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Have just two days? Go for the Hyderabad to Warangal road trip
Are you a history aficionado? Do you absolutely love the company of nature? Then Warangal is the city for you. With numerous ancient monuments, serene lakes, hills, and temples, you will love the experience.
The second largest city of Telangana, Warangal is the district headquarters of the two Warangal districts – Warangal Urban and Warangal Rural.
The Kakatiya dynasty ruled over the region around 1163, with Warangal as their capital. The monuments and temples they built in the region stand proudly in this city even today.
There are signs of development in the city now. Hopefully, years from now, we will still see Warangal as a city rooted in traditions and maintaining the beauty of its ancient structures, even while spruced up with modernism.
Since it is quite close to Hyderabad, the short trip to Warangal from Hyderabad is quite popular. The distance of 147 km can be covered in just two to three hours via NH 163, earlier known as NH 202.
Book an outstation cab from a reputed car rental provider so you can enjoy the trip, as there is a driver to take care of the driving. Check if the vehicle is certified and the driver has good experience in driving around the state.
There are so many amazing places on the road route that your sightseeing tour begins the minute you get into your car.
The three main towns on the way are Yadagirigutta, Jangaon and Himmat Nagar. Yadagirigutta or Yayadri is famous for its astonishing cave temple, Sri Lakshminarasimha Swamy Temple, dedicated to Narasimha Swamy, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
Do not miss the astonishing 10th-century Bhongir Fort atop a rock.
The next stop is Jangaon, a Jain pilgrimage center. The Kolanupaka Jain Temple or the Kulpakji Temple, one of the most revered and important Jain temples in India, is believed to be more than 2000 years old.
The entire stretch is also a delight to pass through owing to the beautiful scenery, as most of the area lies along the River Musi.
The Hyderabad to Warangal trip is not just for history lovers but for the foodies as well. Telangana is famous for its spicy food. Tamarind and mangoes are used extensively in the preparations there, so be prepared for some real tangy food.
Hotel Vivera, Hotel Yadagiri, Masterchef Restaurant are worth a try.
At Warangal, there are restaurants near most of the tourist spots. If you are looking at having an elaborate meal, then try out the various multi-cuisine restaurants at Warangal.
When you pass by Aler town, do not miss the renowned Aler tea.
Though you will find all types of delicacies, ask for local cuisine and Telangana specials such as Sakinalu, Sarva Pindi, Karijelu (snacks), Gongura Chana Dal, Ulavacharu, Bachali Kura, Pachi Pulusu (Vegetarian dishes), Kakaraya Pulusu, Golichina Mamsam, Oorru Kodi Pulusu (non-vegetarian dishes), among others. Of course, don't hesitate to take a bite of the famous Hyderabadi biryani as well.
Temples, forts, rocks, and lakes are what constitute Warangal attractions. The main attractions are:
Temples
Warangal is a place of temples and the most prominent among them are:
The Thousand Pillar Temple
Is one of the oldest temples in Warangal and as the name suggests, the temple is supported by a thousand pillars, which are more like the walls of the temple. There are three shrines in the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Surya respectively. It is a popular pilgrimage place in the state, visited by thousands of devotees daily. A huge Nandi statue created from black basalt stone is amongst the main attractions.
Next is the Ramappa Temple with its majestic architecture. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is believed that it took 40 years for the construction of the temple to be completed.
A temple that will awe you with its splendid construction is the Bhadrakali Temple which is believed to have been built in the eighth century. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, the temple is a must-visit.
Warangal Fort
Built in the 13th century, Warangal Fort was an archaeological wonder but today it is in ruins. Yet, you can see the carved pillars and astonishing arches which throw light into its glorious past. There is also a temple within the premises dedicated to Mother Earth, one of its kind in the country.
Hills and Lakes
The various hills, rocks, and hill temples are also major attractions of the city.
The two prominent lakes in Warangal are the Pahal Lake and the Lakhnavaram Lake. Most of the temples in South India have their own small ponds within the temple premises. Thus, you will find beautiful water ponds at the many temples here.
So, what are you waiting for? Rent a car self drive car or outstation cab from best car rental company and spend some time revisiting ancient history, feeling the wonders of nature and tasting some great food!