Iconic Fortress of Kakatiya-Era
Telangana state, known for its range of tourist destinations is home to many heritage structures and prominent among them is Warangal fort. Warangal fort, which dates back to the 13th century, is located approximately 3 km away from the Railway station. Warangal is considered one of the best heritage cities of not just Telangana, but also India. It is located nearly 145 km away from the state capital city of Hyderabad.
The second largest city in Telangana, the city derives its name from the Telugu word Orugallu – ‘Oru’ meaning one and the word ‘gallu’ meaning stone. Hence, the city is also known as Ekasila Nagaram. It served as the capital for great Kakatiya rulers, between 12th and 14th centuries.
Other Attractions
The temple is highly revered in Telangana region and is currently undergoing a major revamp, in its new form as Yadadri. There are massive pillars, gopuram, sculptures and other mythological idols being erected, in tune with the great history and legacy of the shrine.
The Warangal Fort is laid out in three concentric circular walls featuring defensive fortifications. Along with the earthen wall and the moat, there is a fortified inner stone wall which is about 0.75 miles in diameter. The wall was built using dressed huge granite stone blocks of large dimensions. During the period of Rudrama Devi, the height of this wall was increased to more than 29 feet from the structure which was built earlier by Ganapati Deva. The walls were fortified with 45 large rectangular bastions measuring 40–60 feet. The fort has 18 stone steps which have been laid over a gradual slope built along the inner slopes of the earthen wall, that serves as easy access to the ramparts.
The central part of this fort is home to the ruins of a great Shiva temple with only freestanding entrance portals or gates seen currently on the four sides. There are many ruins here like wall slabs, brackets and ceiling panels, exhibited in an outdoor museum. There are several inscriptions on the ruins of the wall of this main temple, which records the gift of a Kakatiya king, on pillars as well as one a stone outside the fort, and at quite a few places, in Telugu language.
Telangana Tourism organizes regular sound and light shows at the spectacular Warangal fort. The highly popular and impressive sound & light show at Warangal fort reveals the grand history of the rulers of Kakatiya dynasty lasting for duration of 50 minutes in Telugu and English. The colourful laser lighting system, accompanied by an excellent sound track is a highlight of this show. The show leaves the audience mesmerized, taking them back to the historic era of Kakatiya’s. The sound and light shows organized at Warangal fort is indeed a visual delight, that testifies the architectural and historic pride of the state, especially Warangal region.
How to Reach
Warangal fort is located at a distance of 3-4 km from Warangal city, which is well connected by road and rail from Hyderabad, approximately 145 km away.
Where to Stay
Haritha Kakatiya Hotel in Warangal City is a popular accommodation choice for tourists visiting heritage city of Warangal and other close by tourist attractions.