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Warangal Tourism

The Thousand Pillar Temple

Past And Pilgrimage

Situated around 120 km northeast of Hyderabad, Warangal is the fourth largest city of Andhra Pradesh. Warangal was once the capital of kingdom ruled by Kakatiya Dynasty who ruled the city for more than 2 centuries. The city was then called as 'Orugallu' meaning one stone. It got the name as the entire city was carved in a single stone. Warangal is most noted for the oldest temples and monuments in Andhra Pradesh. The city finds reference in the diary of Marco Polo, the legendary traveler. The temples especially are a great example of architectural skills that were possessed by people in that era. Today it is an important destination in terms of economy. It is a well known exporter of granite, cotton, rice and chillies.

Warangal is a city consisting of three towns namely Warangal, Kazipet and Hanamkonda. These districts have some exquisite lakes and gardens that lend the city a touch of natural beauty. The city comes under the Telangana region which means that you will find more people speaking Telugu language. Warangal is a good place to shop for thick cotton fibre carpets and scroll paintings on a cloth.

Attractions - Long Lost Impressions

Warangal Fort

Although most of the fort is in ruins today, but still Warangal fort is among the best attractions in Andhra Pradesh. Situated just 2 Km from the Warangal Railway Station, the fort is easily accessible from any part of the city. History of the fort dates back all the way to 13th century. It has stood witness to many wars and revolts almost throughout its life. Warangal Fort was destroyed by one of the invaders who successfully penetrated the three layer protection of the fort. The outermost wall which has a circumference of few kilometers is a mud wall which is around 20 feet in height. The second wall is completely built of granite. Warangal Fort is also famous for some exquisite gateways that have become a symbol of Andhra Pradesh Tourism. These huge gateways, carved intricately from top to bottom are called Kirti Toranas (The Gateways of Glory).

Thousand Pillar Temple

Although most of the fort is in ruins today, but still Warangal fort is among the best attractions in Andhra Pradesh. Situated just 2 Km from the Warangal Railway Station, the fort is easily accessible from any part of the city. History of the fort dates back all the way to 13th century. It has stood witness to many wars and revolts almost throughout its life. Warangal Fort was destroyed by one of the invaders who successfully penetrated the three layer protection of the fort. The outermost wall which has a circumference of few kilometers is a mud wall which is around 20 feet in height. The second wall is completely built of granite. Warangal Fort is also famous for some exquisite gateways that have become a symbol of Andhra Pradesh Tourism. These huge gateways, carved intricately from top to bottom are called Kirti Toranas (The Gateways of Glory).

Jain Temple

With over 2000 years of history behind it, Jain temple is among the oldest temples in Warangal. The temple is dedicated to Lord Mahaveera. The most interesting attraction of the temple is a 5 ft high image of Lord Mahaveera which is completely carved out of Jade. There are numerous images of exceptional tirthankaras all around the temple.

Ramappa Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Ramappa Temple is one of the prime examples of exquisite architectural brilliance that Kakatiya Kingdom had. Original name of the temple is Ramalingeswara which is popularly known as Ramappa Temple. It is called so as the name of its constructor was Ramappa. It is the only temple in India that is known by the name of its constructor. The temple is around 70 Km away from Warangal. It stands on a 6 ft high platform and is built of bricks that are so light that they are believed to float in water. The walls of the temple are covered with spellbinding carvings. Astounding level of precision have been achieved on the works. The sanctum has on top a multi storey Shikhara. Even after many centuries, the main portion of the temple still stands without any visible damage. Maha Shivratri is the main festival of the temple which is celebrated for three days.

Accommodation in Warangal

You should not have a problem in finding an apt place according to your wishes to stay in Warangal. There are luxurious hotels where you will world class business facilities along with pampering room and recreational facilities. Then are budget hotels that will cater to all your basic needs with utmost care. Best hotels in the city are City Grand Hotel, Hotel Suprabha, Ashoka Hotel, Punnami Hotel and Hotel Ratna.

How To Reach Warangal

By Air

The nearest airport to Warangal is at Hyderabad which is at a distance of around 130 Km from here. It is best to hire a taxi from the airport to Warangal as it takes the least time and is quite comfortable. It will take around 3 hrs to cover the distance.

By Rail

Warangal has its own railway stations that connects it to almost all parts of India. The station lies on Delhi-Chennai main line which has many important trains running on it and all have a halt at Warangal.

By Road

Warangal has good network of roads that connect it to all the important cities of Andhra Pradesh. Hyderabad is the closest major city to Warangal. There are regular APSRTC buses plying between the two cities. There are private buses as well.

Local Transportation

Auto rickshaws are the most common mode of transportation inside the city and the cheapest as well. You can hire a taxi which is the most comfortable way of getting around in the city. You will also find good number of buses connecting distant parts of the city.