Warangal Fort

The Warangal Fort is a prominent landmark of the Telangana state and is an appropriate example of architectural excellence and historical richness of the yore. The Warangal fort is situated in Warangal. Locals believe the city was built on a single rock in the medieval era. Every year thousands of enthusiastic tourists’ flock in to witness the historical and architectural marvel of this region. The major highlights of Warangal fort are the four ornamental gates, which are now the official emblem of the Telangana state. Despite being in ruins, the fort still refelects the historical grandeur and architectural preeminence of the Kakatiya Dynasty. The ruins hardly resemble any fort as the typical grand walls, cannons, the Darbaar Halls of the rulers are missing. However, what you can witness is the remnants of one of the most invincible fortifications of the medieval era.

The fabulous fort was built by Ganapatideva, and after he died in 1262, his daughter Rudrama Devi took over the charge of the construction and the entire kingdom eventually. However, King Prataparudra II, who was also known as Rudradeva II and the last ruler of Kakatiya Kingdom, finished the Warangal Fort. Two decades later, the kingdom fell into the Mughal's hands and it was conquered by the Sultans of Delhi. In 1309, Alauddin Khilji had launched an attack on the fort during the rule of Prataparudra II. As a result, the fort couldn't resist the attack of Qutub Shahi Dynasty, and later it was invaded by the Hyderabad Nizams.

The timings to enter the Warangal Fort is between 10 AM to 7 PM. There are certain charges levy on the entry of the fort. For Indians, the price is INR 15, forforeigners, the price is INR 200. If you are keen on carrying a video camera with you, then, the charges for it is INR 25.

Apart from admiring the architectural excellence of the Warangal Fort, you can wrap up your day by enjoying the Sound & Light Show at Warangal Fort. The first show is organized between 6:30 PM and 7:20 PM and is usually showcased in Telugu. The second show is from 7:30 PM to 8:20 PM and is showcased in English. The sound and light show is a treat for the eyes, letting the visitors know about the architectural and historical significance of the state.

Flaunting the architectural excellence of the 12th century, the Warangal Fort is one of its kind. The fort was built on Thorean architectural style. The 'Gateway of Glory' was the major highlight of the fort. This was the main gateway built of four elaborately carved pillars constructed out of a single rock. These majestic gateways were also known as Kirti Toranas and stood as a symbol of South Indian architectural style. However, the major attraction of this glorious fort is Swayambhu Devalayam, a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva built in 1162 AD. This medieval temple is located right in the middle of the fort and is flanked by awe-inspiring sculptures. The fort also houses another Shiva temple, Shambhulingeshwara Temple, located opposite to the Open-air Museum. A huge Nandi statute faces the Shiva Temple. Warangal fort is built of 3-layered fortification. The fort was protected by three circular walls, offering robust defence against the invaders.

• Pakhal Lake – Located 50 km away from Warangal city is the beautiful Pakhal Lake which is spread over an area of 30 sq km. The lake is set amidst the lush green forests and hills, and forms a picturesque view.
• Thousand Pillar Temple – The Thousand Pillar Temple is an ancient temple that is located away in a small town named Hanamakonda in the vibrant state of Telangana. As suggested by the name itself, the temple has over one thousand pillars. Constructed in a star-shaped architecture, the Thousand Pillars Temple is a popular pilgrimage centre which welcomes more than 1000 devotees almost every day. The temple also contains a huge monolith Nandi, made up of black basalt stone.
• Ramappa Temple – Constructed in the architectural style unique to South India during the Kakatiya rule in the 12th century, The Ramappa Temple is revered a lot by the Hindu community and is considered to be the greatest gift to its future generations by the Kakatiya Kings.
• Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary – Surrounded with a regal air it borrows from older times is the Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary or Eturnagaram forest wildlife refuge which is located nearby Warangal town.
• Bhadra Kali Temple – Built in the 8th century, the Bhadra Kali Temple is an example of the rich heritage and elaborate architecture of the Kakatiya Dynasty.
• Padmakshi Temple – The temple is dedicated to Goddess Padmakshi. The temple dates back to the early 12th century. The Annakonda Pillar of the temple is a quadrangular pillar that stands at the entrance of the structure and is a beautiful attraction.
• Laknavaram Lake – Located in Govindaraopet mandal in the Mulugu district of Telangana, Laknavaram is a scenic manmade lake that boasts of immense natural beauty in the form of forests and hills. It is a popular for picnic, boating and offers stunning sunset views.
• Mini Zoo – Built in 1985, Mini Zoo is a famous attraction expanding over 50 acres of land with numerous species of animals, reptiles and birds thriving in a beautifully maintained green zone. However, the zoo has now been converted into a National Zoological Park.
• Govindarajula Gutta – A hill surrounded by dense forestation, Govindarajula Gutta is a treat for nature lovers. The place offers a breathtaking view of the city from the top and also has a small temple dedicated to Lord Rama is situated on it.
• Rayaparthy Shiva Temple – An 18th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Rayaparthy Shiva Temple is anarchitectural treat that has inscriptions and beautiful carvings amidst the scenic beauty of the location.

• Hotel Prime Inn – Experience a comfortable stay at the stunning property of Hotel Prime Inn. The hotel is equipped with all the necessary amenities.
• Sahasara DLA – A budget-friendly hotel that poses as a good choice for travellers who are looking for a 3-star property in Warangal.
• Hotel Sushmitha Inn – Located in Warangal, Hotel Sushmitha Inn is a -star property that renders the best view of the city. The guests are provided with all the comfort of their needs.
• Vishnu Residency Warangal – Vishnu Residency is definitely a home away from home for guests who are looking for an exceptionally comfortable stay.

The best time to visit Warangal is between the months of September and April.

• By Flight –The nearest airport from Warangal is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad. The airport is well connected to the other major cities of the world.
• By Train – Warangal is well-connected to all the major Indian cities, therefore having its own railway station facilitates commuting the place by train easily.
• By Road – If you plan on reaching Warangal Fort by road, then, there are regular buses (both private and state government run) that heads to Warangal. However, you could drive there yourself too.