According to local lore, the region around Mettu Gutta suffered from severe drought. The nine rishis – Mandavya, Madreechi, Sandilaya, and six others – performed intense penance to Lord Shiva to bring rain. Pleased by their devotion, Shiva blessed the area and appeared as Siddeswaramurthy (the self‑manifested linga). The linga emerged from the ground at a 45‑degree angle and is believed to be slowly rising even today. Devotees consider it as sacred as Varanasi’s Vishweshwara.

In honour of the nine rishis, nine small tanks (gundaalu) were created on the hill. Each tank is associated with one rishi, and their water is considered to have the same purifying power as the Ganges. The eye‑shaped tank (gundam) is especially revered. Next to the linga, the seven water springs (Patala Ganga) flow continuously from the rocks, and one of them is believed to have an underground connection to the Ramappa Temple (≈100 km away) – a testament to the engineering and faith of the Kakatiya era.

Near the temple, two remarkable columns of stacked rocks can be seen – one column with five rocks and the other with four rocks. Their total height is approximately 165 feet. Local tradition says that Bhima (the second Pandava) once visited this hill with his wife Hidimbi. While Bhima meditated, Hidimbi played a game with small stones, and through divine strength, the stones aligned into these towering columns. Hence, the columns are called Dhomtalamma gundlu. Visitors can also see what are believed to be Bhima’s footprints on a rock nearby.

Geologically, these columns are natural spheroidal weathering formations, but the legend adds a layer of epic charm. The columns are a major draw for visitors and photographers.

One of the most inspiring stories associated with Mettu Gutta is that of the poet Pothana, the renowned author of the Telugu Bhagavatam. According to tradition, the poet Vanamalai Varadacharyulu (later known as Pothana) performed Vagiswari upasana (worship of Goddess Saraswati) on this hill for 40 days. Pleased by his devotion and penance, Goddess Saraswati blessed him with divine knowledge and the ability to compose the Bhagavatam in simple, lyrical Telugu. The Bhagavatam remains one of the greatest works of Telugu literature, read and revered for over five centuries. A small meditation spot on the hill commemorates this event. Literary enthusiasts often visit Mettu Gutta to pay homage to Pothana.

The Shiva temple on Mettu Gutta exhibits classic Kakatiya architecture (12th–13th century), though some stone carvings suggest even earlier Vengi Chalukya roots. The temple is built with black and grey granite, and the roof is supported by carved pillars. The Rama temple nearby is simpler but equally ancient. During the Kakatiya reign, a fort was established on this hill (1198 AD), and several temples were built. The presence of water springs, tanks, and natural rock formations suggests the site was used for ritualistic purposes long before the temples were constructed.

Unique features include:

• Leaning linga in a small sanctum.
• Rock‑cut cisterns that feed the nine tanks.
• Underground water channels (believed to connect to far‑off temples).
• Stone inscriptions (few remain, some in the Kakatiya script).

The site is under the Endowment Department, but maintenance is poor. The city HRIDAY plan for Warangal has identified Mettu Gutta as a heritage asset, but improvements are yet to be fully implemented.

By Road: The temple is on the main Hyderabad–Warangal highway (NH163), at the entrance of Madikonda village. It is clearly visible from the road.

• From Hyderabad: 150 km via NH163 (approx 3 hours).
• From Warangal city centre: 10 km – take Kazipet road, then turn at Madikonda.
• From Kazipet Railway Station: 5 km – auto‑rickshaws and taxis available.

Buses from Warangal and Kazipet stop at Madikonda. From the bus stop, it is a short walk or auto ride (₹20) to the hill base. Parking is available but limited and poorly designed – better to park along the highway shoulder if the lot is full.

By Rail: Nearest station – Kazipet Junction (≈5 km) or Warangal (≈10 km). Both are well connected to Hyderabad, Vijayawada, and Delhi.

By Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (≈150 km).

October – February (Peak): Pleasant weather (12°C – 28°C), ideal for climbing and exploring the nine tanks and rock columns. The springs and tanks have water if the monsoon was good.
March – May (Summer): Very hot (38°C–45°C) – visit early morning (6–9 AM) or late evening (4–7 PM). Carry extra water; the rock surface becomes hot.
June – September (Monsoon): The hill becomes lush, and the springs flow fully. However, the path becomes slippery – wear anti‑skid shoes. The scene is picturesque.
Special days: Maha Shivaratri (Feb/Mar) and Rama Navami (Mar/Apr) see special pujas and small gatherings.