Warangal

Introduction and history: The Warangal city is one of the ancient dynasties of Vishnukundins, located in Andra Pradesh. It is believed that their history traces back even prior to the Buddhist. During the 8th century it was called ‘Orukal’ (meaning one stone), which also served as the capital of Kakatiyas. After the fall of Bahamani Kingdom, Warangal fell to the ‘Qutab Shahis’ of Golkonda and thereafter it has came under the sway of Nizam’s domination. Post Independent it joined the independent India and located in the Telangana region of the state. Apart from many of the monuments the Kakatiyas left, Warangal is known for its granite quarries, grain market, cotton and tobacco.

What to see and when to go: Being one of the ancient cities of Andra Pradesh, the city of Warangal offers multiple tourist options in form of historical monuments and lakes. The Thousand Pillars Temple, Ramappa Temple, Warangal Fort and Ghanpur Group of Temples, Badrakali Temple are the main attractions. Ramappa Lake, Pakhal Lake and Lakhnavaram Lake are the famous water bodies around Warangal. Some of the recently developed modern attractions include Musical Garden, Rock Garden and Regional Science Centre. October to March is the ideal time to visit Warangal.

Accommodation: As most of the tourist activities happening in the recent past, many accommodation options have developed recently. It doesn’t have many luxury hotels but many decent options are available at a very reasonable price. There is Government promoted guest houses available in the city as well.
Mode of Transport: Hyderabad is the nearest Airport located about 140 Kilometers from Warangal. It is connected with all the major cities of India and few of the international cities with regular flights. Warangal is one of the important railway lines that connect the northern and southern parts of India. The National Highway 202 (NH - 202) traverses from Warangal, connecting it with Hyderabad and other major cities.
Related links:
• Andra Pradesh Tourist information: http://www.aptourism.in/
• Official website : http://warangal.nic.in/

See also (nearby places): Hyderabad, Nagarjuna Sagar and Etunagaram Wild Life Sanctuary are some of the nearby tourist attractions.