Warangal is an industrial and cultural hub for Andhra Pradesh. Your travel itinerary will include majestic fort and magnificent temples.

Credited as the fifth largest city in the state of Andhra Pradesh, Warangal is situated120 km to the northeast of Hyderabad. Once the ancient capital of the powerful Kakatiya Kingdom, it was referred as Orugallu – One Rock, due to the presence of a huge hillock carved out of one stone. Points of interests include Thousand Pillar temple and Warangal Fort.

History of Warangal

In the ancient world, Warangal was the capital of a powerful kingdom ruled by Kakatiya dynasty in the 12th -14th century. The entire city was carved in a single rock, and thus it was named as Orugallu (One Rock). This dynasty built many impressive monuments, including fortress, four enormous stone gateways, temple dedicated to Lord Shiva (Swayambhu) and the Ramappa temple situated near Ramappa Lake. Marco Polo wrote in his travelogue the cultural and administrative magnificence of the Kakatiya kingdom. 

Ruled by many empires - Hindus, Mughals and English, Warangal became part of Andhra Pradesh post independence. In 1948, Hyderabad annexed to India, became an Indian state. In 1956, under the States Reorganization Act, Hyderabad partitioned as Telangana - the Telugu-speaking region of Andhra Pradesh and eventually Warangal was included.

Tourism in Warangal

Warangal has well preserved its medieval art and architecture present in the impressive forts, enormous stone-gateways, quaint lakes, magnificent temples and striking wildlife. The city is well equipped with modern conveniences, simultaneously conserving its legacy. The lakes and the foliage add gaiety and splendour to the city along with historical heritage. Visit to Warangal is a perfect tourist destination in India.

The Warangal Fort, 13th century star shaped Thousand Pillar temple, Bhadrakali temple, wildlife sanctuaries at Pakhal and Eturnagaram and the Pakhal Lake are points of interest in the tourism map of India.

Once an impregnable fort in Andhra Pradesh; Warangal Fort exhibits the architectural dexterity of the ancient world. The massive fort built in 13th century by Kakatiya dynasty sits pretty on the southeast of Warangal city. The noteworthy feature about the fort is its main gateway that comprises of the four gigantic pillars, crafted from a single rock. The fort with three protective layers, suggests the high standards of security employed during the bygone era.

Exhausted? Take the refuge in the Kakatiya rock garden, located near the Warangal Fort temple. This splendid garden offers rock masterpieces sculpted into deer, lion, giraffe, sambar and antelopes. Rejuvenate your senses in the artistically designed flower arrangements.

Thousand Pillar Temple is a stupendous example of ancient workmanship. Built in 1163 AD by King Rudra Dev, the thousand pillars intricately carved and constructed in the form of a star. Located on the slopes of the Hanumakonda hill, its’ a sensational sight for visitors.

Pakhal Lake constructed in 1213 AD by Kakatiya dynasty is an artificial lake constructed in the tributary of Krishna River. The swell of the hilly terrain with dense forests adds splendour to the picturesque lake view. The Lake spread over 30 sq km is a famous picnic spot for both locals and tourists. Added bonus to the mesmerizing lake is the Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary that houses different species of flora and fauna.