Telangana360

Kota Gullu – Ganapeshwara Temple Complex Ghanapuram, in Jayashankar Bhupalpally district of Telangana, is a historically significant village renowned for its Kota Gullu temple complex, showcasing exquisite Kakatiya architecture. Built in the 13th century, this site reflects the grandeur of the Kakatiya dynasty, with intricately carved red sandstone temples, fortified enclosures, and beautifully designed pillared halls. The complex offers insights into the spiritual, cultural, and socio-political life of medieval Telangana, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and spiritual travelers alike. Its proximity to Warangal and other natural attractions like waterfalls and wildlife sanctuaries adds to its appeal as a cultural tourism hotspot. Temple Complex & Architecture The complex consists of nearly 22 temples enclosed within a stone boundary. The main temple, Ganapeswaralayam , is dedicated to Lord Shiva and faces east. A grand 60-pil...

Samakka Sarakka Temple – Medaram, Mulugu District Samakka Sarakka Jathara, also called Medaram Jathara, is a biannual tribal festival in Telangana that has grown into one of India’s largest pilgrimages. Held every two years at Medaram village in Tadvai Mandal, deep in the forests of Mulugu district, it draws millions of devotees from across Telangana and neighboring states like Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh. During the festival, Medaram’s population skyrockets from fewer than 300 villagers to over 3.5 million pilgrims. The festival honors the heroic Koya tribal queen Samakka and her daughter Sarakka, who resisted the Kakatiya rulers from Warangal (1000–1380 A.D.). Today, devotees from diverse backgrounds come to pay homage, inspired by their courage and sacrifice. Historical Significance The Telangana region has long celebrated the legacy of Sammakka and Sarakka as symbols of defiance and resilience. Their heroism inspired people’s movements against ...

Location: Koyaveerapuram G, Wazeed Mandal, Mulugu district, Telangana, India. Bogatha Waterfall is the second highest waterfall in Telangana. Situated in a dense forest between Kaleswaram and Bhadrachalam, it is formed by the Chikupally Vagu stream which merges with the Godavari River. The waterfall drops over 30 feet in multiple parallel streams into a large natural pool, making it ideal for safe swimming and picnics. Nearby, there is a temple dedicated to Bogateswara Swamy, and the upper part of the falls can be accessed from here. Since motorable roads are limited, visitors must trek part of the distance, offering opportunities for adventure and forest exploration. Bogatha Waterfall – second highest waterfall in Telangana, surrounded by dense forests Travel Distances 30 km from Eturnagaram 120 km from Bhadrachalam 140 km from Warangal 329 km from Hyderabad (reduced from 440 km due to the new Eturnagaram bridge on NH163) 133 km via NH163 from Warangal – approx. 3...

Explore Telangana's Oldest Sanctuary Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary is located at Eturnagaram village in Mulugu district, Telangana, India. Established on 30th January 1952 by the erstwhile Hyderabad Government, it is one of the oldest sanctuaries in the state. The sanctuary is primarily plain with about one-fourth hilly terrain, and the Godavari River flows through it, enhancing the scenic beauty and supporting rich biodiversity. The sanctuary spans an area of about 812 km². It is home to endangered species such as Tigers, Panthers, and Gaur, as well as Sambar, Cheetal, Nilgiri, and Blackbuck. Its diverse ecosystems include dry deciduous forests, riverine areas, and scrublands, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and researchers alike. Flora and Fauna Flora Eturnagaram Sanctuary is rich in plant diversity, with teak as the dominant species. Other important trees include thiruman, maddi, bamboo, mdhuca, terminalia, and pterocarpus. The forest also contains medicinal pla...

Scenic Lake and Adventure Destination in Mulugu, Telangana Laknavaram Lake is situated in Mulugu district about 90 km from Warangal, 30 km from Ramappa Temple, 7 km from Govindaraopet, and 5 km from Chalvai. Tourists from Warangal take NH 163 towards Mulugu, then turn right into the forest near Chalvai to reach the lake. Surrounded by green hills forming a bowl-like structure, this pristine lake is also known as ‘Laknavaram Cheruvu’. The lake covers 10,000 acres, holds 2.135 TMCFT of water, and irrigates over 3,500 acres of land. Built by the Kakatiya kings, it features 13 islands and a 160-meter-long hanging bridge connecting three islands. A lake-view resort with amenities makes it a popular weekend and monsoon destination. Activities Boating to explore islands and lake corners Kayaking for adventure enthusiasts Bird watching for migratory flocks Trekking trails around the lake and nearby waterfalls Photography and wildlife spotting, including monkeys and migratory birds ...

Mallur Hemachala Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple (photo credit: provided image) Location: Mallur Gutta and Fort are located near Mallur village, Mangapet Mandal, Mulugu district in Telangana, India. It is said to be bigger than Warangal and Golconda forts. About the Fort A sprawling ancient fort in the region is the massive 8 km-radius fort wall with seven entry points dating back to the Satavahana period. Locally known as Mallur Fort, located 4 km inside the forests near Mallur village of Mangapet mandal, Mulugu district, the fort is on the banks of the river Godavari adjacent to the Eturunagaram–Bhadrachalam highway. “Normally, forts are two to four km in radius. But this fort wall has a radius of about 8 km, much bigger than Warangal and Golconda forts.” Hemachala Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple Mallur Hemachala Lakshmi Narsimha Swamy Temple is the most ancient architectural divine ensemble which is located on the Mallur Ghat in the Mangapet mandal of Mulugu...

Devuni Gutta temple, Kothur (Photo: Deccan Chronicle) Location: Devuni Gutta temple is located about 2.5 km from Kothur village, near Jangalapalli of Mulugu mandal in Mulugu district, Telangana. This hidden hill temple is known only to locals and lies deep inside a dense forest. The trail to reach it is as fascinating as the monument itself. About the Temple The temple stands on a hill locally called Devuni Gutta . One has to trek through a forest path that turns into a small stream halfway, creating a unique water trail for nearly a kilometer. The journey reveals small waterfalls and lush greenery along the way. Atop the hill sits a beautiful structure adorned with carvings on all four sides. The temple appears brick-built but is actually composed of sand–stone blocks plastered with lime mortar. Carvings depict sages, monks, dancers, and animals — though many have eroded over time. Historians estimate the temple to be over 2,000 years old . Locals recall th...

Pembarthi: The Village Where Brass Sings the Song of Kakatiyas Nestled within the Jangaon district of Telangana, the village of Pembarthi—often spelled Permbarti—is a humble locale with a towering reputation. It is a place where tradition is not merely preserved but actively forged, quite literally, in gleaming brass. World-famous for its intricate and exquisite brassware craftsmanship, Pembarthi is a testament to the enduring power of hereditary skill. The air here vibrates with the rhythmic clink and tap of mallets, as artisans transform dull brass sheets into fascinating and wonderful objects of art and utility, ranging from idols and figurines to utilitarian utensils and decorative pieces. In 2023, the village was celebrated for its sustainable development and tourism appeal, earning the Best Tourism Village award in the Silver Category. History and Heritage The craftsmanship of Pembarthi is a direct link to the glorious past of the region, specifically the Kakatiya dynasty. The fo...

On September 2, 1947, a patriotic desire to hoist national flag in Parkal, then a small village in Warangal district, had ended a brutal massacre committed by Razakars. Nizam’s men pumped bullets into people who had gathered in the town to hoist the tri-colour The memories of the carnage are still remembered by the elders who witnessed the incident at that time. The incident has been referred to as the ‘Jallianwala Bagh’ of the south by former Premier P V Narasimha Rao. It may be recalled that after Indian Independence on August 15, 1947, erstwhile Nizams of Hyderabad denied joining Indian Union and also enforced suppression against hoisting the tri-colour employing tyrannical army of Razakars. Anguished at not being allowed to hoist the national flag, the residents of Parkal and surrounding villages planned to raise the flag on September 2 to celebrate the Independence and gathered near a ground in Parkal. But an official of Nizams’ regime Ziauallah Khan cautioned the public to d...

History, Geography, Administration & Tourism Guide Mulugu is one of the newest districts of Telangana, formed on 17 February 2019 by bifurcating Jayashankar Bhupalpally district. The district headquarters is Mulugu town, located on NH 163. Quick Facts Formation date: 17 February 2019 Headquarters: Mulugu Area: 3,031 sq. km Population: ≈ 3 lakh (administrative estimate) Villages & habitations: ~335 habitations, 174 village panchayats Mandals: 9 Assembly seats: 1 (Mulugu) Geography of Mulugu District Mulugu district is located in the northern region of Telangana State and forms part of the forested and hilly belt of the state. It was carved out from the Jayashankar Bhupalpally district in 2019 and is bordered by several districts of Telangana as well as the state of Chhattisgarh to the northeast. Location & Boundaries Coordinates: Approximately 18.35°N latitude and 80.58°E longitude. Neighboring Districts: Jayashankar Bhupalpally...

Surendrapuri is a museum located in Yadadri Bhvanigiri district. This is a unique one-stop destination where you can see epitome of cultural, artistic and sculptural excellence. Kunda Satyanarayana Kaladhamam, one-of-its-kind mythological theme park. The other major attractions of this place are Nagakoti (101-feet Shiva Linga) and a temple of Panchamukhi Hanuman with Panchmukha Shiva and Lord Venketaswara.  A 60-feet double-sided Panchamukhi Hanuman and Shiva statue at the entrance catches the attention of visitors. A unique Navgraha Temple places different navagrahas in the relative positions. Astounding Vedic knowledge has been put into building this temple. KUNDA SATYANARAYANA KALADHAMAM Kunda Satyanarayana Kaladhamam is a spiritual and mythological awareness center where one can relive the ancient Indian epics. Most of the historic temples of India are recreated here. Visit Sapta Lokas for the immense feel of serenity amidst the nature’s beauty. This brings vibra...

The monolithic caves of Jain pantheon near Koyyur Village, Malharrao Mandal in the Jayashankar Bhupalpally district are set to hog the limelight with theForest Department making efforts to incorporate the structure into its ongoing eco-tourism programme. Situated on a hillock among scenic surroundings on the banks of river Manair, the caves stand out as an example of Indian rock-cut architecture. Hewn in solid sandstone precipice the caves testify the prevalence of Jainism in these parts during ancient times. Though the caves were found long ago, they remained uncared for. With an intention to draw public attention to these caves, Bhupalpally Forest Department officials are planning to lay pathways to ensure better connectivity to the caves called locally as ‘Nayanagulllu’. At a distance of two km there is a Nagulamma Temple which is frequented by devotees on weekends and on auspicious occasions. It is proposed to lay a pathway from the temple and from Mainar bridge near ...

Bhadrachalam is a key town of Pilgrimage importance located in the Bhadradri Kothagudem District of Telangana.  The temple town of Bhadrachalam is situated on the banks of Godavari River. It was part of East Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh till 1959. The town is synonymous for its famous temple devoted to Lord Rama. According to history, Paleolithic man had roamed the areas, which is called the lower Godavari valley that includes Bhadrachalam and its surroundings. Bhadrachalam town has a clearly documented history of Lord Sri Rama temple, which was constructed in the 17th Century CE. According to Mythology, the present town was once part of the Dandakaranya forest, which Lord Sri Rama, Sita and Lakshmana had visited during their exile also called vanavasam according to local parlance. The jungle which is now in the vicinity of temple was the place for Rama’s retreat and a place called Parnasala which is 32 km away was the location where Rama had built a dwelling for himself a...

Mettu Gutta (Rocksteps Hill) is a famous Hindu temple that is located in Madikonda. This place is also Known as Manigiri. The Linga in this temple has many similarities with Varanasi Visveswara. There are two temples on Mettu gutta. One temple is for Lord Shiva and other one is for Lord Sri Ram. Local people call this temple as Mettu Rama Lingeshwara swamy temple. Siva temple is constructed during the kaktiya regime. The temple is located on a hillock, there many small water bodies located with in the area, there are various rock formation which can be found near the site, which have very important significance. There are evidences that this temple is famous as early Vengi Chalukya dynasty period. Kings of Kakathiya dynasty established a fort in this place and build many temples in this hill during 1198 AD. There are is also a historical temple for Lord Sri Rama in this hill. Here the linga has emerged from ground in 45 degree angle and still raisin. The mountain top temple has a...

Kulpakji or Kolanupaka Jain Temple is a old Jain Temple of Mahavira located in kolanupaka village (also called as Kulpak), Alair Mandal, Yadadri Bhuvanagiri district in Telangana State, India. The 2nd century temple of Bhagwan Manikyaswamy, the first and foremost tirthankara out of the 24 tirthankaras of the Shwethamber Jain community, is also known as Rishabhdev or Adinath. The first Tirthankara in the Jain religion was Lord Rishabha, who is popularly known as Lord Adinath also. It is believed that original idol of Lord Adinath, locally known as Manikya Deva, made Kolanupaka its abode by itself. Besides the presiding deity or mulnayaka, Bhagwan Manikyaswamy, the architecturally beautiful ancient temple houses the precious jade idol of Bhagwan Mahavira, the 24th and last tirthankara, Neminatha and other Tirthankara idols belonging to the Shwethambar sect of the Jains who maintain the temple. Jains believe that 15 visits to Kulpak Tirtha on full moon days and performing seva, tapa and j...

Govindarajula Gutta is a holy place for the practitioners of the Hindu faith. A popular tourist attraction, there is a temple dedicated to Lord Ram at the top of the hill (‘Gutta’ in Telugu) while a temple in the name of the Lord’s most prominent devotee, Lord Hanuman is located under it. Steps that amount to a hundred in number are to be climbed in order to reach the top of the hill, and it is advisable to take extreme care as the steps are sculpted out of rock and quite risky to maneuver. During the Sree Rama Navami festival, Govindarajula Gutta sees its most popular period and throngs of devotees can be seen in the vicinity.  A huge Ratham (or Chariot) made of precious materials rests on top of the hill, and this is believed to have been built by the Hazaris of Warangal. http://www.yatrastotemples.com/sri-rama-temple-in-govindarajula-gutta-in-warangal/