The history of Telangana state is replete with tales of bravery of Kakatiya kings, reflected in the walls of the forts and palaces they had built. The strong ramparts of these forts still echo the age-old stories, while attracting tourists who visit these destinations to relive the region’s glorious history. The Ramagiri Khilla in Peddapallidistrict is one such impregnable fortress of the Kakatiya dynasty that stands tall even to this day. The Ramagiri fort is situated on the Karimnagar - Manthani highway, about 2 km from the village of Begumpet on a hillock which overlooks the spectacular confluence of Rivers - Manair and Godavari. The view from this hillock is beyond description in normal words.The fort is located on a picturesque hillock, and considered a key hot spot on the map of Telangana Tourism. The peaceful environment of this place has also earned another name called “Aramgiri”, meaning the hill of comfort.

History

Ramagiri Khilla was built during 12th century by the Kakatiyas rulers of Warangal. It was later controlled by the Qutub Shahi rulers from 1518 to 1687. In the year 1656, the ruler of Golconda, Abdullah Qutb Shah, entrusted the control of this fort to his son-in-law, who was one of Aurangzeb's sons.The fort went under the control of the British Rajin the year1791 and was finally controlled by the Asaf Jahis.

Features

The fort, built impressively in stone has many bastions, occupying a large area. The bastions are of octagonal shape and there are four forge-welded cannons stationed here on the masonry battlements which are of 12 meters in height, comprising a section of the fort walls. The mud plaster used in thick layers includes mud, reeds, lime, hair and even blood of animals.There are seven elaborate gateways, Chowkis, Elephant shed, Horse stable and numerous wells, called Topubavi, Pasarubavi, Haribavi, Nallakayyabavi, Achchammabavi and Ammagaribavi.

Mythological Significance

The fort is renowned for its mythological relics. It is widely believed that Pandavas spent some time here during the period of Vanavasam. Many believe that the footprints seen here are that of Lord Rama and Sita Devi. According to legend, the Shiva Lingam in this fort was consecrated by Lord Rama. The fort is home to Sita Ramalayam. There are several shallow pits in the fort, believed to have been used by Sita Devi for storing cooking materials.

The hillock also has a small pond, known as Sitamma Kolanu. The waterfalls formed on this hillock is therefore known as ‘Pandavalanka’. Devotees throng the temple during Sravana Masam to worship Lord Shiva and Sri Rama, and also take a dip in Sitamma Kolanu and Pandavalanka waterfalls.

Botanical Significance

The Ramagiri fort area is considered a rare land of biodiversity with lush growth of Ayurvedic herbs as well as medicinal plants and varieties of other herbs and useful shrubs. The abundant growth of rare vegetationattracts botanists from all over.

How to Reach

• Road

Ramagiri Khilla can be reached by bus from Warangal, Peddapalli, Mancherial, Peddapalliand Karimnagar.

• Railway Station

Peddapalli station on the New Delhi-Kazipet line, located about 20 km from the fort is the nearest railway station

Where to Stay

Karimnagar offers a wide range of hotels and accommodation of all budget types, providing comfortable accommodation for tourists visiting the region.