Nagarkurnool District

Headquarters : Nagarkurnool
Revenue divisions : 3 (Achampet, Kalwakurty and Nagarkurnool)
Mandals : 20
Population : 893,308
Area (km2) : 6,545.00 (2,527.04 sq mi)
Literacy : 53.68%
Highways : NH 167, NH 765, SH 5, SH 18, SH 20, SH 21
Rivers : Krishna, Dindi
Vehicle Registration : TS-31

Nagarkurnool district is one of the 33 districts in the state of Telangana. Nagarkurnool was carved out
of Mahabubnagar district and was made as a district on October 11, 2016. 

It is located on the banks of the River Ganges and is famous for its ghats, temples, and spiritual atmosphere. Khajuraho Temples - These temples are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are known for their intricate carvings that depict scenes from Hindu mythology.

Nagarkurnool was a district 100 years ago. It was a separate district during the period of 1794-1904. After a railway line was built to Mahabubnagar for the sake of easy transportation district headquarters was moved from Nagarkurnool.

Nagarkurnool is the district headquarters with a population of 42,000.

Nallamalla forest is located in Nagarkurnool district. Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve, which is the largest tiger reserve in India, in spread in this district. 

Kalwakurthy is the second largest town in Nagarkurnool district with a population of 66,388. There are three revenue divisions under this district. They are Nagarkurnool, Kalwakurthy and Achampet. 85,000 hectares of forest area is under this district. There are 20 mandals and 362 revenue villages in this district. Achampet and Nagarkurnool Assembly constituencies along with parts of Kalwakurthy and Kollapur constituencies come under this district. 

Tourism

The district is also home to highly popular and truly exotic eco-tourism destination called Somasila, located near Kollapur. 

Ecotourism and Adventure Tourism

Amarabag Tiger Reserve

Farhabad View Point in Nallamala

Mallella Theertham waterfall
Someshwara Temple in Somasila of Kollapur mandal

Somasila Boating
There is a boat trip available in Krishna river from Somasila to Srisailam, which will give tourists a wonderful experience.
Sapthanadula Sangamam (confluence of seven rivers) in Somasila
Nallamalla Forest

Saleshwaram jatara and waterfalls 

Religious Tourism

Temples
Umamaheshwara Swamy Temple in Nallamalla

Madhava Swamy temple at Kollapur
Jatprole Temples
Kollapur Madhavaswamy Temple

Maddimadugu Sri Pabbathi Anjaneya Swami Temple

Vattem Venkateshwara Swamy Temple

Mosques

Rangapur Hazrath Niranjan Shah Wali Dargah

Industries

There is cotton industry in Kalwakurthy. 

Irrigation Projects

Kalwakurthy lift irrigation system, Palmuru-Rangareddy lift irrigation system, Srisailam left bank canal tunnel is located in this district. 

Completed

Priyadarshini Jurala Major Irrigation Project located near Revulapally village, Dharur Mandal, Jogulamba Gadwal Dist. to irrigate an ayacut of 102,200 acres (41360 Ha.) under Right Main canal DHARUR,GADWAL, ITIKYALA, MANOPAD mandals of Jogulamba gadwal dist and Left Main Canal in drought prone Mandals of ATMAKUR,KOTAKOTA, PEBBAIR,SRIRANGA PUR, WEEPANGANDLA in Wanaparthy district and Pentlavelli, PANGAL in Nagarkurnool district

Under Construction

Alimineti Madhava Reddy Srisailam Left Bank Canal Project (AMRP) was started in 1983 located in Peddavoora(M), Nalgonda District to irrigate 3 lakh acres annd supplying drinking water to the fluoride affected villages enroute.

Kalwakurthy renamed Mahatma Gandhi LIS Major Irrigation Project located in Regumanigadda of Yellur (V) Kollapur (M) Nagarkurnool district is proposed to provide irrigation water to an extent of 3.40 lakhs acres and drinking water to chronically drought prone upland areas in Mahabubnagar district covering about (303) villages in erstwhile taluks of Kollapur, Nagarkurnool, Achampet, Jadcherla and Kalwakurthy constituencies (in 19 Mandals).

Rajiv Bhima LIS Major Irrigation Project located fore shore of priyadarshini jurala project for Lift-I and foreshore of Ramanpad Reservoir, Ramanpad (V), Atmakur (M), for Lift-II in Wanaparthy District to irrigate 207022 acres in in Makthal, in Mahabubnagar District Atmakur, Wanaparthy in Wanaparthy District and Kollapur Mandal in Nagarkurnool District.

Proposed

Palamuru Rangareddy Lift Irrigation project is a Major Irrigation Project at Karvena village of Bhoothpur, Mahabubnagar district is approved by government and taken up with an estimated cost of Rs.35,250 crore and seeks to irrigate about 10 lakh acres in Mahabubnagar, Ranga Reddy and Nalgonda districts besides providing water for drinking and industrial needs in and around Hyderabad.


Revenue Divisions : 3

1. Achampet 
2. Kalwakurthy
3. Nagarkurnool

Mandals : 20

Nagarkurnool Revenu Division Mandals : 9

1. Bijinapally 
2. Nagarkurnool
3. Peddakothapal ly
4. Telkapally 
5. Thimmajipet
6. Tadoor
7. Kollapur
8. Pentlavelli 
9. Kodair

Kalwakurty Revenu Division Mandals : 5

1. Kalwakurty
2. Urkonda
3. Veldanda 
4. Vangoor
5. Charakonda

Achampet Revenu Division Mandals : 6

1. Achampet 
2. Amrabad 
3. Padara
4. Balmoor
5. Lingal
6. Uppununthalanthala

Source

http://www.gloriousindia.com/g/Telangana/Nagarkurnool

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Nallamala Hills

Nallamala Hills located in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh is one of the most soothing hill stations,wrapped in an amazing beauty, shimmering gushing water, deep valleys and thick forests enchants the visitor’s mind and soul.

Pennar and Krishna are two big rivers in this region and Nallamala hills are located between these two rivers. The two big peaks of this hill range are Bhairani at 1100 meters distance from the sea level and Gundla Brahmeswara at 1048 meters level.

For most tourists taking the road to Srisailam, the view of the imposing dam with river Krishna’s waters gushing out of its gates and a darshan of Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy is not enough without a glimpse of dense Nallamala forest in Farahabad.

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Umamaheshwaram Temple

Umamaheswaram also known as Maheshwaram is a temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, located near Rangapur Village, Achampet Mandal, Nagarkurnool District, Telangana India on very tall hills of Nallamala forests showcases a unique Shivalinga with dual color white on one side and red on the other.

The presiding deities in Umamaheshwaram are Mallikarjuna (Shiva) and Bhramaramba (Devi).

Umamaheshwaram Temple is also known as Kubera Sthanam. There are other Temples here of Lord Ganesha, Lord Veerabhadra Swamy, Lord Janardhana Swamy and also that of Lord Nagaraju.

Umamaheswaram, a temple perched in the cliffs of Nallamala, a northern gateway to Srisailam overlooking the vast Deccan plateau. It is a halt and entry to Nallamala on ancient pilgrim trail to Lord Mallikarjuna, deep in the hills.  Sri Giri or Sri Parvati known as Sri Sailam (Sri’s Mountain) which is mentioned in Markandeya Purana (LVII.15), Kumara Purana (30.45-8) and Agni Purina (109). The Padma Purana notes that on the summit of this auspicious and beautiful mountain resides god Mallikarjuna, who is identified as one of the twelve Jyotirlinga's of India, the holy center of Shaivism.

To reach the temple, one has to ride on very steep and dangerous curves of 5 mile length from the bottom of the hill.  Hill ranges shields the temple and 500 metres of stretch to Papa Nasanam. Through the day hardly any sunlight falls on this stretch, thus maintaining the temperature below normal year round. 

Umamaheswaram is popular for its mysterious papanasanam, a small stream that flows beneath the mountain rocks (from the vast maze of roots join flows in rock strata and form springs that emerge at cliffs). The speciality of Papanasanam is that, the stream flows into a small pit and at any given time, you can scoop out a mug of water and the moment you take some water out, it refills itself within seconds ! The belief is, sprinkling this water over you will wash away your sins and also some traditional folk collect it for their medicinal practice.

Traditions as well as epigraphical sources inform us that the inaccessible shrine of Srisailam is approachable through four places on the plains, generally called the gateways of Srisailam on its four-cordinal directions. They are Tripurantakam in the Prakasam district, in the East, Siddhavatam in the Cuddapah district, in the South, Alampuram in the Jogulamba Gadwal district, in the west and Umamahesvaram in the Nagarkurnool district, in the North. 

Umamaheshwaram Sacred grove 

Sacred Groves are small groves that are specific places which are protected and conserved by the local communities as being the sacred residences of local deities and sites for religious and cultural rituals.
The grove is around Shiva temple situated in the middle of the hill surrounded by forests. Near the temple water percolates through the rocks throughout the year and harbours many non flowering plants. It has the richest flora in Nagarkurnool District. About 400 plants were recorded during floristic studies of which about 150 are perennial. Bryophytes like Riccella, Notothallus, Moss, Marchantia, and Pteridophytes, viz Salaginella species, Pteridium spp, Adiantum incisum, Actiniopteris, Petris etc were observed. 

Human interference has started with tea stalls etc too close to the temple adding to pollution. It is an important grove requiring better protection.

Gateways to Srisailam

The concept of the gateways of Srisailam is traceable from 8th -9th centuries AD. All these places, particularly the four main places developed as centers of pilgrimage.

1. TRIPURANTAKAM: The presiding deity here is called Tripurantakadeva, with Goddess Tripurasundaridevi. This place is also called Kumaragiri. Before the construction of Guntur-Guntakal Railway, pilgrims from coastal Andhra used to pass through this place in their journey to Srisailam.If they go by foot they need not go to Dornala. They can directly go from Erragondapalm, Telugurayacheruvu and reach Chukkalaparvatam, climbing which they can reach Srisailam. Now the bus goes through Dornala. Tripurantakama is historically an important place. There are more than a hundred inscriptions incised on the walls and loose stone slabs in the temple compound. Most of these records belong to the medieval period from eleventh to sixteenth century that is from the period of the western Chalukyas to the Kakatiya period. Several local chiefs like the Velanati Chodas, Kota chiefs, and the Kakatiya rulers and their subordinates endowed the temple of Tripurantakadeva with numerous gifts. The Kayastha chiefs were the great worshippers of this God. Ambadeva of that family having revolted against the Kakatiya Queen Rudramadevi, proclaimed independence in A.D. 1289, to which effect he set up a lengthy record in Sanskrit at this temple. The ground plan of the main temple at Tripurantakam is in star shape with a spacious interior garbhagriha and mandapa. It is datable to the early part of the Western Chalukyas. Pasupata Saivism seems to be the main religion that prevailed here for a long period. The Aradhya Saivas came into prominence from fourteenth century.

2. SIDDHHAVATAM: It is a taluk town in the Cuddapah District. The presiding deity here is Jyoti Siddhavatesvara. Jyothi is another holy place very near to this and its god is called Jyothisvara or jyothinath. These two places are on the bank of Pinakini or Penna River. Pilgrims from South visit this place and proceed to Srisailam. We do not find many inscriptions in this temple.

Pushpagiri is also on the bank of the river Pinakini. It is about 12km. from Cuddapah, its district headquarters. The presiding deity here is Vaidyanathasvami. Indranathasvami and Chennakesava are also popularly worshipped here. The antiquity of the place seems to be early as the Ikshvaku period. An inscription at Nagarjunakonda refers to Pushpagiri, where certain Bodhisri is said to have built here a stone pavilion, i.e. silamandapa. The earliest extant epigraphical record at Pushpagiri is datable to the time of the Rashtrakuta king Krishna II (A.D. 878-914) or III (A.D. 939-967). Therein, it is clearly stated that the place is the southern gateway of Srisailam. Inscriptions of other dynasties like the Western Chalukyas, the Kakatiyas, the later Vaidumbas and the Vijayanagara are noticeable here. The main temple here is a double shrine structure for the deities Chennakesava and Umamaheshvara.

3. ALAMPURAM: On the left bank of Tungabhadra in the Jogulmba Gadwal district is the Western gateway of Srisailam. It is also called Halampura in early inscriptions. God Blalabrahmesvara is the presiding deity here. The Goddess Jogulamba, the main female deity here, is considered to be one of the eighteen Sakthis and hence the place is a Saktipitha like Srisailam. There are nine early temples dedicated to nine Brahmesvaras, namely Bala-Brahma, the main deity, Arka-Brahma, Visva-Brahma, Padma-Brahma, Garuda-Brahma, Kumara-Brahma, Vira-Brahma, Svarga-Brahma and Taraka-Brahma. All these temples are early Chalukya structures with uniform curvilinear vimanas, except the sixth one, which is in Dravidian style. The temples are very important study of early temple architecture in the middle Deccan. There are more than fifty inscriptions in these temples, the earliest being that of Chalukya Vikramaditya I (A.D. 657 - 678) and the latest being those of Krishnadevaraya. Of all the four gateways of Srisailam, Alampuram is the richest in ancient structures and epigraphical records. The main school of Saivism that flourished here is kalamukha and later Pasupata. The influence of Siddha cult at Amalapura in the early period is much said in the local tradition.

4. UMAMAHESHVARAM: The Fourth gateway is Umamaheshvaram about 6 km from Achampeta in Nagarkurnool District. It is situated on the edge of a hill forming the vast plateau, generally called Sri Parvata. God Umamaeshara is the presiding deity. Pilgrims from Telangana region in the former days had generally to pass through this temple. The present bus route does not touch this place; it goes two miles away from the temple. According to the inscriptions preserved in the temple the history of the place starts from the Kakatiya period and its references at other places are traceable to the later Chalukya period, from Trailokyamalla Somesvarai I (A.D. 1042 - 68). The Recherla king Madanayaka (1421 AD - 1430 AD) constructed for the benefit of pilgrims a paved footpath with steps from this place up to Jatararevu covering nearly 50 km up to river Krishna. After crossing river at this ferry point known as Jatararevu they have to climb up the Chukkala-parvatam and walk about 4 km to reach Srisailam.

It is in the picturesque Nallamala forest range around 150 kilometers away from Hyderabad on the Hyderabad-Srisailam highway. A festival is held here annually during February and March to celebrate Maha Shivaratri, the Great Night of Shiva.

In the nearby village of Rangapur, one can visit the famous Darga of Niranjanshalvali, where every year on January 17th night, one can stay witness to colossal processions. Lakhs of people partcipate in the procession, making it a colourful affair.

Fifty km from the temple, en route Srisailam, one can see the Mallela Thirtham which houses lord Shiva. The waterfall here is a huge attraction. In order to reach here, one needs to take a diversion from Ottvarla Palli.

Eighty km from here, one can visit Maddimadugu, one more celebrated temple of Lord Anjaneya which experiences thousands of devotees every Saturday and Sunday.

Near the Umamaheshwaram temple, one can have a tour of the world's largest Amarabad Tiger Sanctuary in Mannanur, the Nallamalla forest along the Krishna River. The river cuts through a picturesque gorge of the Nallamala Hills with deep valleys on both sides. The sanctuary, with a wide area of more than 3000 sq. km.

If one wishes to stay back and enjoy even more the surroundings and mysticism of the Umamaheshwaram temple, one has the option for luxurious accommodation in the nearby town of Achampet. If one opts for budget accommodation, the temple has a guesthouse for themselves, next to the temple. One can stay there for a nominal payment of rupees fifty.

Timings : 7:00 AM - 8:30 PM

Contact : +91-1800-425-46464 

 

Sources
https://tourism.telangana.gov.in/divine-destinations/UmaMaheshwaraSwamy

http://hindutourism.com/11-2-11/srisailam-gateways
Hinduism in Middle India: Narasimha, The Lord of the Middle - Page 92
Lavanya Vemsani 

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Jatprole Temples

Jatprole or Jataprolu in Kollapur Mandal, Nagarkurnool District is popular for two temples known as Madana Gopala Swamy Temple and a group of Shiva temples including the famous Agasthyeswara Swamy.

The temples were moved to Jetprole from the villages of Malleswaram and Manchalakota during the construction of Srisailam.

Madana Gopala Swamy temple, also known as Venu Gopala Swamy temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna. It was built by Rajas of Jetprole during the 16th century.

Lord Sri Krishna who is one of the Ten Incarnations of Lord Vishnu is known as Madana Gopala when he is represented with Rukmini and Satyabhama or otherwise he is known as Venu Gopala Swamy.

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Sri Ranganayaka Swamy Temple

Sri Ranganayaka Swamy Temple is located in Srirangapur,  Pebbair Mandal,  Wanaparthy district, Telangana State, India.

Srirangapuram temple situated at an island formed by 'Ratna Pushkarini' lake and is renowned for the Sri Ranganathaswamy temple. 

There is an interesting story behind this temple. It is said that the King Krishnadevaraya, Vijayanagaram ruler once went to Srirangapuram and was mesmerized by the beauty of Sri Ranganayaka Swamy Temple there. And then he decided to construct a Ranganayaka Swamy Temple in his kingdom. 

Later, Ranganayaka (Lord Vishnu) appeared in his dream and told the king that his idol is lying in the kingdom and an eagle would direct him to that place. And it is said that succeeding day Krishna Devaraya followed the eagle and found the idol between Kothakota and Kanvyapalli mountains. The temple was constructed near Ratna Pushpakarni Lake in the kingdom.

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Kollapur Madhava Swamy Temple

Madhava Swamy temple at Kollapur was built by King Sri Surabhi Madhava Rayalu of the Jetprole Rajas of Jetprole during the 16th century A.D. on the left bank of River Krishna, at Manchalakatta village.

The architecture of the temple is exceedingly beautiful. All around the temple walls the beautifully carved sculptures depict the 24 aspects of Vishnu and the Dasa-Avatars of Vishnu. 

Due to the submergence under the waters of Srisailam Dam, the temple was shifted and transplanted at Kollapur in the year 1989 from Manchalakatta village.

Temple Timings : Morning: 6:00 am to 9:00 am, Evening: 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

How to Reach
Hyderabad Jedcherla - Nagarkurnool - Kolhapur 182 kms
Kurnool Beechupalli - Nagarala - Kolhapur 113 kms
Mahabubnagar Kothakota - Wanaparthi - Kothapally-Kolhapur 110kms

Kollapur is famous for countless temples. Kollapur region is an area spanning the Nallamala forest

area on the banks of the river Krishna in the Nagarkurnool district, in the state of Telangana India.

The Someshwara, Sangameshwara, and Malleshwara temples are in this region, with traces of architectural treasures from the 2nd century BC. Hundreds of ancient temples are visible in the area, mainly built over 1,500 years ago. 

Due to similar broad roads and surrounding tree plantations, people used to refer to Kollapur as Telangana Mysore (a reference to the larger city of Mysore).


Source
TEMPLES EXPLORERS.
http://www.ghatroads.in/south-india-travel/temples-tourism-info/krishna-left-bank

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Somashila View Point and Boating

Somasila is a temple town that has recently been developed as an eco-tourism project is located in Kollapur Mandal Nagarkurnool district, Telangana State India. It is on the banks of the Krishna River and Somasila reservoir has an island-like appearance and attracts pilgrims round the year.

It is a perfect place for people who love greenery and water. There are water front cottages to stay at Somasila operated by Telangana Tourism.

The place is also a popular religious destination, thanks to 15 temples dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva. The most famous of them all is the Sri Lalitha Someswara Swamy Temple. The temple complex is where all these temples are located, and all of these 15 temples house a Shivalinga.

Someshwar Swamy Temple (a replica of ancient temple reconstructed as the original place was submerged in reservoir area) a highly revered shrine in Somasila.

There is one more thing that is very big here in Somasila. It’s the festival of Pushkara Snanam where devotees take a dip in the Krishna River, and is considered very auspicious. Here’s the interesting part – the festival is observed once in 12 years!

Backwaters backed up by Srisailam dam has a unique ecosystem with many species of aquatic life, water birds and animals. 

Boating facilities is available at Somasila in the backwaters of Srisailam Dam.

Tourists can view the scenery around from the open deck while travelling in the boat.

Somasila also has beautiful Haritha cottages, for booking of cottages and boating.

With beautiful surroundings and back waters Somasila is an ideal tourist spot to visit. Somasila is at a distance of 172 kms from Hyderabad.

In order to facilitate amenities for tourists, TSTDC is providing accommodation with good landscaping at the site. There is a restaurant with a 40 seating capacity.

Telangana Tourism department has launched Pontoon Boat services, on Krishna river, from Somasila of Kollapur mandal in Nagarkurnool District to Srisailam.

The boat has been named 'Somasila.' The boat will traverse 110 km in five hours, along the Krishna river.
Tourists can view the scenery around from the open deck while travelling in the boat.

The five-hour boat ride is expected to be a memorable one for nature lovers as the river courses its way through hills and valleys exposing tourists to exotic flora and fauna.

TSTDC to offer a road-river-road circuit which promises combination of a long drive, a pilgrimage, a glimpse of the forest and wildlife and a river cruise with lunch on board.

In weekends, the Tourism Corporation is offering Rs 2,800 per head package to tourists. The fee could include breakfast, lunch, dinner and accommodation. Those who want to travel by launch from Somasila are required to pay an additional Rs 600 per head.

The district offers vast scope for water sports development. It is endowed with waterfalls at Singotam and Yelluru. Other tourist attractions in the district include Sangameswara temple, Somasila temple, ancient temples at Jataprolu and Kadilivanam.

The package includes visit to Mallela Teertham waterfalls and Srisailam dam. Two Harita hotels have been set up – one at Jataprolu and the other at Somasila – at a cost of Rs 99 crore. Arrangements for special boating in Somasila are being made.

The bus takes you from Hyderabad on what holds enough promise to be a memorable journey. After crossing the Forest Department check-post at Mannanur, the first stop is at Farahabad, where a breath-taking viewpoint greets you after a few kilometres stretch of dense Nallamala forest. You whip your camera out and take all the pictures you wish, including ‘selfies’ and ‘vidfies’ with a smartphone.

An hour later it is onwards to ‘Mallela Teertham’, the waterfalls bang in the middle of the Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve and then the sight imposing, larger-than-life Srisailam dam and the large water spread too, make visitors shoot more photographs.

After a pass-through that affords a glimpse of ‘Paaladhaara and Panchadaara’, two very thin trickles of waterfall from a height, it is time for a darshan of ‘Sakshi Ganapati’.

As one reaches Srisailam, it is time to check into rooms and quickly freshen up before heading out for a darshan of Lord Mallikarjunaswamy before dinner and getting ready for a night’s sleep. On day two, those interested can have a second darshan at the temple, before going down the ropeway to ‘Paatala Ganga’ to board a boat. The five-hour cruise over the waters of the River Krishna has a visit to Akka Maa Devi temple en route and lunch on board before touching Somasila.

At Somasila, there are a couple of rooms at the Haritha Resort run by the TS Tourism Development Corporation (TSTDC) and take in the serene view of the backwaters, apart from also visiting the Someswara Temple. And then its back to business, to work, on a drive that is bound to be with a few regrets.

All this will be a reality within a fortnight and the road-cum-forest-cum-river-road circuit is bound to attract those in the concrete jungle, says TSTDC Chairman Pervaram Ramulu. He goes on to add this could possibly be a one-of-its-kind combination of a long drive, a pilgrimage, a glimpse of the forest and wildlife and a river cruise with lunch on board.

Development of the Hyderabad-Somasila-Srisailam route. Measures to provide amenities on the Hyderabad-Kollapur route are being looked into. Currently, one trip a week is planned. Daily packages will be implemented depending on the tourist arrivals.

Where to Stay
Riverfront Mrugavani SomasilaOnce at the Riverfront Mrugavani Somasila, the focus of attention is on the ring of low meadowed hills with the river waters kissing them on all edges.


Haritha Hotel, SomasilaThe resort is located on the nook of the land which means the river is completely surrounding the resort. Wake up to great views and piping hot filter coffee! This temple town is around four hours from Hyderabad, and we recommend taking a road trip as you'd pass through scenic vistas.

FOR BOOKINGS CONTACT
Phone No +91-6301857270

Note: The Hotel is leased out to private party. Please contact hotel directly for bookings. Hotel Terms and Conditions apply. Please read terms and conditions of the hotel.

Top attractions in the area
Sangameswara Temple in Middle of the Somasila Water Reservoir
Sri Jogulamba Bala Brahmeswara Swamy Temple (Alampur)
Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple (Singotam)
Madhava Swamy Temple (Kollapur)
Sangameswara Temple in Middle of the Somasila Water Reservoir

Kollapur is at a distance of 9 kms from Somasila is also famous for several temples and can be visited together.
9 km from Kollapur
105 km from Mahabubnagar
186 km from Hyderabad



Sources
http://www.telangananewspaper.com/somasila-boats-from-srisailam-of-mahabubnagar-district/
https://www.telanganastateofficial.com/somasila-srisailam-boat-service/
http://etelangana.org/news/news_details/5801
https://tourism.telangana.gov.in/hotels/SomasilaHotel

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Somasila Temple

Sri Lalitha Someswara Swamy temple is a Hindu temple located at banks of Krishna River Somasila village in Nagarkurnool District of Telangana State, India.

It is believed to have been built during the 7th century. Lord Shiva is the presiding deity here. Mahashivaratri and Karthika Pournami are celebrated here with much religious fervor.

The temple was shifted from old Somasila village to higher altitude to protect it from being submerged in Krishna water during the construction of Srisailam Dam.

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SRSP Lakshmi / Laxmi Canal

Lakshmi / Laxmi Canal with a total length of 3.5 km from SRSP (Sri Ram Sagar Project) reservoir to Peddavagu is used to irrigate 8,849 ha (21, 866 acres) of ayacut with a head discharge of 14.12 Cumecs (500 Cusecs) in Nizamabad District

Nizamabad

Sri Ram Sagar Reservoir - Kothapally - Renjarla - Peddavagu (Shetpalle)

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SRSP Saraswati Canal

Saraswati Canal with total length of 144 Kms from Sri Ram Sagar reservoir to Kaddam Narayna 79,000 acres in Nirmal district.
Reddy Reservoir is used to irrigate total ayacut of

Nizamabad
Sri Ram Sagar reservoir - Koutla - Sofinagar - Mukthapur - Narsapur - Babapur

Nirmal
Koratikal  - Chandaram - Danthampalle - Nagapur - AdaviSarangapur - Kaddam Narayna Reddy Reservoir

SRSP (Sri Ram Sagar Project) Stage I
Saraswathi Canal (47 km) to irrigate 14,151 ha (34,967 acres) of ayacut with a head discharge of 42.47 Cumecs (1500 Cusecs) as part

SRSP (Sri Ram Sagar Project) Stage II
 Saraswathi Canal from Km 77 to 144 with modernization of Kadam canal from Km 0.00 to Km 77.00 to benefit total ayacut of 79,000 acres.

It irrigates 79000 acres of ayacut by pumping of 10 TMC feet of water from Yellampalli Barage from 6.5 km to km 77 of Kadem canal

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SRSP Flood Flow Canal

SRSP Flood Flow Canal is a 130 km long gravity canal from Sriram Sagar Project, Sangam Village,
Nizamabad District to Mid Manair Dam, Manwada Village, Karimnagar District, Telangana.

This Canal initiated as part of Sriram Sagar stage-II in which the foundation stone was laid by the former Prime Minister P. V. Narasimha Rao in 1991. With this Canal the surplus water from Sriram Sagar Project can be taken into Mid Manair Dam to utilize another 25 tmcft and also it can be used to fill the Lower Manair Dam at KarimnagarCity.

Canal construction was completed by July 2010, It was open in Aug 2010 after couple of trials. Canal is currently using to fill Lower Manair Dam as Mid Manair is under construction.

It has been designed in such way that it will discharge 22000 cusecs water (Max Capacity), which means it can carry 50 tmcft water into Mid Manair (26 tmcft) and Lower Manair (24 tmcft) reservoirs in just 25 days at its full canal capacity (i.e. 2 tmcft per day).

The flood canal can be used only if the water level is above 1070 feet. The flood canal is not in use in most of the years as the water inflows in to the Sriram Sagar reservoir is not adequate to build up the level to 1070 ft. As an alternative, Yellampalli Lift Canal from Yellampalli Project is under construction with which water will be lifted into Flood Flow Canal at Gangadhara to feed Mid Manair Dam.

In fact, by re-engineering of this defunct canal to reverse its flow direction by raising its bank levels and installing low head high flow concrete volute pumps at existing major aqueducts, at balancing reservoirs & at Sriram Sagar reservoir inlet point, Godavari flood waters during monsoon months from the Pranahita Chevella lift can be stored in the 110 tmcft gross storage capacity of Sriram Sagar reservoir for use during the dry months.[5] The stored water can be released back in to Kakatiya Canal by gravity from the Sriram Sagar reservoir for use in the command area of SRSP as well as Pranahita Chevella projects when adequate water is not available in the lower Godavari basin during dry seasons. Also remodelled SRSP flood canal can be used for supplying water by gravity for irrigating nearly 300,000 acres on both sides of the canal by the water supplied from the Pranahita Chevella project. To facilitate this remodelling in future, the single lift (96 MWC) envisaged from Myadaram tank to the SRSP flood flow canal should be split in to two lifts (76 + 20 MWC) via Kakatiya canal.[6] The re-engineering of this canal is similar to modifications carried out to reverse the water flow of ancient Grand canal under Eastern Route project of South to North Water Transfer in China

Nizamabad

Sriram Sagar Project (Sangam) - Baswapoor - Vempalle - Gandlapet (intersects Peddavagu River) 

Jagtial

Dammannapeta - Nagapur - Errapur - Bandlalingapur - Vittempet -  Metlachittapur - Kathlapur - Thakkallapalle - Rangapur - Rampur - Nookapalle - Muthyampeta

Karimnagar

Burgupalle - Fakeerpet - Garsekurthi - Mulavagu (Vardavelli)

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SRSP_Flood_Flow_Canal

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SRSP Kakatiya Canal

Kakatiya Canal is a major canal in the Telangana State in India. Its full name is SRSP Kakatiya Canalas the canal originates from the Sriram Sagar dam to  to the Lower Manair Dam (LMD) Reservoir to Khammam Reservoir

It feeds North Telangana by passing through the region for irrigation and as well as drinking water for major cities.

Kakatiya Canal is about 284 km long with 9,700 cusecs flow capacity and passing through Nizamabad,  Jagtia, Karimnagar, Warangal, Hanumakonda, Mahabubabad.

Suryapeta and Bhadradri Kothagudem Districts will benefited by inflow of Kakatiya Canal to Musi River.

This canal is an inter river basin transfer link by feeding Godavari River water to Krishna river basin in Warangal and Khammam districts. 4 Units of 9 MW each to generate 36 MW have also been set up to harness the water head before feeding water in to the canal.

Located at Km.146.00 of Kakatiya Canal on Manair River near Karimnagar is a balancing reservoir.

Nizamabad

Mendora, Velkatoor, Venchariyal, Yergatla

Jagtial

Dabba - Ibrahimpatnam - Regunta - Metpalli - Vellulla - Masaipeta, Peddapur, Ramarao Palle, Nagulpet, Vallampally, Mediaplli, Thatipally, Ambaripet, Anthargam, Manala, Lambadipalli, Namapur

Karimnagar

Raghampeta - Choppadandi - Konerupalli - Malkapur - Lower Maner Dam - Yadavulapalli - Alugunur - Manakondur - Devampally - Gattu Duddenapally - Narsingapuram - Kareempet - Singapuram - Huzurabad

Mulugu 

 Suraram - Laknavaram - Chinthagattu 

Hanumakonda

Paidipally

Warangal Rural
Mogilicherla - Geesugonda - Sangem - Konkapaka - Yellanda - Wardannapet - Rayaparthy - Muripirala Balancing reservoir - Venkateshwarapally

SRIRAMASAGAR PROJECT STAGE- II  comprises of (i) Extension of Kakatiya Main Canal from KM 284.00 to 346.00 (upto Musi river which joins in Krishna River) near Anantharam, Mahabubabad district.

Mahabubabad 

 Chinnavangara - Pedda Vangara - Narsingapuram Reservoir (Bayyana Vaagu) - Kodakandla

Proposed Kaleshwaram lift irrigation project water will be lifted to Sripada Sagar at Yellampalli in Ramagundam from this project and then it will be conveyed to mid-Manair reservoir.

Kakatiya canal repair work will be undertaken soon on a war footing and a sum of Rs 130 crore has been sanctioned for the purpose, Telangana Irrigation Minister T Harish Rao said today.

After carrying out the repairs, the water from the canal, which has a storage capacity of 8,500 cusec, would be available for irrigation, Rao said.

http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/kakatiya-canal-repair-work-to-start-soon-telangana-minister/1/504756.html

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Asifabad Peddavagu River

Start : Sirpur (U)-Kerameri hills, Komaram Bheem Asifabad district
End : Murliguda in Bejjur, Komaram Bheem Asifabad discharging into the Pranahita river
Length : 100 km.
Sri Komaram Bheem Project is a Medium Reservoir under construction located at Ada village, Asifabad Mandal, Komaram Bheem Asifabad, District, Telangana.

This Project proposed to supply water to Asifabad, Wankidi, Kaghaznagar, and Sirpur mandals more than 45,000 in acres. But currently, the project is providing irrigation water to about 20,000 acres under its left canal 35 km. Right canal will provide irrigation water to about another 25000 acres.

Peddavagu(Jagannadhapur) is a Medium Irrigation Project under construction near Jagannathpur (V), Kaghaznagar (M), Komaram Bheem Asifabad district. The scheme is intended to irrigate an ayacut of 15,000 acres.

The Sirpur Paper Mills was always accused of releasing effluents into the stream posing threat to cattle and other life forms

The closure of Sirpur Paper Mills (SPM) at Kagaznagar town not only brought a great upheaval in the lives of about 5,000 of its workers and employees, but has also helped reduce water and air pollution in the area to a considerable extent.

Much cleaner water runs in the Peddavagu (large stream) now bringing relief to man and animal in the seven villages of Dahegaon and Bejjur mandals of Komaram Bheem Asifabad district which lie on its banks or close to it.

It used to get polluted at Kagaznagar town where the SPM is located and showed its impact on villages of Chedvai, Bombaiguda, Penchikalpet, Agarguda, Gundepalli, Kammargaon and Nandigam.

The SPM, where paper production started way back in 1942, was always accused of releasing effluents into the stream posing threat to cattle and other life forms. Paper production was suspended at the mill in October last owing to accumulated losses over the years.

Effluents released in the Peddavagu had played havoc in the area until a big hue and cry was raised by villagers following death of cattle over a decade ago. The SPM management did install the effluent treatment plant but there was no stopping of complaints, albeit muted, from villagers about the apparatus not being used.

“Many a time our cattle refused to drink water flowing in the stream. It was obvious that effluents had been released in it,” recalled Kammargaon sarpanch Madapa Srinivas.

The flow of clean water in Peddavagu also signifies a happy augury for the vulture colony resident on the Pala Rapu cliff on the banks of Peddavagu near Nandigam village in Bejjur mandal.

According to villagers scores of the scavenger birds had died in the past owing to consumption of polluted water caused by effluent discharge from the SPM.

The Forest Department, which has launched a vulture conservation programme, will shortly conduct a comparative study of pollution in Peddavagu as it has even samples of water before the SPM was closed.

“The study is essential as pollution can leave a lasting impact on wild animals and birds in the area,” observed Bejjur Forest Range Officer M. Ram Mohan.

Many a time our cattle refused to drink water flowing in the stream. It was obvious that effluents had been released into it.

Source

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/peddavagu-flows-cleaner-thanks-to-closure-of-spm/article7166452.ece

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St. Mary's Basilica

One of the most famous Catholic Churches of the city, St. Mary's Basilica is located at Sarojini Naidu  Road in the heart of Secunderabad. The decree designating it as a basilica was issued in November, 2008.

St. Mary's Church is the oldest Roman Catholic church in the city of Secunderabad, India.

The church has four bells, which were brought from Italy in 1901. One of the bells is reported to have developed cracks.

It was formerly the Cathedral of the Archdiocese of Hyderabad. It is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Adjacent to the church is the convent of St. Ann's which runs the St. Ann's High School, Secunderabad.

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St Joseph's Cathedral, Hyderabad

St Joseph's Cathedral is a Roman Catholic Cathedral located at Gunfoundry, north of Abids and King Kothi, in  Hyderabad, Telangana State, India.

It is the cathedral of the Archdiocese of Hyderabad and one of the most beautiful churches of Hyderabad and Secunderabad cities of Telangana, India.

Established in 1820 AD, the construction of the present structure began in 1869 when Fr. Antonio Tagliabue of the Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions (PIME) bought an extensive plot of land near Chaderghat, in what is now called Gunfoundry(so named for the ammunition centre built there by the Nizam of Hyderabad), to build a school, a church and a convent. Msgr. Pietro Caprotti (Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions), laid its foundation on 18 March 1870, the eve of the Solemnity of St. Joseph. Fr. Luigi Malberti (Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions), took charge in 1872 and completed the main building, which was consecrated and opened for divine worship on Christmas Eve of 1875.

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Jama Masjid

Musheerabad Masjid or MASJID E KALAN (also known as Musheerabad Badi Masjid, or Jama Masjid Musheerabad) , is a mosque located in the Musheerabad locality of Hyderabad, Telangana State, India.

This mosque was built in 1626-1672 CE by the Qutb Shahi ruler, Abdullah Qutub Shah. The main entrance to this mosque has five pointed arches while the courtyard is flanked by three gateways at east, north and south. It was a small sarai at one point of time, but with the new huge structure, there is little space left to enjoy the old structure. All the rooms are locked, but what is cute is that they have built pigeon coops along the walls on top. It looks very neat, and you can hear a pigeon coo or see it flying off or trying to get in.

The mosque is adorned with a lavish use of cut-plaster and beautifully ornamented-cornices. The prayer hall overlooks an enclosed courtyard with an imposing entrance on the eastern side is rectangular in shape. Its roof is supported by elephant trunk, like projecting brackets, which support sharp capitals set in lotus cups. The sarai around the mosque has a series of open and screened arches. The main eastern gateway has a beautiful parapet with four minarets, each decorated with a series of beaded mouldings.

Some of the few cities which have still kept its cultural heritage well preserved is Hyderabad. A visit to this old city summons nostalgia among the old residents of the city. 

The buildings, monuments, the mosques and the temples all speak of the rich history that led to their existence. One of the biggest and the oldest Masjids in Hyderabad, the Jama Masjid is the ideal place to go, to explore Islam. 

It rises with its majestic white towers just a few meters above the Charminar. Jama Masjid is one of the most popular mosques in Hyderabad and is visited by a large number of Muslims every year.

It is indeed one of the most attractive examples of Muslim architecture. The Jama Masjid is located only a few kilometers away from the Charminar in Hyderabad.

This Masjid was also famous for its Islamic education and a monastery in olden times Hyderabad. Now this school does not exist anymore in its premises. Muslims, in very large numbers, visit this mosque for worship and treat it in high esteem.
History

Architecture
Jama Masjid is a majestic form of Islamic architecture. The beautiful white towers of the mosque can be seen from far away. It is a beautiful blend of Persian and Arabic architecture.

There is symmetry in everything in the old mosque and it is decorated with limestone plaster, which probably is why the mosque still stands for us to write about. Another story says that after the fall of Golconda, the Masjid was practically abandoned till the area became a jagir of Nawab Arastu Jah Mushir ul Mulk, when the Prime Minister of Nizam Ali Khan granted it to him in 1795.

People soon started occupying the empty spaces near the mosque and now it is a very crowded locality. Talk of open space is now only imaginary. Way back in 1951, one of the minarets had bent and apparently was repaired. 

There is an urgent need for repairs to the old mosque to keep it intact and appreciate the historical architecture and values. Once you step out of the mosque, you go back to hustle and bustle of the main road, crowded with vehicles, shops and people.

Architecture

The two minars on top of the mosque are quite the signature and Sastry waxes eloquent, "The two main minars are raised over a three feet high plinth and embellished with floral and wavy designs in stucco. The capital is then divided into six divisions of different designs like beads, petals and finally with a row of drops below the parapet."

The masjid seems to be held by two huge pillars made of stucco, but the pieces are falling off. A net has been placed to save people from injury. The new structure tries to copy the design of the pillar, but it is not even worth a mention. The mosque is state protected and some of the old arches have still been retained, though not much care is being taken of this old structure.

The mosque itself is cool and, to quote Sastry: "The roof of the prayer hall is supported by elephant trunk-like projecting brackets which support the short capitals, set in lotus cups. The prayer hall has ten bays with conical ceilings each supported by four arches. The mehraz is a vestibule with three arched openings on either side of the main arch and it is made of black basalt."

Timings: 4:30 AM to 9:45 PM

Address

Address: 337, 1-4-337, Bakaram Inside Rd, Musheerabad, Bakaram, Kavadiguda, Hyderabad, Telangana 500020, India

https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/current-affairs/030618/hyderabad-the-grandeur-of-qutb-mosque.html

http://www.discoveredindia.com/andhra-pradesh/attractions/mosques/jama-masjid-hyderabad.htm
https://www.indianholiday.com/tourist-attraction/hyderabad/mosques-in-hyderabad/jama-masjid.html

http://tourmet.com/jama-masjid-hyderabad/

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Hyderabad Mecca Masjid

The historic Hyderabad Mecca Masjid or Makkah Masjid is located adjacent to Charminar in a south-west direction in Hyderabad, Telangana State, India and is a state-protected monument.

Built with local granite, it finds place among largest mosques in India and is the most important and largest one in the city.

The construction of this mosque started in the year 1614 by Sultan Muhammad Qutb Shah and was completed in 1693 by Aurangzeb. The mosque has a length of 225 feet and is 180 feet wide with a height of 75 feet. The roof is rested on 15 arches.”

Seventeenth-century French traveler, Jean-Baptiste Tavernier (1605–1689) , was in Hyderabad when the magnificent Mecca Masjid was undergoing construction. Awestruck by the magnificence of the architecture, he had noted in his travelogue that “it is about 50 years since they began to build a splendid pagoda in the town which will be the grandest in all India when it is completed.” The mosque was finally constructed in 1693.

The mosque contains the tombs of the Nizams of the Asaf Jahi dynasty from 1803 onwards. This is a view of the main facade with its five arched entrances. The prayer hall contains five aisles, three bays deep. The cicular corner minars, with octagonal balconies, are small in height; they were never carried above parapet level. The capping domes were added later by the Mughals.

Large enough to accommodate 10,000 worshipers, this beautiful mosque's 15 enormous arches and pillars were each wrought from single slabs of black granite dragged to the site by huge cattle trains reputedly consisting of up to 1,400 bulls. Taking its name from the bricks above the central gate that were brought here from Mecca, this impressive complex features highlights such as its main gateway, huge plaza, a large manmade pond, and a room that houses the hair of Prophet Mohammed.

Other notable features include inscriptions from the Quran above many of the arches and doors, the exquisite roof of the main hall, the cornices around the entire mosque structure, and the floral motifs and friezes over the arches.

The mosque has a length of 225 feet and is 180 feet wide with a height of 75 feet. The name is derived from the Grand Mosque in Mecca on which it is modeled. The hall has a dimension of 67 metres x 54 metres x 23 metres. The roof is rested on 15 arches.

There is a high blocking wall on the western side for Mehrab. It has two huge octagonal columns, which are created from a single piece of granite. This is inturn topped by an arched gallery crowned by a dome. This mosque can accommodate 10,000 worshipers at any time.


It is located two hundred yards from Charminar. The mosque was believed to have used bricks during its construction where brought from Mecca. A room in the courtyard is believed to house a sacred relic of the prophet.

According to history, Sultan Muhammad Qutub Shah invited the entire devout religious elders in the city to lay the foundation stone but as no one had come forward, Sultan Muhammad himself volunteered to lay foundation and it is said that he never missed his midnight prayer in life right from the age of 12.

Visitors coming to Charminar also visit the holy mosque, which lends a divine aura to the Muslim worshippers in the old city of Hyderabad.

Mecca Masjid lies in disrepair as chunk of plaster peels away

It is imposing. It is historic. And it is decaying. Mecca Masjid, one of the oldest mosque, indicating that the government has the preservation of heritage structures at the bottom of its agenda, a chunk of plaster at the historic Mecca Masjid complex peeled away on account of continued negligence.
Masjid officials who did not wish to be identified said that the canopy has been in bad shape for many years. The canopy, they added, is in need of immediate repairs

Shopping Tourists can enjoy unlimited shopping close to Mecca Masjid. Laad Bazaar is a very old market, located on one of the four major thoroughfares emerging from the historic Charminar. Laad Bazaar is a major market for bangles, semi-precious stones, pearls, jewellery, silverware, bidri ware, saris lacquer bangles studded with stones etc.

Renovation
The Telangana government sanctioned in 2017 a budget of Rs 8.5 crore for works. The Department of Heritage took up restoration works with the help of private firms.

Feb 3, 2023 : Hyderabad's Mecca Masjid facelift underway, set to be ready by Ramzan month?

Timings All Days of the Week - 4:00 am – 9:30 pm

18 May 2007: The Mecca Masjid blast occurred on 18 May 2007 around 1:15 PM inside the Mecca Masjid, (or "Makkah Masjid") a mosque located in the old city area of Hyderabad, capital of the Indian state of Telangana located very close to Charminar. The blast was caused by a cellphone-triggered pipe bomb placed near the place where ablutions are performed. Two further live IEDs were found and defused by the police. Sixteen people were reported dead in the immediate aftermath, of whom five were killed by the police firing after the incident while trying to quell the mob.

On 16 April 2018, the NIA Court acquitted all 11 who were accused in the blasts, citing lack of evidence
Sources

http://www.telanganatourism.gov.in/partials/destinations/heritage-spots/hyderabad/mecca-masjid.html


http://www.planetware.com/tourist-attractions/india-ind.htm


http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/Mecca-Masjid-lies-in-disrepair-as-chunk-of-plaster-peels-away/articleshow/53497362.cms

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Budhism in Telangana

Buddhism is a religion and dharma that encompasses a variety of traditions, beliefs and spiritual practices largely based on teachings attributed to the Buddha.

Buddhism originated in India sometime between the 6th and 4th centuries BCE, from where it spread through much of Asia, whereafter it declined in India during the middle ages.

Two major extant branches of Buddhism are generally recognized by scholars: Theravada (Pali: "The School of the Elders") and Mahayana (Sanskrit: "The Great Vehicle").

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Nelakondapalli

Nelakondapalli is a town and a mandal headquarters in Khammam district, Telangana, India, located at a distance of 21 km from Khammam.

Nelakondapalli is a historic site, which includes a mud fortification wall that covers 100 acres. Excavations by archaeologists have unearthed the foundations of viharas, cisterns, wells, one Mahastupa, terracotta idols, a bronze idol of Lord Buddha and a miniature stupa carved in limestone, and other historic materials from third and fourth centuries. Archaeological sites of historical importance dating back to the days of Mahabharata such as Virataraju Dibba and Keechaka Gundam are located within one and a half kilometer from Nelakondapalli. The relics, which were found at this place, strengthen the belief that it was a prominent place right from ancient times.

Nelakondapalli also has ancient temples like three Shiva temples as well as two Vaishnava temples. The Dusshera festival celebrations in Nelakondapalli attract devotees from other places. 

Nelakondapalli is also the birthplace of Kancharla Gopanna, popularly called Bhakta Ramadas. Bhakta Ramadas Memorial Building was constructed here at Sri Bhaktha Ramadasu’s birth place in 1955, which is now called Bhakta Ramadasu Dhyana Mandiram is run by Sri Seeteramachandra Swamy Devastanam, Bhadrachalam from 1983. Sri Ramanavami is celebrated with pomp and gaiety at Bhaktaramadas Dhyana Mandiram with arrangements made by Bhadrachalam Sri Rama temple and the local devotees. Annually, Sri Bhaktha Ramadas memorial festival is organised between 28th April and 2nd May. Nelakondapalli is located at a busy junction on the way from Khammam to Kodad and Kusumanchi. 

Tourists can use buses and cars from Nelakondapalli to nearby historical sites like Bodulabanda, Anantanagar, Aregudem and Kattukachavaram.

Nelakondapalli can be reached by road from Khammam, which is nearly 20 km away. Khammam is connected to Hyderabad, the capital city of Telangana, located at a distance of approximately 195 km, through road and rail transport.

There are few eateries on the way to Nelakondapalli. Good restaurants are available at Khammam.

There are few local made handicrafts and idols of Hindu gods which shoppers can buy here.

Khammam town is suitable for accommodation with many private lodges and hotels.

http://www.telanganatourism.gov.in/partials/destinations/heritage-spots/khammam/nelakondapalli.html

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Pazzur

The archaeology officials excavating the early historic site located between Pazzur-Yarragaddagudem

villages in Tipparthy Mandal, Nalgonda District in Telangana State  and unearthed one copper and two lead coins probably belonging to Satavahana and post-Satavahana period.

The coins belonged to Mahatalavara, feudal lords who ruled parts of Telangana under Satavahana

“Mahatalavara, a feudatory family that ruled parts of Telangana under Satavahana and also during post-Satavahana period, had minted these coins, the archaeology officials said.

The archaeologists identified the coin belongs to Mahatavalaras since the two lead coins were having horse symbol on obverse side. They could not identify the symbol on other side of these coins. The copper coin was rusted and they could not identify anything on it.

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Kotilingala Fort & Temple

Kotilingala is a historical site nestled amid huge hillocks and thick green cover on the banks of the Godavari River, Velgatur Mandal, Jagtial district of the Indian state of Telangana.

Archaeological discoveries at Kotilingala indicate that it was an important town in ancient town, during the period of the Assaka mahajanapada and the Satavahanas, is a treat for pilgrims.

The site has a mud fort with several gates and running 1054 metres long and 330 metres wide. A watch tower located in the south-eastern corner measures 11.5 * 10.55 m.

Ancient pottery, beads, bricks querns, and other artifacts have been found at the site. 

Two hoards of punch-marked coins attributed to 2nd and 3rd centuries BCE have been found at the site. These coins were issued by Gobhada and Samagopa, who are believed to be local pre-Satavahana rulers.

The mud fortification, protected by a stream on its east and the Godavari river on its west, indicate its high political and commercial significance.

The archaeological evidence at Kotilingala suggests existence of long-distance trade.

Coins of Satavahana kings have also been found at Kotilingala. A few of these are copper and potin coins bearing the legend "Rano Siri Chimuka Satavahanasa". Some scholars such as A. M. Sastry and K. D. Bajpai have identified the issuer of these coins with Simuka, who is considered as the founder of the Satavahana dynasty based on the Puranic genealogies. However, others such as P. L. Gupta and I. K. Sarma have argued that the Kotilingala coins belonged to a later ruler with a similar or same name have disputed this identification. P.V.P. Sastry, who first discovered these coins and attributed them to Simuka in 1978, also changed his view and later stated that Chimuka or Chhimuka of Kotilingala was not same as the Simuka mentioned in Naneghat inscription.

Other coins include those issued by Kanha and Satakarni. The inscriptions of the early Satavahanas have been found only in present-day Maharashtra (at Nashik and Naneghat), based on which western Deccan has been proposed as the original home of the Satavahanas. 

However, the discovery of coins at Kotilingala and other sites in present-day Andhra Pradesh and Telangana has prompted some historians such as M. Rama Rao to theorize that the eastern Deccan was also a part of the early Satavahana territory. V. V. Krishna Sastry theorized that the site was once a stronghold of the early Satavahanas.

 D. R. Reddy and S. Reddy proposed that Kotilingala was the original homeland of the Satavahanas. However, the Satavahana coin samples from Kotilingala are small in size, and it is not known where these coins were minted. S. Chattopadhyaya argues that coins can travel via trade, and this is not conclusive evidence of the early Satavahana presence in eastern Deccan.

The State government has decided to construct a protection wall along the shores of river Godavari to protect the site from submergence under the backwaters of the Sripada Yellampalli project.

There were transportation facilities to the towns located on the bank of the river Godavari such as Godavarikhani, Jagtial, Mancherial, and Karimnagar.

It is also a Hindu Pilgrimage Site with traditional Shiva temple and the Koteswara Siddeshwara Temple.

The traditional Sri Koteswara Siddeshwara Swamy Devasthanam temple with picturesque background is about 60 km from the Karimnagar.

A good black-topped road from Karimnagar to Rayapatnam takes the pilgrims to the temple in Velgatur mandal. A three-km drive from the main road takes one to the temple.

Legend has it that sages used to meditate in the caves adjoining the hillocks called ‘Munula Gutta’ and visit the banks of the Godavari for bathing. The sages decided to construct a temple and asked Lord Hanuman to get a Siva Lingam. When Lord Hanuman failed to come on time, the sages installed a Siva linga made of sand granules.

By the time Lord Hanuman arrived the Siva lingam was completed leaving the former infuriated. Locals say, Hanuman was pacified and people were asked to first offer prayers to the lingam brought by Hanuman and later to the lingam made with sand granules. According to temple priest Sanjay Sharma, newly-wedded couples offer prayers at this shrine for happy family, good siblings and prosperity.

Koti Lingala has a hoary past as the Satavahana kings used the Godavari for navigation and transportation of goods. It is evident from the wharf on the banks of the river. Buddhism and Jainism also prevailed in the region on “Munula Gutta’ as was evident during the excavations made by the State Archaeology Department.

Pilgrims planning to visit the temple can stay in hotels that suit everybody’s pocket. There is not enough accommodation in the temple nor does the place have good restaurants. Some pilgrims prefer to visit the shrine and cook food in the nearby woods and return in the evening. It is also one of the convenient places during the Godavari Pushkarams because of less flow of pilgrims.

Sources

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/Koti-Lingala-a-major-pilgrim-destination/article11148987.ece

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Koti_Lingala

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Buddhavanam or Sri Parvatarama

Shri Parvata Aarama project which is under execution seeks to capture the Buddhist heritage of the Telugu land and has the potential to swing Telangana on to the centre-stage of culture tourism. 

Graphical representation of the proposed Buddhist Theme Park

It is appropriate that a project of this magnitude is coming up on the soil of Telangana as it is to the Asmaka country (environs of Bodhan), Buddhism came first in Dakshinapatha during the life time of Buddha himself. By now the story of Bavari, an ascetic who lived on the banks of Godavari in 6th century BC in an ashram practicing traditional rituals is well-known. SuttanipataTripitakaShravasti arhants anagami, arahant.

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Kanakai Waterfalls

The Kanakai waterfall is located near a small village called Girnoor of the Bazarhatnoor Mandal, Adilabad District in Telangana State.

The falls is also called as Kanakadurga waterfalls. The place has a place in the ancient history as well. People from nearby villages come to this place to offer their prayers to Goddess Kanaka Durga, in the temple.

The drive to the temple resembles a way paved to reach paradise. The location brings you in direct contact with luscious grasslands and fields. 

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Sri Komaram Bheem Project

The Sri Komaram Bheem Project is a Medium Reservoir has been built across Peddavagu River, a

tributary of the Pranahita River. It is located at Ada village, Asifabad Mandal, Adilabad District, Telangana.

The project named after Komaram Bheem (22 October 1901 – 19 October 1940), was a tribal leader who fought against the Asaf Jahi Dynasty for the liberation of Hyderabad State. Komaram Bheem openly fought against the ruling Nizam government in a guerrilla campaign. He defied courts, laws, and any other form of Nizam authority, living off the sustenance of the forest. He took up arms against Nizam Nawab's soldiers, and fought Babi Jhari until his last breath.

This Project proposed to supply water to Asifabad, Wankidi, Kaghaznagar, and Sirpur mandals more than 45,000 in acres. But currently, the project is providing irrigation water to about 20,000 acres under its left canal 35 km. Right canal will provide irrigation water to about another 25000 acres.

Eco-tourism can be promoted in the pristine natural forests, hillocks, valleys of Kumram Bheem district

All the pain of an arduous 50 km bumpy ride on the Utnoor-Asifabad road vanishes at the sight of the blue waters of the Kumram Bheem Reservoir, located some seven km from Asifabad town in Kumram Bheem district. Most travellers stop by to take in the beauty of the lake and the hillocks beyond to help them overcome the fatigue of the journey.

However, no one stays there for more than a few minutes for the simple reason that there is no place to relax on the shores of the picturesque reservoir. At best, the visitors can approach the water near Ada village where the fishers have made a clearing.

Replicating the Kadem Reservoir model, where the Telangana Tourism department has cottages and operates boats, may not require heavy investment. There is high potential for developing tourism in the newly-carved out Kumram Bheem district, as a large area between Asifabad and Jainoor encompasses numerous hillocks, hill streams and valleys.

The tourism potential and development came up for mention at the recent public meeting held at Jodeghat in Kerameri mandal in connection with the 76th anniversary of martyrdom of Gond leader Kumram Bheem.

Some speakers suggested development of a golf course, a polo ground on the high plateau besides developing adventure tourism. Hyderabad builder, K. Ashwin Rao, a well known eco and adventure tourism enthusiast, rubbished the idea of a golf course and polo ground and favoured keeping the forest intact.

“The Jodeghat valley, is best suited for trekking as the hillocks here are not very high and the forests are thick. Kerala State’s Munnar model of adventure tourism can be implemented here as it will involve local communities too,” he suggested.

“The forest terrain in erstwhile Adilabad district is unique in Telangana State. Trekkers, being a disciplined lot will ensure the nature remains pristine, ,” he added.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/Picturesque-but-no-place-to-stay-for-visitors/article16076579.ece

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Kerameri Cave Temples

Located in idyllic settings in Komaram Bheem Asifabad district, they attract devout Adivasis in

droves. The large and scenic reservoir of the Kumram Bheem project also offers a perfect getaway for the visitors.

Komaram Bheem Asifabad is set to unravel the mystique of tribal culture and their ethnicity as the religious season for Adivasis has just begun. It is time for the different sects and sub sects of the aboriginal population in this district to worship respective clan deities and other gods and large groups can be seen journeying in bullock carts and on foot to temples located inside the forests and over the hills.

For those who consider the culture of the aboriginal people as something of a mystery, the three equally mysterious cave temples of Adilabad have much to offer by way of revelations. Visitors can actually see and feel that the religious practices of the Adivasis which seem to be superstitious on the surface are actually connected with understanding nature itself.

The three cave temples are Jangubai temple , Bhuyari Pochamma temple and Siddheshwara temple.

Jangubai temple located in the hilly wilderness of Shankarloddi in Kerameri mandal.

The Jangubai temple is by far the most famous among the Adivasis, the Gonds and Pardhans, who visit it as part of a pilgrimage in the Pushya masam coinciding with December-January.

The devout among Gonds observe Jangubai deeksha in the Pushya month and visit the cave temple in large number towards the end of the deeksha. A host of ethnic religious rituals and rites can be seen at the scenic location, which also boasts of a water body at the foot of the hillock.

Bhuyari Pochamma temple located on a hillock on the banks of the Kumram Bheem project reservoir near Manikguda in Asifabad mandal

At the Bhuyari Pochamma temple, the Kolams take part in rituals associated with thanksgiving to the gods. Though many of the Adivasis visit the temple every Sunday, the deity is especially worshipped at the beginning of monsoon and on Dasara.

The large and scenic reservoir of the Kumram Bheem project also offers a perfect getaway for the visitors. The friendly fishermen will offer a ride in the cool water of the reservoir on their surprisingly stable rafts made of thermocol or even a piece of their roasted fish.

Siddheshwara temple located on Penchikalpetgutta hillock in Bejjur mandal.

Reaching the Siddheshwara temple also involves braving the difficulties posed by difficult and roadless terrain as the other two.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/cave-temples-of-adilabad/article6708910.ece

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Ganagapur Temple

Ganagapur Lord Venkateshwara temple in Gangapur is located in Gangapur village in Rebbena

Mandal , Komaram Bheem Asifabad district in Telangana State, India.

This temple was built in the 16th century by a VishwaBrahamin Mummadi pothaji and large number of devotees come from Maharashtra, Chattisgad and Telangana to Gangapur jatra held on magha pournami every year.

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Jodeghat

Jodeghat is a small Village/hamlet in Kerameri Mandal in Komaram Bheem Asifabad District of

Telangana State, India where where legendary Gond leader Kumaram Bheem had attained martyrdom in 19th October, 1940.

The Jal, Jangal and Jameen arch is coming up at Jodeghat where Adivasi legendary Komaram Bheem died fighting with Nizam forces for sovereignty of 12 villages and land, forest and water in Kerameri mandal in 1940. Jal, Jangal and Jameen arch is being constructed as it reflects the aspirations of the Adivasis. 

The state government is developing the area as a tourist and historical place by constructing tribal museum, amphitheatre, multi-media hall and Komaram Bheem memorial to attract tourists.

Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao may inaugurate the arch and lay foundation stone to a park on the occasion of 75th death anniversary of Komaram Bheem on October 27.

The project is being taken up at a cost of Rs 25 crore and sanction was given for Rs 18 crore under first phase. A video album was shot at Jodeghat to popularise the project to attract tourists to develop the place under tourist circuit. The Department of the Tourism is planning to develop the places.

The Principal Secretary Tourism, B.P. Acharya on Friday said the government was contemplating to start a light and sound show at the historic Jodeghat village.

Kumra Manikrao of Jodeghat said for the first time some people are looking like foreigners with grey and white hair came to their gudem and it was cultural shock for many of the villagers present on seeing the dressings, behaviour and body language of foreigners and added that they spoke in English but villagers and one person came with them translated into Telugu.

The foreigners took photographs with villagers and the villagers laughed at them as many of them including women wore shorts. They captured the entire area of Jodeghat and its surroundings of pristine jungles by using Helicopter camera and there was a photo shoot.

Komaram Baderao expressed concern about their indigenous culture and traditions and expressed anxiety about coming days saying that they don’t know what more they were going to see in future after Jodeghat was fully developed as tourist place. Most of Adivasis of the Jodeghat were clueless about what was coming up at their village and some of them say that their leader Komaram Bheem’s puthla (statue) was coming up.

Adivasi leaders have started expressing fear of penetration of non-tribals into interior Jodeghat area and will exploit natural resources in the forest just after project was developed as tourist place.

Adivasis also expressed fear of non-tribals and outsiders will also exploit the gullible Adivasi women in the guise of creating employment under tourism development like in the Araku Valley which was a ere in Andhra Pradesh.    

Jodeghat is surrounded by Jiwati Mandal towards North , Jainoor Mandal towards west , Sirpur (U) Mandal towards west , Asifabad Mandal towards East . 

Kagaznagar , Rajura , Chandrapur , Bellampalle are the nearby Cities to Jodeghat.  

The stretch of road which leads to the village of Jodeghat will soon become a seven-meter-wide blacktopped facility as part of the State government’s plan to develop this place into a tourist spot

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/plans-to-boost-tourism-in-jodeghat/article7140233.ece

http://www.deccanchronicle.com/151024/nation-current-affairs/article/jal-jungle-jameen-arch-jodeghat

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