukyan style of architecture reached the pinnacle of its glory. Some of the famous examples of this architecture are the Thousand – Pillared Temple, Ramappa Temple and Warangal Fort. Warangal is known for its beautiful lakes, temples and wildlife. It is very rich in antiques and relics. The best season to visit Warangal is from September to February.

History of Warangal

Warangal was founded by the Prola Raja of the Kakatiya dynasty in the 12th century AD, but some identify it with Worakalli, the capital of the Adeva Rajas of Tuluva Andhra or Telangana in the 8th century AD. Warangal or Varankal is believed to be of the Korun Kula of Ptolemy. Warangal was also known as Akshalinagar. In the ancient times, Warangal was also known as Orugallu or Omtikonda due to the huge boulder like hillock situated near the Swayambhu Siva Temple and is also known as Ekasilanagaram. In course of time, it was called as "Orugallu", and finally known as Warangal.

Tourist Attractions in Warangal

There are various places in Warangal which attracts a large number of tourists. Some of the famous tourist attractions are Warangal Fort, Bhadra Kali Temple and Thousand Pillar Temple.

Ramappa Temple
The Ramappa Temple is situated at Palampet, about 77 kms. from Warrangal. This temple represents a combination of Chalukya and Hoysala art of architecture. It is one of the finest examples of temple architecture in South India.

Warangal Fort
Warangal fort is situated about 12 km from Hanamakonda and belongs to the 13th century. The Kakatiya king, Ganapati Deva and his daughter Rudramma built the fort of mud and brick. This massive

fort was an impregnable fort. It was under continuous attack from the Delhi Sultans from the 13th to 14th centuries. The Warangal fort was once surrounded by the two walls and now only the remains of the four huge stone gateways, similar to those of Sanchi, along with several exquisite pieces of sculpture can still be seen in and around the fort.

Thousand Pillar Temple
The Thousand Pillar Temple is situated on the slopes of the Hananakonda Hill. This temple was built by Rudra Deva in 1163 AD in the style of Chalukyan temples, star shaped and triple shrined and a fine specimen of Kakatiya architecture and sculpture. There are three shrines which are dedicated to Lord Shiva, Vishnu and Surya. The temple is known for its richly carved pillars, screens and detailed sculpture. The black basalt Nandi, a monolith, has a lovely polished finish.

Bhadra Kali Temple

The Bhadra Kali Temple is situated on a hilltop between Hanamkonda and Warangal. This temple is dedicated to the goddess Kali and known for its stone image. In this temple, the goddess Kali is depicted with eight arms and carries a weapon in each hand.

Khush Mahal :
This elegant edifice near the fort was built by Shitabh Khan. It is a mute testimony to the glorious past of Warangal. The idols excavated from surrounding area are displayed here.

Around Warangal

Eturnagaram Sanctuary (80 kms.)
It sprawls along the banks of river Godavari and is one of the oldest sanctuaries of Andhra Pradesh. The key fauna includes tiger, leopard, sloth bear, chousingha, black uck and many varieties of birds. Best season – October to May.

Kolunupuka (50 kms.)
The important Jain and Hindu pilgrim centre was the capital of Kalyani Chalukyas in 11^th century and the birth place of Renukacharya, a great Veera Shaiva saint. It has a number of ancient jain and Hindu temples adorned with beautiful sculptures.

How to get here

By Air:
The nearest airport is located at Hyderabad, about 140 km. Hyderabad is connected with Bombay, Bangalore, Bhubaneshwar, Calcutta, Delhi, Madras, Nagpur, and Vishakhapatnam.

By Rail:
Warangal is linked to all the important cities in India by rail.

By Road:
Warangal is connected with all the major cities like Hyderabad, Yadagirigutta, Vijayawada, Armur, Kolanupaka, Jangaon, Kodad, Karimnagar, Nizamabad, Adilabad, Suryapet, Palampet, Jagtial, Khammam, Bhadrachalam, Basara, Bangalore, Mysore and Tirupati.

To know the distances from Warangal click here.