Rangareddy

Rangareddy District, formerly known as K. V. Ranga Reddy District and Hyderabad (Rural) District, is a district in the state of Telangana, India. It was formed in 1978 when it was split from Hyderabad district. The district has an area of 7,493 km², and a population of 3,575,064 of which 54.20% was urban as of 2001.

The district encircles the city and district of Hyderabad, and the city of Hyderabad also serves as the administrative center of the district. It is the most populous district of Telangana

The district has 1055 villages and grouped in 37 mandals.

History

Originally named hyderabad (Rural) district, it was renamed after Konda Venkata Ranga Reddy, a freedom fighter who fought for the independence of Telangana from the Nizams and who went on to become the deputy chief minister of Andhra Pradesh.

Divisions

Assembly Constituencies

There are 14 assembly constituencies in Ranga Reddy district. They are Medchal, Malkajgiri, Qutbullapur, Kukatpally, Uppal, Ibrahimpatnam, L B Nagar, Maheshwaram, Rajendranagar, Serilingampally, Chevella, Pargi, Vikarabad and Tandur.

Mandals

Mandals are third-level administrative areas in India, below states and districts. There are 37 mandals in Ranga Reddy district:

Tourist attractions in Ranga Reddy

Ramoji Film City

The Ramoji Film City, situated in the Rangareddy District, is a film studio complex, equipped with comprehensive facilities for film making,that attracts a large number of producers towards it. Guided tours of the complex are provided for visitors.

Maheshwaram

Maheshwaram is a popular pilgrimage centre situated in the Rangareddy District. The main attraction of the place is the ruins of an ancient Shiva temple. Apart from this temple, the place also comprises two fortresses namely Shiva Ganga and Vishnu Ganga.

Chilkur

The Village of Chilkur is a small village situated in the premises of Himayath Sagar Lake of Rangareddy District. This village is not only a scenic spot, but is also a religious site due to the presence of a large Balaji temple at the place. Situated close to the Sagar Lake.

Sanghi

Sanghi is a temple complex built by the Sanghi Family, in the Rangareddy District. This temple has been built completely in marble and was sculpted by the renowned craftsman Sri Ganapathy Stapathy.

Durgam Cheruvu

Durgam Cheruvu is another significant lake of the Rangareddy District. This lake is the most unspoilt and the quietest one in the region. Its surroundings include unique rock mounds, whose presence here marks the boundaries of the plateau of this lake.

Shilparamam

Shilparamam is an architecturally significant village of the Rangareddy District. This village is spread over a total area of 50 acres and is situated in the town of Madhapur, which is also known as the Hi-tech city.

Keesaragutta

Keesaragutta is a unique hillock situated in the district of Rangareddy, which is famous for being home to a thousand Shiva Lingams. This hillock is famous as one of the places where Lord Rama worshipped Lord Shiva. An ancient temple is also present within its premises, which comprises a unique sand sculpture in its sanctum sanctorum.

Ocean Park

Ocean Park is an amusement and water theme park, located in the centre of the plateau of Rangareddy District. This water park offers activities like sliding, rafting and carousels in the wave pool. It is spread over 20 acres of landscaped gardens and is a popular weekend gateway for the urban population, being situated just 15 km away from the state capital of Hyderabad.

Shamirpet Lake

The Shamirpet Lake is a huge lake situated in the Shamirpet Mandal of Rangareddy City. It lies at a distance of 42 km from Hyderabad and is a famous weekend gateway providing fresh air and solitude. Several guest houses present near this lake also facilitate accommodation for the tourists that come to the place.

Anantagiri Hills

Anantagiri Hills are popular sightseeing as well as picnic spots in the Rangareddy District. These hills form a part of the Anantagiri Hill Range and are a popular hill station and an upcoming summer resort. This place mainly comprises ancient cave like structures and several bathing ghats. It is also home to the Ananthaswamy Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Ananta Padhmanabha and is considered to have been built many centuries ago, by a Muslim king. This temple also depicts instances of the past of this land. Surroundings of these hills comprise thick forests providing a salubrious climate to the place.

Posted at 13:47 |  by IBPS

Mahabubnagar

Mahabubnagar town is located at a distance of 96 km from Hyderabad city. Formerly called Rukmammapeta and Palamooru, it derived the name of Mahabubnagar in 1890, in the honor of Mir Mahbub Ali Khan Asaf Jah VI, one of the rulers of the Nizam dynasty of Hyderabad

Mahabubnagar’s border is marked by River Krishna in the south with Andhra Pradesh. Mahabubnagar is the largest district of Telangana State. It is well connected by road and rail network on Hyderabad-Bangalore section. It was under the rule of Satavahana Dynasty and then Chalukyan Dynasty in South India between the periods of 5th and 11th century AD. Later it was under the Golconda State and finally Hyderabad State.

Krishna and Tungabhadra rivers flow through this district. Dindi River, is an important tributary of the river Krishna in this district. Mahabubnagar district is home to famous temples and many religious and heritage sites of historical importance. Umamaheshwaram near Achampet in renowned for Umamaheshwaram temple in the hills of Nallamala forests.

Jurala Dam, Alamapur’s Jogulamba temple (considered one of the eighteen shaktipeetams in India) and Gadwal fort are some of the key destinations. Kollapur is a famous tourist attraction with architectural sites dating back to 2nd century BC. Koilsagar is a key dam, which attracts tourists. Mallela Theertham is a popular waterfall situated in Nallamala forest region. The district has an important Tiger sanctuary located near the Srisailam forest area.

Alampur:
According to puranas there are four entrances to Srisailam. The east one is considered to be Tripurantakam, Siclcihavattam to the south, to the North it is believed to be Umamaheshwaram and to the west, it is considered Alampur. The town is home for Nava Brahma Temples, a cluster of nine temples built by the Chalukya rulers, which are situated on the west bank of the River Tungabhadra.

Srirangapur:
Srirangapur located near Wanaparthy is home to Sri Ranganayakaswamy temple built in 18th century A.D. It was built by Sri Krishnadeva Raya close to Rama Pushpakarni Lake.

Pillalamarri:
One of the most delightful places to see in Mahabubnagar is a famous banyan tree called Pillalamarri, at a distance of four kms from the town. It has a tomb dedicated to Muslim saint. It is a 700-year old banyan tree while the branches extend over an area close to 3 acres.

Kollapur:
The renowned Madhava Swamy temple at Kollapur, constructed by Rajas of Jetprole during the 16th century A.D. is located near River Krishna, at Manchalakatta.

Someswara swamy temple:
Located close to 120 kms from Mahabubnagar and 10 kms from Kollapur is the famous Someswara Swamy temple. There are 15 temples here, which house the Shivalingas. Festivals like Shivarathri & Karthika Pournami are celebrated with religious fervour.

Gadwal fort
Mahaboobnagar district in Telangana is referred to as territorial district, because it had many territorial rulers than any other place in the state. Gadwal is a famous place among these and was called ‘Vidvadgadwala’ historically.

Jetprolu: 
Situated at a distance of nine kms from Kollapur & 158 kms from Mahabubnagar town, this place is well known for the Agasthyesvara Swamy temple. Another temple located15 kms from Kollapur is the Madana Gopala Swamy temple that is richly adorned with beautiful sculpture. They were built in 16th century AD.

Jurala Dam
The Jurala project, which is also known as the Priyadarshini Project is located at a distance of 10 kilometers from Kurvapur village in the Mahabubnagar district of Telangana. Laid over the Krishna River, the Reservoir is at a level of 1045 feet. This power project, which has a water storage capacity of 11.94 TMC, was inaugurated in the year 1995.

Koilsagar Dam
The Koilsagar Dam is located in Koilsagar Village of the Deverakadra Mandal in the Mahabubnagar District of Telangana. Teeming with water, the Koilsagar Dam is one of the most preferred tourist attractions of Mahabubnagar.

The Kolisagar Dam is a medium-sized irrigation project that was constructed at a cost of Rs 80 crores during the period of the Nizams during 1945-48. The Koilsagar Dam, which is about 8 kilometers from the Koil konda village, stretches its power across the Peddavagu River, a minor tributary of the River Krishna. One can find some elegantly curved hills on the western stretch, making it a perfect tourist spot.
Tiger Forest, Mannanur

Mannanur is a tribal hamlet, which houses a sophisticated and furnished camp bungalow. You can find a crocodile pond and a center for environmental education, next to the bungalow. We can explore the wonders of the Nagarjuna Sagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve’s western wing from Mannanur. The Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve also serves as one of the popular wildlife sanctuaries in the country.

Posted at 10:17 |  by IBPS

Adilabad

Adilabad is a town and district headquarters for Adilabad district of Telangana state, India. It is the northernmost district of Telangana and connects the region with Central and North India.

It is located at a distance of 290 km from capital city of Hyderabad and records some of the extreme temperatures in South India. Adilabad offers tourists a holistic experience with its historical temples, monuments and breathtaking waterfalls. The highest waterfalls in Telangana, Kuntala Waterfalls is situated close to the Sahyadri mountain ranges. Pochera waterfalls is situated in thick forest where river Godavari descends from a height of 20 m.

Basar Saraswathi Temple, situated on the banks of Godavari River, is a prominent temple in Adilabad and is one among the two temples in India dedicated to the Goddess Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge, music, arts and sciences.Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary is situated amidst dense forests, a perfect setting for wild animals and plants. Pranahita Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular tourist attraction in Adilabad district.

Nirmal Fort

Nirmal is a prominent town in Adilabad district and the ancient history of the town boasts of a glorious past due to patronization of arts and culture by ruling nobility. The region was ruled by Kakatiyas, Chalukyas, The Qutubshahis and Nizams who have contributed immensely to the growth of cultural heritage.

This legacy of the heritage is seen in the town where the French established a strong presence by building a magnificent fort, which stands majestically till date. The French who were reportedly very much fascinated by scenic beauty of Mother Nature here built the Nirmal fort, which is also called as the Shamgarh fort. Recently the tourist department has provided amenities for tourists such as a clean pathway, cafeteria, drinking water facility and some landscaping works inside the fort.

Dokra Metal Crafts

Dokra Metal craft is quite popular in the tribal regions of Telangana. Dhokra or Dokra also known as bell metal craft is a tribal metal craft widely seen in Jainoor Mandal, Adilabad District of Telangana. In Adilabad district, few places like Ushegaon and Chittalbori are the main contributors of this art.

Nirmal Arts

Nirmal town of Adilabad district is known for its varied range of handicrafts. The amazing skill of the craftsmen make the works appear authentic with their dazzling use of colors, accompanied with traditional techniques of creating master pieces. Adding to the authenticity of the Nirmal works is the use of natural dyes. Nirmal is world famous for oil paintings depicting themes from the epics such as Ramayana and Mahabharata. Exhibited in the form of wood paintings and other wooden articles, Nirmal artwork accompanies aesthetic expressions. The talent of the Nirmal artists in synthesizing Indian and Moghul schools of art is definitely worthy of admiration.

Kawal wildlife sanctuary

Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the important wildlife sanctuaries in Telangana. The Kawal sanctuary houses various animals and several varieties of flora and fauna are seen here. If you want to get a glimpse of wild animals in their natural habitat, then, the Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-see place.

The sanctuary houses several species of animals including Cheetal, Sambar, Barking Deer, Nilgai, Sloth Bear, Indian Bison, Panther and Tiger. Tourists can also find reptiles like Crocodile, Python, Monitor Lizard, Star Tortoise and Cobra, in this wildlife sanctuary. This tourist spot also provides jeep safaris, and bird watching trips to spot several rare animals in their habitat.

Pranahita wildlife sanctuary

Pranahita is an important dry deciduous type of forest. The Pranahita River, a tributary of river Godavari flows through this beautiful sanctuary adding a mystic touch to its exotic beauty. It is a hilly forest area with patches of plateau and grassland. Situated on the banks of Pranahita, the prehistoric rock formation of this place makes it more interesting to visit.

This sanctuary is rich in natural vegetation and different types of plants and trees can be found here including dalbergia paniculata, pterocarpus marsupium, ficus spp, dalbergia latifolia, dalbergia sissoo etc. The Pranahita Wildlife Sanctuary is a natural habitat for various types of wild species especially mammals including leopards, rhesus, tigers, langurs, hyenas, sloth bear, wild dogs, forest cat and many more. The best time to visit the Pranahita Wildlife Sanctuary is between October to March.

Kuntala water falls

Around 261 kms from Hyderabad, is a very beautiful waterfall in the Adilabad district of Telangana. After reaching Nirmal, you will have to travel a stretch of 10 km of ghat road which provides you a thrilling experience through dense forest. If you love long and adventurous rides, this road is a must-try. The place is hidden from the noisy external world and offers you the best of nature. It is covered with valleys, dense forest, and chirping birds. After entering the area, you will have to walk around half a kilometer and you will reach a place where you find a series of 408 steps down to the waterfalls.

Pochera waterfalls

At a distance of 37 kms from the famous Nirmal town, you will find this enthralling waterfall. This beautiful waterfall is the deepest of all the waterfalls in Telangana. This is also a caution to people who wish to take a dip in it. The location is very secluded and surrounded by picturesque locations and scenic environment. The waterfall has great width and height to make it the deepest in Telangana. The fall is 20 meter high and flows down with a great force, and the falls are categorized as plunge waterfalls.

Posted at 10:09 |  by IBPS

Nizamabad

Nizamabad is a city and a municipal corporation located in the Nizamabad District of Telangana, India. It was earlier known as Indur and is the headquarters of the Nizamabad district and one of the major urban centres in Telangana. The city derives its name from Nizam-ul-Mulk, the fourth Nizam of the Hyderabad state.

Located just 7 km near Nizamabad, is the forest of Mallaram, a popular eco-tourism spot with many facilities for visitors. Nizam Sagar is a large reservoir, located across the Manjira river, a tributary of the Godavari River. There are facilities here for accommodation and boarding for tourists.

Sarangpur, located 8 km from Nizamabad, is known for its Hanuman Temple, the foundation stone of which was laid by saint Samartha Ramadas, the guru of Chhatrapati Shivaji. Kanteshwar is popular for its ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva built by Satakarni II, a popular Satavahana king. The Alisagar Deer Park, located in Nizamabad that has several species of deer, notably among them, the golden hued deer. The Nizamabad Fort is a heritage spot, built by the Rashtrakutas, and was then taken over by Allaudin Khilji, the Bahamanis, Qutub Shahis and finally ruled by Asaf Jahis.

The Archaeological Museum here is home to several antiquities and artefacts that represent the local civilization from the Paleolithic Era to Vijayanagara Empire. The Ashok Sagar Lake located 7 km from Nizamabad is a scenic spot amid dense forest cover enroute Saraswathi temple located at Basar. Alisagar Reservoir is a popular picnic spot in the region. The hillock mosque Bada Pahad Dargah, is thronged by many Muslim devotees each year. Dichpally Ramalayam is a renowned temple located at a distance of 15 km from Nizamabad. Neelakanteshwara Temple located atop a hillock is an important shrine for the followers of Jainism.

The district has a large-sized irrigation project called Pochampad or Sri Ram Sagar Dam on Godavari River. It supplies ample water for drinking and irrigation purposes to north Telangana districts.

Posted at 10:04 |  by IBPS

Nalgonda

Nalgonda District is located in the Telangana state of India. Nalgonda was earlier called Neelagiri by Rajput rulers and the name was finally changed to Nallagonda after its conquest by Bahamani king.

There are many places of tourist attractions. Yadagiri Gutta, a revered pilgrimage in Nalgonda is situated near Bhuvanagiri Town. It is located close to the capital city of Hyderabad. The temple draws huge crowds during festivals and weekends and is an abode of Lord Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy.

The district shares Nagarjunasagar dam along with AP. The largest masonry dam in the world, it consists of 26 gates and a Hydroelectric plant. The tourism department of Telangana offers excellent boating facilities in the backwaters of Nagarjunasagar dam. Bhuvanagiri Fort built by Tribhuvanamalla Vikramaditya gives a bird’s eye view of a vast area. PillalaMarri is one of the oldest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is considered 1000 years old. It is also the birthplace of the famous Telugu poet Pillamarri Pina Virabhadrudu.

Sri Jain Mandir at Kolanupaka village, near Aler town is a 2000-year old temple consisting of three holy idols of Lord Adinath, Lord Neminath and Lord Mahaveera and Theerthankaras. Nandikonda is a small village on the banks of the river Krishna with several Buddhist structures and pillared halls and is home to a renowned museum of the Archaeological Survey of India. Panagal has several ancient temples built during the reign of the Kakatiya, Reddy and Velama kings.

Chaya Someswara swamy Temple is located in Panagal village, Nalgonda district of Telangana, India. This temple was built during 11th &12th centuries by the Ikshvaku family. The temple got the name, as it is believed that there is an everlasting shadow on Lord Shiva’s Lingam in the main temple, all day.

Mellacheruvu is a small village in the Nalgonda district of Telangana, India. Mellacheruvu still carries the imprint of the prosperous Kakatiya dynasty and its renowned architecture. One such grand testimonial depicting the skill of the Kakatiyan artisans is the temple of Swayambhu Sambhulingeswara Swami. This temple manifested the dynasty’s royalty, richness and gratitude towards the Lord Shiva. It is also one of the most celebrated temples of Telangana.

Posted at 09:59 |  by IBPS

Medak

Medak is a town located in the Medak District of Telangana State, India, situated at a distance of 104 km north of Hyderabad. The original name of Medak was Siddapuram, which was later called Gulshanabad, and now Medak.

Locals in Medak celebrate various festivals of Telangana, notably the festival of Bathukamma, a 9-day long worship of patron goddess of womanhood, Maha Gauri. The goddess is worshipped in the form of the Bathukamma. Other notable festivals celebrated in Medak include Bonalu and Peerla Panduga, celebrated by both Hindus and Muslims.

There are many historical temples in Medak, which attract tourists such as Shri Saraswathi Kshetramu, near Ananthasagar, a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Saraswathi. Edupayala Durga Bhavani Gudi, located in Telangana close to the states of Karnataka and Maharashtra, is a shrine dedicated to goddess Durga Bhavani that has unique natural stone formations. Edupayalu means “seven streams”, as it is located near the spot where the Manjeera River splits into seven streams. Kasi Visweswara temple, Kotilingeshwara swamy temple and Joginatha temple are other popular destinations.

Methukudurgam fortress or Medak fort depicts the city’s prosperous times during the reign of the Kakatiya dynasty built during the reign of Kakatiya emperor Pratapa Rudra. The name Medak comes from the Telugu word methuku, which means “cooked rice grain.” The fortress is located strategically on top of a hill and has three main entrances that are each decorated with different sculptures. The town also has a renowned art museum.
Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary is a forest and wildlife sanctuary named after the nearby Pocharam Lake. Medak Cathedral that falls under the Diocese of Medak is the single largest diocese in Asia. The district is home to medium irrigation projects, Manjeera and Singur reservoirs. Water from these reservoirs is supplied to Hyderabad city and also used for cultivation locally.

Posted at 09:56 |  by IBPS

Khammam

The name Khammam has been derived from the name of a local hill by the name Stambhadri that is home to an ancient temple of Narasimha Swamy and also believed to have been in existence since Treta Yuga.

The name of the town, Stambhadri, later reportedly became Kambhadri, Kambham mettu, and finally, Khammam, which is now the district headquarters. The town is located close to the river Munneru a tributary of the Krishna River. Khammam district is of immense historical importance in Telangana.

In 1959 Bhadrachalam Revenue Division of East Godavari region was merged into Khammam due to geographical contiguity and administrative viability. There is an annual festival held in Khammam in remembrance of the old name called “Stambhadri”.

The district shares boundaries with the states of AP and Chattisgarh. Khammam Fort, that was constructed in 950 AD by the Kakatiya rulers stands majestically atop a hill, overlooking the town of Khammam town.
Khammam Fort represents a union of both Hindu and Muslim architectural influences. Iy also recently celebrated 1000 years of its construction. Khammam district is rich in coal deposits and forest reserves. There are many places of interests in Khammam such as Nelakondapalli, Bhadrachalam, Kusumanchi etc.

Destinations in Khammam
Bhadrachalam
Bhadrachalam is a key town of pilgrimage importance located in the Khammam District of Telangana. The temple town of Bhadrachalam is situated on the banks of Godavari River. According to Mythology, the present town was once part of the Dandakaranya forest,that Lord Sri Rama, Sita and Lakshmana had visited during their exile also called vanavasam according to local parlance.
The town shares its historical significance with Ramayana Era. The name Bhadrachalam is derived from the word Bhadragiri (The Mountain Abode of Bhadra, the child of Meru and Menaka). The famous temple at Bhadrachalam is home to the Archa Murthys of Rama, Sita and Lakshmana and their idols are believed to be swayambhu i.e. self-manifested ones.

Jamalapuram 
Jamalapuram is a small village situated close to Yerrupalem town of Khammam district, Telangana, India. The village has an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. Here Lord Venkateswara is manifested in the form of swayambhu. The temple also boasts of Padmavathi Ammavari Temple, Sivalayam, Ganesh Temple, Anjaneya Swamy temple, Sri Alivelu Amma vari Temple and Ayyappa Swamy Temple. The temple’s location amidst pleasant weather surrounded by lush green hills is an added attraction.

Kinnerasani Dam
Kinnerasani River is an important tributary of the river Godavari. The scenic beauty created by the landscape along the Kinnerasani River is a panoramic one abutted by lush green landscape. The Kinnerasani project or the Dam is a storage reservoir constructed on the Kinnerasani River in the Godavari Basin at Yanamboil village of Palvoncha mandal. The Kinnerasani sanctuary is a haven of exotic wildlife and tourists enjoy their visit here by spotting several animals in their natural habitat.

Kusumanchi
Kusumanchi is a sub division located in Khammam district, Telangana, India. Kusumanchi town is located on the way from Khammam and Suryapet. Kusumanchi is home to Sri Ganapeshwaralayam and Mukkanteswaralayam, the two Siva temples built by the Kakatiya rulers during 12th and 13th centuries. The temples stand as testimony to the architectural skills of the Kakatiya kings.

Nelakondapalli
Nelakondapalli is a town and a mandal headquarters in Khammam district, Telangana, India, located at a distance of 21 km from Khammam town. Nelakondapalli is a historic site, which includes a mud fortification wall that covers 100 acres. Excavations by archaeologists have unearthed the foundations of viharas, cisterns, wells, a Mahastupa, terracotta idols, a bronze idol of Lord Buddha and a miniature stupa carved in limestone, and other historic materials from third and fourth centuries.

The Kinnerasani Wildlife Sanctuary in the proximity of Kinnerasani dam is popularly for its Deer Park and is home for varieties of wild animals, birds and reptiles. It is a part of the Dandakaranya Forests.

Posted at 09:53 |  by IBPS

Karimnagar

Karimnagar is a city and Municipal Corporation of Telangana state located on the banks of the River Manair River, a tributary of the Godavari River.

Karimnagar is located 165 kilometers from the state capital of Hyderabad. The city derives its name from Syed Karimuddin, believed to be one of its founders. It served as an important center for Satavahana dynasty. The district has rich coal deposits in the Godavari valley and borders Maharashtra state.

Vemulawada is a temple town located 35 km from Karimnagar, in famous for its Sri Raja Rajeshwara Swamy Temple complex for devotees of Lord Shiva. Dharmapuri is shrine dedicated to Lord Narasimha Swamy, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Here the idols of Dakshinamurthy, Vinayaka and Saptha Mathrukas are carved on a single slab and is also home to the temple of Mahishasuramardhani, a sixty-pillar temple.

Kondagattu situated a distance of 35 km from the district headquarters, is dedicated to Lord Anjaneya Swamy. It is highly popular temple. Kaleshwaram is the site of the famous Shiva temple, Kaleswara Muktheswara Swamy and is considered unique due to the presence of two Shiva Lingas on a single pedestal, one for Lord Shiva and the other for Lord Yama. This place is known as Dakshina Triveni Sangamam, which is the merging point for river Godavari and its tributary, the River Pranahita. A breathtaking sanctuary in Karimnagar is the Sivaram Wildlife Sanctuary. It is home for crocodiles and many species of flora and fauna.

The district is also home to many heritage destinations such as Nagunur Fort, Dhulikatta, Elgandal fort, Molanguru Fort, Ramagiri Killa etc. The waters of lower Manair Dam is a spectacle to behold. Karimnagar is a resource rich district.

Posted at 09:49 |  by IBPS

warangal

Warangal, also called Orugallu or Ekasila Nagaram in earlier times is the headquarters of Warangal district in Telangana. Warangal is at a distance of 145 km to the northeast of Hyderabad.

History
In historical times, Warangal was the capital of a Shaivaite kingdom that was ruled by the Kakatiya dynasty from 12th to the 14th centuries. Its old name was Orugallu where Oru means one and Kallu means stone. The entire city was reportedly carved in a single rock, hence the name Orukallu that means one rock.
The Kakatiyas built many monuments, impressive fortress, massive stone gateways, a temple dedicated to Shiva, and also the Ramappa temple. The cultural distinction of the Kakatiyas was penned by the famous traveler Marco Polo. Ganapathi Deva, Prathapa Rudra, and Rani Rudrama Devi were among the main rulers. It was occupied by Bahmani Sultanate followed by the takeover of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb and later in 1724, it had become part of Telangana region.

Warangal is well connected by rail from Hyderabad, New Delhi, Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam and Chennai. The city represents a cluster of three towns such as Warangal, Kazipet and Hanamkonda. The city is famous for many attractions.

Thousand Pillar Temple
Among the most famous monuments of Telangana, the Thousand Pillar Temple in Hanamkonda, was built by the Kakatiya King Rudra Deva in 1163 AD in Chalukyan style of temple architecture. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and Surya boasts of perforated stone screens, meticulously designed pillars, richly carved icons, and rock cut elephants representing the brilliance of Kakatiya architecture.

Bhadrakali Temple
Located near the Thousand Pillar Temple, here is the famous temple of Bhadrakali, well known for its image of Goddess Kali in a sitting posture.

Warangal Fort
Built during the reign of Kakatiyas in the 13th Century, this impregnable fort is a combination of geometrical intricacies and beautiful arches. The fort consists of 45 towers and pillars, which are spread over a radius of 19 km. The iconic ‘Ekasshila’, which is a beautifully carved gateway in the fort now finds place in the official symbol of Telangana state.

Khush Mahal
The symbol of a glorious past is the Khush Mahal, was a masterpiece built by Shitabh Khan and is located near the Warangal Fort.

Ramappa Temple:
The Ramalingeswara temple, which is popularly called the Ramappa temple, is situated in Palampet village, 70 km from Warangal city. It boasts of intricate sculptures and richly carved pillars along with chiselled walls and ceiling.

Ramappa Lake:
The Kakatiya rulers are known for their traditions of constructing a tank adjacent to any temple. The Ramappa Lake was also excavated near the temple, which beholds a great scenic beauty, with the serene surroundings, rendering a mystical air to this temple.

Pakhal Lake:
A trip to Warangal is considered incomplete without a nice sojourn at the pleasant Pakhal Lake, which is located 50 km from Warangal city. It is a large manmade lake abutting forested hills. It was excavated during Ganapati Deva’s reign.

Kolanupaka:
Located close to Warangal-Hyderabad highway, Kolanupaka represents a fusion of history and religion. It was believed to be the 11th century capital of the Kalyani Chulukyas and the birthplace of a great Veera Shaiva called Saint Renukacharya,. It is a famous pilgrim centre for Jains.

Ethrunagaram:
Located 80 km from Warangal city, the Eturunagaram Sanctuary, on banks of River Godavari, is a dense forest, which is home to Spotted Deer, Neelgai, Blackbuck, Sloth Bear, Panther and Tiger. The best season to visit Eturunagaram Sanctuary is between October and May.

Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple
Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy temple is one of the famous temples in Telangana region. The Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy temple is an ancient temple with five hundred years of great history and is dedicated to Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy. The temple is located in a cave and situated in Kommeraveli village of Cherial Mandal.

Sammakka Saralamma Temple 
The Sammakka Saralamma temple in Warangal was built during the 12th century. This temple has no mythological background relating to the construction of the temple; instead, it is believed to bebuilt in the memory of two tribal women. The main deity(s) of the Sammakka Saralamma temple are two brave women who stood up for their community and its betterment. They became Martyrs in the battle.
The recent attractions include Musical Garden, Rock Garden, Regional Science Centre, Van Vigyan Kendra and Laknavaram Lake.

Posted at 09:42 |  by IBPS

Hyderabad

Hyderabad is the capital city of the Indian state of Telangana. The city is a hub for film industry, world-class public and private hospitals, Central and State Level Research Institutions, Information Technology industry, Biotech and Pharma industry and many public sector entities.

Endearingly named the Pearl City, Hyderabad offers a variety of tourist attractions such as age-old Heritage monuments, Gardens and Resorts, Lakes, Parks, Museums, delectable cuisine and an exciting shopping experience. For a tourist, Hyderabad is one place that offers fascinating panorama of the past, and is a blend of rich cultural and historical traditions spanning a history of 400 years. The city of lights, Hyderabad is known for offering many tourist attractions. The city has an average temperature of 22-34 degree Celsius and the best time to visit is from September to March.

Charminar 
Charminar is considered the signature of Hyderabad like how Taj Mahal is for Agra or the Eiffel Tower is to Paris. Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah, the founder of the city of Hyderabad, laid foundations for Charminar in 1591. It has 45 prayer spaces and a mosque, which is a symbol of the architectural splendor.

Mecca Masjid
Located adjacent to the south west of the Charminar is the famous Mecca Masjid that was completed by Aurangzeb in 1694.

Laad Baazar
A colourful shopping centre of the old city, Laad Baazar is tucked away near the lanes of Charminar. One can find bridal wear, pearls and the traditional Hyderabadi stone studded bangles here.

Golconda Fort
Golconda is among the famous forts of India. It was originally a mud fort, passed to Bahmani dynasty and later to the Qutb Shahis, who ruled from here from 1518 to 1687 A.D. The fort is well known for its acoustics, palaces, ingenious water supply system etc. The glorious past of Golconda Fort is presented effectively with Sound and Light effects, which transports one right back into the times of glory and grandeur.

Qutb Shahi Tombs
These tombs of the legendary Qutb Shahi kings are one-kilometer away from Golconda Fort. Considered one of the oldest historical monuments in Hyderabad, they were built in Pathan, Persian, and Hindu architectural forms.

Taramati Baradari
Taramati Baradari is a monument located on the Osman Sagar Road, near Golconda, over a sprawling 7-acre area surrounded by lush green environs with famed Golconda Fort in the backdrop.

Birla Mandir 
A white marble temple of Lord Venkateshwara floats dotting the city skyline, on Kala Pahad, and the idol here is a replica of the one at Tirumala.

Birla Planetarium
Birla Planetarium is among India’s most well created planetarium and the first-of-its kind in the country built with advanced technology from Japan. It is built on Naubat Pahad.

Salar Jung Museum
This museum is home to one of the biggest one-man collections of antiques of the world by Mir Yousuf Ali Khan, Salar Jung III. Some of the objects include Persian carpets, Chinese porcelain, Japanese lacquer ware, Veiled Rebecca statue and historic items belonging to various dynasties across the world.

State Archaeological Museum
A visit to the State Archaeological Museum is definitely a delight for art lovers. Situated in Public Gardens, the museum is home to one of the richest antiques and art works in India.

Public Gardens: 
Hyderabad is known for many beautiful gardens, and one among them is Public Gardens, a home for State Legislature, Jubilee Hall, State Archaeological Museum, Jawahar Bal Bhavan and Lalita Kala Thoranam, an open-air theatre.

Nehru Zoological Park
Stretching across 300 lush green acres, the Nehru Zoological Park is a haven for nature lovers. With more than 250 species of animals and birds that are nurtured in closest natural habitats as possible, it is also the first zoo to have moated enclosures for animals.

Mir Alam Tank
Mir Alam Tank, adjacent to Nehru Zoological Park has good boating facilities and is a water body excavated during Nizam rule.

Shilparamam (Arts & Crafts Village) 
Another attraction in Madhapur region besides Hi-tech city is the 30-acre is the Arts & Crafts village, which is a treasure trove various arts and crafts where the talent of artisans and artists is recognized.

Hitec City
A hub of information technology, it reflects the growth story of Hyderabad and is the main nucleus of Cyberabad, the most sought after IT destination and landmark building.

Hussainsagar Lake
Created in 1562 A.D. by Hussain Shah Wali, boating and water sports are an impressive feature of the Hussainsagar Lake. It houses one of the world’s tallest monolithic statues of Gautama Buddha on the ‘Rock of Gibraltar’, in the centre of the lake. It is surrounded by other places of interest such as NTR Gardens, Necklace Road, Lumbini Park, Tank Bund, Sanjeevaiah Park etc.,

The Nizam’s Silver Jubilee Museum
The Purani Haveli, built by the second Nizam, is now a museum with an impressive and fascinating collection. The museum displays the gifts and mementos given to the last Nizam during the silver jubilee celebrations in 1937.

Chowmohalla Palace
Built by the Nizam’s between 1857-1869, it is one of the key heritage buildings built in Mughal and European styles.

Durgam Cheruvu
The Secret Lake situated near Shilparamam Crafts Village and Hitech City offers excellent boating facilities.

Chilkur Balaji Temple
Balaji Temple at Chilkur in Ranga Reddy district is located 33 kms from Mehdipatnam in sylvan surroundings. The temple attracts hundreds of pilgrims each day and is a divine abode.

KBR National Park
Among the largest parks within the city limits, KBR National Park is a tropical deciduous forest with a rich concentration of the endemic flora of Hyderabad region in the heart of the city.

Mrugavani National Park
Situated close to Chilkur, 25 km. from Hyderabad city, the park houses endemic flora of Hyderabad including mammals such as wild boar, jungle cat etc. and birds.

Osmansagar Lake
Osmansagar, also called Gandipet, located on the outskirts of Hyderabad is considered as an excellent picnic spot. It is a reservoir created across the Isa, a tributary of River Musi.

Shamirpet Lake
Located 24 km from Secunderabad, Shamirpet is home to a beautiful lake and a deer park, which makes it a great picnic spot.

Posted at 09:37 |  by IBPS