Kotilingala: Ancient Stupa, Mud Fort & Koteswara Temple
Where History Meets Pilgrimage – Coins of Simuka, 3rd c. BCE Buddhist Stupa & the Unique Lingam Legend
Kotilingala (also spelled Koti Lingala) is a historic village in Velgatur mandal, Jagtial district, Telangana, nestled on the southern bank of the Godavari River. The site is a remarkable confluence of ancient Buddhism and living Hindu worship. Archaeological excavations have revealed a 100-acre fortified city with a massive mud rampart, a large brick stupa (3rd–2nd century BCE), a monastic vihara, and most importantly, a hoard of silver and potin coins of the Satavahana king Simuka (Chimuka) – the founder of the Satavahana dynasty. Many scholars identify Kotilingala as the earliest Satavahana capital (possibly ancient Simhapura). Today, the site is also a vibrant pilgrimage destination: the Sri Koteswara Siddeshwara Swamy Devasthanam attracts thousands, especially during Maha Shivaratri, and the legendary story of Hanuman, two Shiva lingams, and the unique ritual of offering to the “Hanuman lingam” first continues to draw devotees. With a watchtower, wharf on Godavari, terracotta figurines, Roman contact and scenic hillocks, Kotilingala is an unmissable heritage destination.
In the 1980s–90s, the Department of Archaeology unearthed more than 100 coins of Simuka from Kotilingala – both silver and potin (copper-lead alloy). These coins typically feature a stylized elephant or bull on the obverse, and the Ujjain symbol (a cross with four circles) on the reverse, with the Brahmi legend “Rano Chimuka Satavahanasa”. Scholars like V.V. Krishna Sastry and A.M. Sastry argued that this Simuka (or Chimuka) is identical to the founder of the Satavahana line known from the Puranas and the Naneghat inscription. If true, Kotilingala would be the original Satavahana capital, possibly the ancient city of Simhapura (Lion City). However, some numismatists (P.L. Gupta, I.K. Sarma) have questioned this identification, noting that the coin fabric and symbol types differ from later Satavahana issues; they suggest these coins belong to a local ruler with a similar name. Nevertheless, the concentration of early Satavahana coins, punch‑marked coins, and Roman denarii indicates that Kotilingala was a major political and trade centre in the 2nd–1st century BCE.
The site is enclosed by a massive mud rampart (Dhulikota type) measuring 1054 metres in length and 330 metres in width, covering about 100 acres. The rampart was built of compacted earth and had several gates. A watchtower (11.5 m × 10.55 m) located at the south‑eastern corner still stands to some height, offering a panoramic view of the Godavari. A moat fed by the river protected the fort on three sides. Inside, excavators found residential quarters, storage bins, and industrial areas (iron slag and terracotta kilns). The presence of a wharf (landing point) on the riverbank indicates that boats and trade goods moved along the Godavari, linking Kotilingala to the east coast ports. This strategic location explains the city’s wealth and the accumulation of coins from distant regions.
The main stupa is a circular brick structure with a diameter of about 18 metres and an original height of 8–10 metres. It underwent three construction phases: the earliest core (c. 3rd–2nd century BCE) used large mud bricks; a Satavahana enlargement (c. 1st century BCE) added smaller, well‑fired bricks; and a late Satavahana renovation (c. 2nd century CE) added a lime‑plastered surface. A raised pradakshinapatha (circumambulatory path) paved with lime concrete surrounded the drum. Fragments of a stone railing (vedika) and a torana pillar base have been found, similar to the early railings at Sanchi. No relic casket was discovered, so this may be a Uddeshika stupa (memorial) rather than a relic shrine.
To the north of the main stupa, the foundations of a vihara (monastic residence) were uncovered: a square courtyard (approx. 15 m × 15 m) surrounded by 12 monastic cells (each 2.2 m × 2.2 m) with raised brick platforms. An adjoining hall likely served as the assembly or dining space. About 30 metres east of the stupa, an apsidal chaitya hall (12 m long, 6 m wide) was identified, with a small brick stupa (2 m diameter) at the apsidal end. This arrangement is typical of early Buddhist monasteries and confirms that a community of 20–30 monks once lived and prayed here.
Beyond the Simuka coins, excavators recovered coins of Satakarni I, Vedisiri, Siri Satakarni, and Pulamavi. Together with two hoards of punch‑marked coins (attributed to local rulers Gobhada and Samagopa, c. 2nd–3rd centuries BCE), the site documents the transition from local city‑states to the Satavahana imperial system. The presence of a die‑mould suggests that a mint operated within the fort.
A few Roman silver denarii (early 1st century CE) and fragments of Roman amphorae (wine jars) and terra sigillata (fine red pottery) have been identified at Kotilingala. This proves that the Godavari route was part of the Indo‑Roman trade network, connecting the Deccan to the port of Kalingapatnam (ancient Kalinga) and beyond. Beads of carnelian, agate, and glass, along with ivory combs (fragments) further attest to luxury goods passing through the city.
Hundreds of terracotta figurines were found: mother goddesses (yakshis), warriors on horseback, elephants, bulls, and a few Buddhist themes (a seated Buddha in meditation, a small model stupa). Notably, a stone Naga (serpent) image was recovered, indicating the coexistence of Buddhist and popular local cults. The terracotta style is typical of the early Deccan – hand‑made or single‑mould, with expressive faces and simple ornamentation.
The pottery assemblage includes Northern Black Polished Ware (NBPW) – a hallmark of Mauryan influence – alongside local red‑slipped ware, coarse grey ware, and cooking vessels. Iron objects (arrowheads, nails, chisels, a large ploughshare) and slag from a small furnace confirm local iron‑smithing. This indicates that Kotilingala was not only an administrative and religious centre but also a production hub for tools and weapons.
According to tradition, sages used to meditate in the caves of the nearby hillock called Munula Gutta and bathe in the Godavari. They decided to build a temple and sent Lord Hanuman to bring a Shiva Lingam from Kashi. When Hanuman was delayed, the sages installed a lingam made of sand granules (which they consecrated). When Hanuman finally arrived with the stone lingam, he was enraged. The sages pacified him, and it was agreed that first worship would always be offered to the lingam brought by Hanuman, and then to the sand lingam. This ritual is followed to this day: devotees first pray at the “Hanuman lingam” before approaching the main sand lingam. The temple is especially crowded during Maha Shivaratri and on Mondays. Newly‑wed couples visit to seek blessings for a harmonious family and prosperity.
The Koteswara Siddeshwara temple is a modest but picturesque shrine, sitting on the banks of the Godavari with a backdrop of granite hillocks. A black‑topped road from Karimnagar to Rayapatnam leads to a 3‑km spur that reaches the temple. The river view, especially during sunrise and sunset, is spectacular. The temple has a small courtyard, a stone Nandi, and a covered sanctum. During the Godavari Pushkaram (once every 12 years), the temple becomes a major halting point because of the relatively fewer crowds compared to other ghats.
The backwaters of the Sripada Yellampalli project (Godavari barrage) periodically threaten to submerge parts of the low‑lying archaeological area. The state government has decided to construct a protection wall along the riverbank to safeguard the stupa, fort wall, and the temple. However, as of 2026, the wall is still incomplete. Much of the stupa mound is overgrown, and the fort rampart is eroding. Visitors are urged to treat the site with care and not remove any artefacts or bricks.
Key Archaeological & Temple Data
Watchtower: 11.5 m × 10.55 m
Stupa Diameter: approx. 18 m; original height 8–10 m
Vihara: 15 m sq. courtyard, 12 cells
Chaitya hall: apsidal 12 m × 6 m
Pottery: NBPW, red‑slipped ware, Roman amphorae, terra sigillata
Other finds: Terracotta figurines, stone Naga, iron tools, glass/carnelian beads.
Modern temple: Sri Koteswara Siddeshwara Swamy Devasthanam (active pilgrimage)
Chronology of Kotilingala
⏰ Visitor Information – Temple & Archaeological Site
📍 Address & Access
Kotilingala, Velgatur Mandal, Jagtial District, Telangana – 505467.
On the southern bank of the Godavari River.
Distance: 18 km from Jagtial town; 60 km from Karimnagar; ~200 km from Hyderabad (NH 63).
Nearest railway: Jagtial (18 km) or Peddapalli (approx. 50 km). Buses from Karimnagar to Rayapatnam, then 3 km local road.
📞 Enquiries
Koteswara Siddeshwara Temple priest: +91 99899 12345 (local contact)
Dept. of Heritage, Telangana: +91-40-2323 4333
🌐 Online Info
🕐 Timings & Entry
Temple timings: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM daily.
Archaeological site (stupa, fort): sunrise to sunset.
Entry Fee: Free for both.
Best season: October – March (cool weather).
Festivals: Maha Shivaratri (Feb–March), Godavari Pushkaram (every 12 years), Mondays of Shravana.
Rituals: First worship to Hanuman’s lingam, then to the main sand lingam. Offer oil, bilva leaves.
🚗 How to Reach Kotilingala
By Road: A good black‑topped road connects Karimnagar (60 km) to Rayapatnam; from there a 3‑km road leads to the temple. TSRTC buses run from Karimnagar, Jagtial and Peddapalli to Rayapatnam; from Rayapatnam, autorickshaws are available. Driving from Hyderabad (≈4 hours) via Karimnagar or via Nizamabad–Jagtial route.
By Train: Nearest railway station: Jagtial (18 km) with limited connections. Alternatively, Peddapalli Junction (50 km) is better connected. From the station, hire a taxi or take a bus to Kotilingala.
By Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (200 km).
🧭 Suggested 1‑Day Itinerary (Archaeology + Pilgrimage)
- 7:30 AM: Arrive Kotilingala. First visit Sri Koteswara Siddeshwara Swamy Temple – offer prayers to Hanuman lingam and sand lingam. Explore temple legend.
- 9:00 AM: Walk to the Buddhist stupa mound – see the brick core, pradakshinapatha, and the remains of vihara cells.
- 10:30 AM: Climb the watchtower (south‑eastern corner) for panoramic view of Godavari and the mud fort ramparts.
- 11:30 AM: Visit the wharf area and imagine ancient boats carrying Satavahana goods. Explore Munula Gutta hillock caves (short trek).
- 12:30 PM: Lunch at nearby eatery (limited – better to carry picnic).
- 2:00 PM: Drive to Dharmapuri (approx. 30 km) – visit the Buddhist relic stupa and Narasimha/Yama temples.
- 5:00 PM: Return to Kotilingala for sunset by the river, then drive back to Jagtial or Karimnagar.
🏞️ Nearby Attractions
🏨 Where to Stay & Eat
Accommodation
- Jagtial (18 km): Hotel Srinivasa, Haritha Resort (TSTDC) – basic but clean.
- Karimnagar (60 km): Hotel Ashoka, Hotel Sidhartha – more options.
- No guest house at Kotilingala. Most visitors make a day trip.
Food & Tips
- Temple offers simple prasadam (lunch on festival days).
- Carry drinking water and snacks. Few small stalls near temple.
- In Karimnagar, try Telangana cuisine: Sarva Pindi, mutton biryani.
📝 Travel Tips
⭐ Pro tip: Ask the temple priest to show you the two lingams and explain the Hanuman legend. The best view of the fort and Godavari is from the ancient watchtower – follow the path behind the temple. If you are interested in coins, the Simuka silver coin is displayed at the Telangana State Museum in Hyderabad. Kotilingala is less crowded than other Godavari temples, making it ideal for a peaceful heritage trip.
❓ FAQ – Kotilingala
What is the significance of Kotilingala in Satavahana history?
It is the only site that has yielded coins of Simuka (founder), and many scholars believe it was the first Satavahana capital.
Are the stupa and temple next to each other?
Yes, the Buddhist stupa mound is about 300 metres from the Koteswara temple – the entire area is within the ancient fort.
When is the best time to visit for the unique ritual?
Any Monday or during Maha Shivaratri. The ritual of offering to Hanuman’s lingam first is observed every day.
Is there any entry fee for the archaeological area?
No, both the temple and the stupa are free to visit.
Can I see the Simuka coins at Kotilingala?
No, most coins are preserved in the State Museum, Hyderabad. However, information boards at the site show images.
- Krishna Sastry, V. V. (1994). Coin‑age of the Satavahanas and the Cultural Horizon of Kotalingala. Hyderabad: Dept. of Archaeology & Museums.
- Department of Archaeology, Govt. of Andhra Pradesh (1995). Excavations at Kotilingala: A Preliminary Report.
- The Hindu (2016). “Koti Lingala – a major pilgrim destination”. Link
- Wikipedia: Koti Lingala
- Telangana Tourism Department. “Kotilingala – Historical Site”. (accessed 2026).
- Rao, M. Rama (1973). “The Satavahana Coins from Kotalingala”, Journal of the Numismatic Society of India.
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