Top 10 Things To Do In Warangal, Telangana

1. Admire the magnificence of Warangal Fort

Witness the grandeur of the Kakatiya regime at Warangal Fort, which is renowned as the best architectural marvel here. More than its magnificence, it is known for its detailed stonework. The roots of this fort date back to the 12th century, when it was built by King Ganapatideva on the hillock called Ekashila. Sprawled out over 19 kilometers (11.8 miles), the fort is now in ruins, but there is enough here to show the skill of the craftsmen of the time. One of the unique characteristics is the decorative arched gateways that are known as Kakatiya Kala Thoranam. Furthermore, there are three layers of walls that keep it fortified. A carefully carved Shiva Temple stands in the center that has a very fascinating story attached to it. Don’t forget your camera.

Warangal Fort

Address: Mathwada, Warangal, Telangana 506001

Opening hours: 10am - 7pm (daily)

2. Plan an excursion to Kakatiya Zoological Park

A zoo is a place that fascinates many, especially children. So, a visit to Kakatiya Zoological Park is a must while you are vacationing in Warangal; particularly if you have kids with you. Conceptualized in 1985, it is also called Van Vigyan Park. A well-maintained place offering lush green surroundings, you will get to see a wide range of flora and fauna. The kids can have fun seeing animals like tigers, leopards, monkeys, and deer. Also, the singing of the birds will be a delight to your ears. There is a butterfly park on-site too. You can choose to ride one of the battery-operated cars when you get tired.

Kakatiya Zoological Park

Address: Hunter Rd, Meerpet, Hanamkonda, Telangana 506001

Website: Kakatiya Zoological Park

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9:30am - 5pm (closed on Mon)

3. Have a great family time at Kakatiya Musical Garden

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A visual treat to the eyes, Kakatiya Musical Garden is one of the most wonderful places in the city. Beautifully manicured and spread over an area of 15 acres (6 hectares), it is nestled close to the famous Bhadrakali Temple. Assuring visitors a refreshing experience away from the crowd, the garden has a very peaceful ambiance. The rock formations, the falls, and the lush green surroundings will bring you closer to nature. However, the main attraction is a huge musical fountain placed right in the middle of the garden. With multi-colored lights synchronized to good music, the fountain will make your visit all the more engaging. Apart from this, there is a lake where you enjoy a boat ride.

Kakatiya Musical Garden

Address: Near MGM, Tadkamalla Village, Warangal, Telangana 506002

Opening hours: 9am - 8pm (daily)

4. Witness the mesmerizing Thousand Pillar Temple

Showcasing the best of Kakatiya architecture is the renowned Thousand Pillar Temple that was built in 1163 AD and dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva and Lord Sun. It is a star-shaped structure that houses many shrines, of which the primary shrines are for these three deities, and it is collectively referred to as Trikutalayam. It is said that it took about 72 years for the structure to be completed, and since the temple was constructed during the regime of King Rudra, it is also called Rudreshwara Swamy Temple. Very intricately carved statues of elephants welcome you at the entrance, and a huge structure of Nandi, said to have been carved out of a single stone, is simply marvelous. There is a big garden encircling the temple where you can take a stroll.

Thousand Pillar Temple

Address: Hyderabad - Warangal Hwy, Raganna Darwaja, Rd, Brahmanawada, Hanamkonda, Telangana 506011

Opening hours: 5am - 9pm (daily)

5. Relish breathtaking views of Warangal Fort from Khush Mahal

Nestled within the premises of Warangal Fort, Khush Mahal is another must-see attraction that represents the architectural opulence of Warangal’s past. Also called Shitab Khan Mahal, it is said that this place was built on the ruins of Kakatiya Palace. A massive chamber with an arched opening on all four sides, it served as an auditorium and was used as a venue for hosting different events and gatherings. The carvings, angled arches, slanted walls, high ceilings, and many such unique features connect it to the architectural style of the Tughlaq dynasty. A staircase will lead you to the top from where you can get spectacular views of the fort. Other than this, the place is home to the remains of two temples. If you wish to take home a souvenir, there are hawkers stationed outside.

Khush Mahal

Address: Warangal Fort, Kila Warangal, Mathwada, Warangal, Telangana 506002

Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)

6. See the Ekanda Shila-style Bhadrakali Temple

Drawing devotees each year, Bhadrakali Temple is one of the oldest temples in the country. Sitting on the serene banks of Bhadrakali Lake, the temple has an extremely soothing environment. It is said that in 625 AD, Pulakeshin II conquered the Vengi region. He built this temple to celebrate his victory and as a gesture of gratefulness to the goddess Bhadrakali. Be it the idol or the overall architecture, this gorgeous structure was built in the Ekanda Shila style, which means it was sculpted out of a single stone. While undergoing renovation in the 1950s, alterations were done to the main idol as well.

Bhadrakali Temple

Address: Tadkamalla Village, Warangal, Telangana 506007

Opening hours: 5:30am - 1pm, 3pm - 8:30pm (daily)

7. Explore Warangal's neighbor, Hanamkonda

Hanumakonda or Anmakonda - you can refer to it by any of these names, but today it is mostly called Hanamkonda. Placed between Kazipet and Warangal, Hanamkonda was previously the capital of the Kakatiya dynasty before Warangal became the new capital. The beautiful village was formed by two brothers named Hanumaiah and Kondaiah. Drawing the attention of countless visitors is a wide array of remarkable attractions nearby such as Thousand Pillar Temple and Bhadrakali Temple. Along with these, you can visit the well-manicured gardens, parks and other such enjoyable places.

8. Capture the picturesque views around Bhadrakali Lake

While you are visiting Bhadrakali Temple, do find some time to soak in the calm beauty of Bhadrakali Lake. The fresh air and the captivating views will completely relax your nerves. Placed in the heart of the city, it was built by Ganapati Deva of the Kakatiya dynasty. As it is near the temple, you will find a lot of devotees visiting it. Spread out over 10,000 acres (4,046 hectares), it is one of the most coveted tourist spots in Warangal and often thronged by visitors. It is considered to be one of the most crucial water resources and is linked to Manair Dam. Near the lake, there are natural rock formations that are worth checking out. There is a facility for boating as well.

Bhadrakali Lake

Address: Tadkamalla Village, Warangal, Telangana 506007, India

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

9. Relax at Ekashila Lake & Children’s Garden

It can be tiring to go on vacation. While you are in Warangal, take a break from your sightseeing schedule and visit this fantastic lake accompanied by a lovely kids’ park. Relish the wonderful views of the lake while boating, or going swimming. There is horse-riding available too, along with other fun games like bungee jumping, a Tora-Tora ride, and a lot more to keep the young ones entertained. There is a toy train on-site as well. Feel relaxed in the peaceful ambiance of this place while your kids enjoy playing in the park located just beside the lake.

Ekashila Lake & Children's Garden

Address: Near Warangal Fort, Mathwada, Warangal, Telangana 506002

Opening hours: 9am - 7pm (daily)

10. Seek blessings from Lord Shiva at Shivaalayam

Lord Shiva has a different place altogether in the Hindu religion, so you will find exquisite places dedicated to this tremendously powerful deity. In Warangal, you will find many such points devoted to Lord Shiva, one of which is Shivaalayam. Positioned in Warangal Fort, this is a fabulous place to spend a fun-filled day with kids, family, and friends. Shivaalayam sees a lot of visitors from Warangal as well as other neighboring districts. If you visit during Maha Shivratri, it is beautifully decorated. This is a great place for photography too, as the views are mesmerizing from here.

Shivaalayam

Address: Warangal Fort, Ekashila Park, Near, Kila Warangal, Mathwada, Warangal, Telangana 506002

Opening hours: 9am - 7pm (daily)

An unforgettable journey to Warangal - one of the most incredible heritage cities of India

Warangal is a destination fit for any traveler. It is not only an immensely entertaining place but an educational venue as well. Suitable to visit in any season, this is unquestionably a hidden gem of South India and has all the elements to make the adventurer inside you fall in love with its charm. We highly recommend a trip to this amazing city at least once.