You can’t help but go ‘Wah’ at Warangal!

It was one of India’s most glorious cities back in the 12^th century, replete with exquisite temples, magnificent gateways, spectacular monuments and more, so does it come as a surprise to find its mention even in the diaries of Macro Polo?! Today this incredible town, once the headquarters of the great Kakatiya kingdom makes an interesting visit for the many treasures the Kakatiyas left behind in the form of architecture that can be enjoyed even today…
The fifth largest city of Andhra Pradesh today, Warangal is surely a delight for those touring it. It was known as Oruguallu / Omtikonda / Ekasilanagaram in the past, due to the hillock that was made up on a massive boulder near its Swayambhu Siva Temple, the words oru meaning ‘one’ while kallu stood for ‘stone.’

A treasure trove of spectacular monuments, catching everyone’s attention, the most prominent amongst attractions here is the 12^th century Thousand Pillars Temple. A star shaped structure, this temple being dedicated to Lords Vishnu, Shiva, and Surya is home to three shrines and some amazing architecture that includes exquisitely carved pillars, inscriptions on the ceiling and brilliant doorways. In addition, adding to the beauty of the temple is the Hanumakonda hill here.

Another highly venerated temple here is the Veeranarayana Temple dedicated to Shri Veeranarayana, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Built in Chalukya architectural styles this temple too is known for its stunning architecture and walls filled with intricate carvings.

Another brilliant temple here, again in Chalukya architectural style, is the Bhadrakali temple, an eight century temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. A temple noted for its statue of the goddess with a weapon in each of her eight arms.

Also depicting the glory of the Kaktiya kings and their love of art is the Ramappa Temple also know as Ramalingeswara temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, a little further away from Warangal in the village of Plampet.

It is a marvelous piece of architecture with intricate carvings depicting scenes from sacred Hindu texts such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Besides its impressive pillars, walls and ceilings, this temple is also known for a 9 foot idol of Nandi and a Shivalingam found on a 6 feet high star shaped platform and many other shrines around the main temple structure.

Attracting tourists is also the Padmakshi temple dedicated to Goddess Padmakshi. Capturing the attention of one and all who visit this temple is the magnificent granite pillar called the Annakonda Pillar at the temple’s entrance. Brilliantly carved it is believed to be the reason why most tourists visit this temple.

Visited by thousands during the festival of Maha Shivarathri is the Siddheshwara Temple also dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple too is known for its intricate and exquisite carved pillars, and Chalukyan style of architecture.

However temples are not the only attractions that reflect the glory of the Warangal Empire. Though in ruins today, a visit to the Warangal Fort is a must for tourists in the area. Built in the 13^th century it is a wonderful example of architecture from this region and is known for its massive gateways. Here too in the fort is a temple known for its sculptures. Also adding to the interest is the double wall, and the fact that the outer wall surrounding the fort  is said to be one of the largest in South India.

For those visiting the Bhadrakali temple, the Kakatiya Musical Garden is a wonderful way to spend the evening. Spread over 15 acres, this beautiful garden is most known for its musical fountain that comes to life in the evening with a dazzling light show. Other attractions here include a massive boulder with an artificial waterfall, and boating facilities.

Magnificently constructed, the Kakatiya Rock Garden located near the Fort temple is a spectacular garden known for its many structures carved out of rock which include structures of animals. Rocks are also used in decorating the  flower beds and for the lawns.

Adding to the beauty of the place is the dazzling Pakhal Lake, a manmade lake constructed close to the town on the tributary of the Krishna River. Said to be constructed way back in 1213 AD by the Kakatiya kings, the beauty of the place is accentuated by the lush forest and the hilly background. A picture perfect stop it makes a wonderful picnic spot for those visiting Warangal. The Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary known for its diverse flora and fauna that encloses the lake’s shores is an added benefit for those visiting the lake.

Another lake that makes a great outing here is the Ramappa Lake about 1 km from the Ramappa temple near Palampet. This too was constructed in the 13^th century and is covered by greenery and hills. Not only can tourists enjoy some breathtaking views of the sunset here but also enjoy the boating facilities available here.

The lush forest here is also home to the Ethuranagaram Wildlife Sanctuary, which is one of India’s oldest sanctuaries. Home to animals such as the iger, panther, spotted deer, black buck, Chinkara, Sloth bear and more, this sanctuary is one that attracts many to witness these beautiful animals in their natural habitat.

Around 62 km from Warangal, the Ghapur group of temples also makes a great excursion for those touring Warangal. A wealth of beautiful sculpting that includes mythical figures adorning walls, ceilings and pillars can be found in these 22 temples known for their exquisite architecture.

Last but not the least; try Pembarthy for its famous brassware, sheet metal art, and silver and copper metal handicrafts made famous from the Kakatiyas period. A place known worldwide, besides being an interesting excursion, it’s also a great place to pick up a souvenir or two for family and friends back home.

A city undoubtedly with a rich past, reminders of the glorious days seen strewn all around, Warangal is not just a must for lovers of art, but a delightful destination promising to leave one and all who visit it just spellbound!