Kotilingala in Karimnagar district was the first capital of the Satavahana Kingdom (230 BCE–220 CE). Formerly known as Sabbinadu, inscriptions dating to the Kakatiya dynasty (1083–1323) by kings Prola II and Prataparudra found at Karimnagar and Srisailam provide evidence of the area’s rich history.
Archaeological excavations in Pedda Bonkur, Dhulikatta and Kotilingalu show that the area was once ruled by the Satvahanas, Mauryas and Asaf Jahis. Situated on the Manair River, Lower Manair Dam is indeed a tourist delight. The Manair River, which is a tributary of the Godavari River is home to a dam built at the confluence of Manair with the Mohedamada River. It is a popular picnic spot located close to Karimnagar.
Located close to the left bank of river Manair near Karimnagar town, the hilltop fort of Elgandal was constructed during Kakatiya period, and it was later passed onto the hands of Qutb Shahis. There are two stone fortification walls, two mosques, two dilapidated temples, ammunition building, jail khana, wells and other structural edifices in this fort.
Located near Lower Manair Dam, on the outskirts of Karimnagar town is a famous tourist attraction called Ujwala Park, where tourists relax in the tranquil surroundings. Rajeev Gandhi Deer Park located near Ujwala Park, is known for its teeming deer population. Located along River Godavari, Shivaram wildlife Sanctuary in Karimnagar district is a beautiful wildlife sanctuary spread over 36.29 sq.km approximately.
Sri Raja Rajeshwara Temple
The temple of Lord [Shiva] in the form of Raja Rajeshwara Swami is very famous in this part of the region. The presiding deity of the temple is Sri Raja Rajeswara Swamy who is locally popular as Rajanna who is adorned on both the sides by the idol of Sri Raja Rajeswari Devi on the right side and to the left is the idol of Sri Laxmi Sahitha Siddi Vinayaka.Vemulawada Raja Rajeswara temple is situated 38 km from Karimnagar. This famous temple dedicated to Lord Rajarajeswara Swamy, draws pilgrims in large numbers. There is a Dargah inside the temple complex where all devotees offer prayers, irrespective of caste and creed.