Telangana360

Mallur Hemachala Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple (photo credit: provided image) Location: Mallur Gutta and Fort are located near Mallur village, Mangapet Mandal, Mulugu district in Telangana, India. It is said to be bigger than Warangal and Golconda forts. About the Fort A sprawling ancient fort in the region is the massive 8 km-radius fort wall with seven entry points dating back to the Satavahana period. Locally known as Mallur Fort, located 4 km inside the forests near Mallur village of Mangapet mandal, Mulugu district, the fort is on the banks of the river Godavari adjacent to the Eturunagaram–Bhadrachalam highway. “Normally, forts are two to four km in radius. But this fort wall has a radius of about 8 km, much bigger than Warangal and Golconda forts.” Hemachala Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple Mallur Hemachala Lakshmi Narsimha Swamy Temple is the most ancient architectural divine ensemble which is located on the Mallur Ghat in the Mangapet mandal of Mulugu...

Devuni Gutta temple, Kothur (Photo: Deccan Chronicle) Location: Devuni Gutta temple is located about 2.5 km from Kothur village, near Jangalapalli of Mulugu mandal in Mulugu district, Telangana. This hidden hill temple is known only to locals and lies deep inside a dense forest. The trail to reach it is as fascinating as the monument itself. About the Temple The temple stands on a hill locally called Devuni Gutta . One has to trek through a forest path that turns into a small stream halfway, creating a unique water trail for nearly a kilometer. The journey reveals small waterfalls and lush greenery along the way. Atop the hill sits a beautiful structure adorned with carvings on all four sides. The temple appears brick-built but is actually composed of sand–stone blocks plastered with lime mortar. Carvings depict sages, monks, dancers, and animals — though many have eroded over time. Historians estimate the temple to be over 2,000 years old . Locals recall th...

Sri Lalitha Someswara Swamy Temple is a revered Hindu shrine located on the serene banks of the Krishna River at Somasila village, Nagarkurnool District, Telangana State, India. 🏛️ Historical Significance Believed to have been originally constructed in the 7th century, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Sri Lalitha Someswara Swamy. The ancient structure was relocated from the old Somasila village to a higher altitude to protect it from submersion during the construction of the Srisailam Dam. 🌸 Temple Complex Somasila is home to a cluster of 15 ancient temples, all dedicated to Lord Shiva. Each shrine enshrines a Shivalinga, representing various manifestations of the divine. The Shivalinga (Shivling) symbolizes eternity and the creative energy of Lord Shiva. Derived from the words Leen(dissolve) and Gati (grow), the Shivling signifies the cosmic process of dissolution and regeneration. It is believed to represent the infinite cosmic pillar of fire, a form beyon...

Buddhavanam (“Buddha + Vanam” – Buddha Forest) is a unique cultural and spiritual destination designed to capture the Buddhist heritage of the Telugu land. It combines education, spirituality, art, and tourism into a single immersive experience. The site is strategically located near Nagarjuna Sagar Dam, making it accessible to both domestic and international visitors. Telangana is part of the ancient Asmaka country, where Buddhism arrived early in Dakshinapatha. Celebrates Buddha’s life and teachings, Buddhist art schools (Amaravati, Gandhara, Madhura), and the cultural importance of Nagarjuna Konda. Features a living Buddhist community with meditation retreats, monasteries, and training centers. 📌 Location Left bank of the Krishna River, Nagarjuna Sagar, Telangana, India Area:  279 acres Operator:  Telangana State Tourism Development Corporation (TSTDC) Status:  Active Opening Hours:  Open year-round 🕉️ Major Attractions 1. Entrance Plaza & Dharmachakra ...

Alampur is a historic temple town located on the left bank of the Tungabhadra River in Jogulamba Gadwal district, Telangana. Known as the Dakshina Kashi (Southern Kashi) and the Western Gateway of Srisailam, it is surrounded by the lush Nallamala hills. Alampur is revered for its spiritual and architectural significance, housing the Jogulamba temple, one of the 18 Shakti Peethas, and the ancient Navabhrama temples. Historically, Alampur was under the rule of Shatavahana Ishvakus, Badami Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Kakatiyas, Vijayanagara Empire, and Qutb Shahis. The temples reflect a rich Chalukyan architectural style, with inscriptions dating back to the 7th century CE. 1. Jogulamba Temple Deities: Goddess Jogulamba and Balabrahmeshwara. Significance: Fifth Shakti Peetha; upper jaw of Sati is believed to have fallen here. Iconography: Goddess depicted in a fierce form, seated on a corpse, with a scorpion, frog, and lizard on her head. History: Originally destroyed in 1...

Somasila, located in Kollapur Mandal, Nagarkurnool district, Telangana, is a serene temple town and an eco-tourism destination situated on the banks of the Krishna River. The Somasila reservoir gives it an island-like feel and is perfect for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and pilgrims. Highlights Temples: 15 Shiva temples, including the famous Sri Lalitha Someswara Swamy Temple and Someshwar Swamy Temple (replica of the original submerged temple). Pushkara Snanam: Occurs once every 12 years—devotees take a holy dip in Krishna River. Backwaters & Boating: TSTDC pontoon boat services offer a five-hour cruise from Somasila to Srisailam, with lunch onboard and views of hills, forests, and riverine wildlife. Waterfalls: Nearby attractions include Mallela Teertham, Paaladhaara, and Panchadaara waterfalls. Wildlife & Eco-tourism: Route passes through Nallamala Forest, part of Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve. How to Reach From Hyderabad: 172 km (approx. 4–5 hours by ...

Saleshwaram (Sarveshwaram Teertha Kshetra) is a mystical blend of spirituality, geology, and wilderness — a place where faith meets adventure. The chants of “Vastunna Lingamayya” echo through the valleys as thousands undertake this sacred trek seeking Lord Shiva’s blessings amid pristine nature. Hidden in the heart of Nallamala Hills, Saleshwaram is one of the most sacred and ancient forest shrines of Lord Shiva, known locally as Lingamayya. Accessible only during the annual Saleshwaram Jatara (April, Chaitra Pournami), it is considered the “Dakshina Amarnath Yatra” — a southern counterpart of Amarnath for devotees of Lord Shiva. The temple is set beside a spectacular perennial waterfall cascading from a height of over 200 feet, whose source remains a mystery. The water flows directly through the sanctum before merging into the valley stream. 📍 Location District: Nagarkurnool, Telangana Mandal: Amrabad / Lingal Nearest Gate: Farahabad Gate (Amrabad Tiger Reserve) Distance: ~25–30 km f...

The Akka Mahadevi Caves are a series of naturally formed limestone caves on the northern bank of River Krishna, surrounded by lush greenery and the serene backwaters of the Srisailam Dam. Named after Akka Mahadevi, a 12th-century Kannada saint-poet and Veerashaiva philosopher, these caves are believed to be the site of her deep meditation and penance to Lord Shiva, worshipping a naturally formed Swayambhu Shiva Linga in the dark inner sanctum. 📍 Location District: Nagarkurnool, Telangana Within: Nallamala Forest / Amrabad Tiger Reserve Distance: ~18 km from Srisailam (accessible via Srisailam backwaters of the Krishna River) Alternate Name: Swayambhu Shiva Mandir 🕉️ Historical & Spiritual Significance Akka Mahadevi (12th century CE) was a mystic saint of the Veerashaiva Bhakti movement in Karnataka. Her Vachanas (devotional poems) in Kannada are considered milestones in Bhakti literature. The caves house ancient murtis of Kapala Bhairava, Veerabhadra, Mahishasura Mardini, and oth...

A Serene Wilderness Between Rivers Nallamala Hills, spanning Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, is a mesmerizing hill station wrapped in natural beauty. With shimmering waterfalls, deep valleys, and dense forests, the region captivates every visitor’s mind and soul. Situated between the Pennar and Krishna rivers, the hill range boasts two major peaks: Bhairani at 1,100 meters above sea level and Gundla Brahmeswara at 1,048 meters. For tourists traveling by road to Srisailam, the view of the Srisailam Dam, with Krishna River’s waters gushing from its gates, and a glimpse of Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy is incomplete without experiencing the dense Nallamala forest near Farahabad. Nallamala Hills offers a rare blend of wildlife, spiritual experiences, and unspoiled natural beauty, making it an unforgettable destination for travelers seeking tranquility away from urban chaos. Discover Nallamala Hills – Nature, Wildlife & Spiritual Trails Overview Nestled between the Pennar and Krishna rivers, N...

Kadalivanam Caves are located deep within the Nallamalla Forest (part of the Amrabad Tiger Reserve) in Nagarkurnool District, Telangana. The site is nestled at the foot of Srisaila Hill, on the banks of Pathala Ganga, and is considered a significant spiritual center for followers of Sri Datta Guru. Also referred to as Kadali Vanam or Kardaliwan, this site is renowned as a sacred Tapo Sthanam (meditation place) in the Srisaila region. Its importance is highlighted in classical texts like Skanda Purana, Shiva Bhakta Vijayam, and other Shaiva scriptures. Historically, Sri Nrisimha Saraswati Swamy, regarded as the second incarnation of Guru Dattatreya, concluded his earthly avatara here. Kadalivanam Caves combine natural beauty, historical depth, and spiritual significance. Nestled amidst dense forest and flowing streams, it serves as a peaceful retreat for meditation and devotion while offering insights into prehistoric human life in the Nallamalla region. 🗺️ Trekking Route to Kadalivana...

Aggalayya Gutta: A Jain Heritage and Ayurvedic Center Aggalayya Gutta, located on Padmakshi Temple Road in Hanamakonda, Hanumakonda district, Telangana, India, is a site of significant historical and religious importance. It is recognized as a major Jain heritage site and was also a flourishing Ayurvedic medicine center during the 11th century. The hillock is being developed as a Jain Vanam under the HRIDAY scheme by the Kakatiya Urban Development Authority (KUDA). Key Features and Jain Statuary The site is famous for its imposing Jain sculptures engraved on a massive boulder on the hillock. Tirthankar Shantinatha A striking 30-feet-tall statue of the 16th Jain Tirthankar, Shantinatha, is present. This statue is noted as the second tallest Tirthankara statue in South India, surpassed only by the Bahubali Tirthankara statue in Karnataka. Tirthankar Parshvanatha Also on the huge boulder stone is a 13-feet-tall statue of the 23rd Tirthankar, Parshvanatha. Mahavira A statue of the last Tir...

Rangapur Hazrath Niranjan Shah Wali Dargah is located in Rangapur village, Achampet Mandal, Nagarkurnool district, Telangana State, India A Dargah is an important and sacred shrine in Islamic culture and spirituality. Typically, it is associated with the final resting place of a revered Sufi saint. People from different religious faiths visit the holy on the occasion of the annual Urs festival every year on 17th January.

Maddimadugu Sri Pabbathi Anjaneya Swami Temple is located in Maddimadugu village, Padara Mandal, Nagarkurnool district, Telangana, India. It is a famous and well-known temple in the state and is one of the fastest-growing holistic pilgrimage centers in Nagarkurnool district. The temple is nestled deep in the Nallamala forests within the Amrabad Tiger Reserve , about 9 km from the Krishna River . Pilgrims visiting Srisailam often include this temple in their journey. A large number of devotees visit the temple throughout the year, particularly on weekends, Mondays, and Tuesdays, as well as during festivals, from across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. July 24, 2022: Telangana Endowments Department has sought tiger reserve land to build temple choultries and a marriage hall in Nallamala. Accommodation: There is currently no accommodation available at the temple itself. Visitors usually stay in Nagarkurnool or nearby towns. Temple Timings: 6 AM to 1 PM and 3 PM t...

St Joseph’s Cathedral is situated in the municipal town of Adilabad, Telanaga State, India is a world-famous church. Noted as the best cathedral church in the entire state, St. Joseph Church is visited by many locals and foreign tourists as well. St Joseph’s church is also a very popular tourist destination and people of all religions throng to the church especially on Sundays during the time of Mass. Inside the church prevails a peaceful and meditative atmosphere that makes you feel truly at one with God. A lot many people have confessed to feeling divine intervention to their problems when they come to pray at the church. Outside the church are sprawling green gardens that add an ethereal quality to the atmosphere in the church. You can find many people sitting in the lawns and meditating or reading the Bible. Many tourists also like to spend some quality time at the church despite their hectic schedule because of the tranquility that prevails in the church. https://www.nativepla...

Tourism in Telangana has very rich potential with its ancient history, art and culture, evidence of human habitation dating back to the Neolithic era.  Telangana’s rich cultural heritage, history and topography have endowed the state with a variety of tourist destinations, from waterfalls and hills to temples and forts. With affordable travel and stay, a unique albeit delicious blend of South-indian and Nizami cuisines, amusement and adventure parks, hospitality, lakes, historical attractions and medical tourism, Telangana has a little something for every visitor. The State also won four National Tourism Awards in the four categories of Best State (Comprehensive Development of Tourism), Best Golf Course (Hyderabad Gold Club), Best Railway Station (Secunderabad Railway Station) and Best Medical Tourism Facility (Apollo Hospitals) in 2022. Heritage Tourism From its ancient archaeological sites to its magnificent monuments, Telangana offers a fascinating journey through time.Telangan...

Khajaguda Hills located in Khajaguda also known as Khojaguda is a Village in Serlingampally Mandal, Rangareddy district, Telangana State, India. It is part of the old city of Hyderabad. The site is a popular spot for outdoor activities, such as hiking and bouldering. Khajaguda hills is one of the most popular weekend spots near Hyderabad. It is known for its magnificent viewpoint of Golconda and Durgam Cheruvu, peacocks, and naturally formed rocks and boulders that facilitate thrilling activities like rappelling. The hilltop offers a breathtaking view of the city below with its lush green surroundings. It is a perfect place to spend some quality time with your friends or family away from the hustle and bustle of the city life. The area also has several other attractions such as temples and caves that make it an ideal spot for nature lovers. With its pristine beauty and adventure activities, Khajaguda hills has become one of the most sought-after weekend spots in Hyderabad. Hidden away...