Invaluable Legacy of the Kakatiya’s
The state of Telangana and particularly Warangal region in the Deccan plateau is home to the very classic and brilliant Kakatiya art. The Ramalingeswara Temple which is popularly known as the Ramappa temple is one such amazing piece of art that stands as a testimony of the royal Kakatiyas. The temple got its name Ramappa because of its chief sculptor Ramappa. It's probably the only temple in the country to be known by the name of its sculptor.
The medieval Deccan Ramappa Temple which dates back to 1213 AD, was built by the patronage of the Kakatiya ruler Ganapathi Deva under the authority of his Chief Commander Rudra Samani at the place known as Ranakude in the Atukuru province. The Ramappa temple is the right destination for people who admire architectural brilliance and wish to explore the panoramic view of true scenic beauty. The temple is situated in Palampet village of Venkatapur Mandal, in Mulug district. The Ramappa temple finds its hold on a 6 feet high platform on a cruciform plan. The temple's chamber is crowned with a shikharam and is surrounded by pradakshinapatha. At the entrance of the temple, we can find a Nandi mandapam. An imposing Nandi vigraham stands on it.
The Ramappa temple has been referred as the brightest star in the network of medieval temples in the Deccan region. You can reach the temple via a royal garden, which is now modified into a lawn with a path paved by trees. Another striking feature of this temple is that it is built with bricks that are so light that they can easily float on water. The temple which is situated in a valley took nearly 40 years to be completed. Elaborate carvings line the walls and also cover the pillars and ceilings of the temple. There are conservation efforts being undertaken at the Ramappa Temple and efforts are on to attain the prestigious UNESCO recognition for the heritage temple complex.
How to reach
Ramappa Temple is located at a distance of nearly 206 km from the capital city of Hyderabad. The destination is well accessible by road from Warangal.