Indian States

Andhra Pradesh

Warangal
( Excursions )
General Information | Sightseeing | Travel Information

Ramappa Temple : The Ramappa temple is located in a small village called Palampeta and was built during Kakati Ganapatideva's reign in the year 1213 A.D. by his general Racharla Rudra. This probably is the only temple in India known by the name of the sculptor who built it. The head sculptor was Ramappa, after whom the temple is known today, rather than after the presiding deity, Ramalingeswara, as is the general norm. The Kakatiyas built many Shiva temples during their time in and around Warangal or Orugallu (Ekasilanagaram) as it was known during their rule. A fine example of medieval deccan temple architecture is the famous Ramappa Temple at Palampet, 74km from Warangal. The special features of this temple include 12 breath- taking life size female fiququres of black basalt carved with considerable skill. Characteristic of the Kakatiya Sculpture is the Nandi carved out of a stone at the eastern portico of this temple. The Ramappa temple is a superb example of their love for art, music and dance. The temple is situated in a valley and is built with bricks so light that they can float on water. Yet the temple is so strong that it is still intact after numerous wars, invasions and natural calamities. There was a major earthquake during the 17th century which shook the Ramappa temple and the other nearby temples. In the Ramappa temple many of the smaller structures were neglected and are in ruins. There were even instances of people carrying away the bricks, to be proudly exhibited that they can float on water, before the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) took charge of it. The main entrance gate in the outer wall of the temple is ruined, so one can enter only through a small west gate.

Pakhal 50km from Warangal, is situated amidst undulating forest- clad hills and dales Pakhal Lake, a popular retreat, was completed around 1213 AD by the Kakatiya dynasty. Set around the shores of this lake is the Pakhal wildlife Sanctuary covering an area of 900sq. km. Its dense forest shelter tiger, leopard animals and birds. The best season to visit Pakhal is October- March.

Yadagirigutta Yadagirigutta88km from Warangal and 69km. from Hyderbad, is known for the Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple.

Kalesai : Known as Kashi of the South it is famous for Mukteshwara temple whish has two ligams (Phallus)- one for Lord Shiva and another for Lord Yarna, the God of Death, each guarded by an umbrella of seven hooded stone cobras.

Palampet : Here exists the glorious Ramappa shrines constructed in 1213 AD referred to as the brightest star in the galaxy of medieval temples of Deccan. Constructed in pink sandstone the ornamented bands, floral motifs and an array of dancers, musicians and goddess in stone are unbelievably beautiful.