Telangana360

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 ...

Mallela Theertham is a stunning natural waterfall nestled deep within the Nallamala Forests of Telangana. Surrounded by high mountains, dense deciduous forests, and rocky hills, this pristine location is a perfect mix of nature, adventure, and spirituality. The waterfall cascades from a height of 150 feet, creating a serene atmosphere for picnics, bathing, and trekking. Mallela Theertham is a hidden gem in Telangana, combining nature, spirituality, and adventure. With its cascading waterfalls, dense forest cover, and scenic trekking paths, it makes for a perfect day trip from Hyderabad. Ideal for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to escape the city buzz. Location: Near Vatuvarlapalli village, 8 km off Hyderabad–Srisailam highway, Mahabubnagar district, Telangana Distance from Hyderabad: ~140 km Distance from Srisailam: ~40–50 km Best time to visit: October to February Highlights & Attractions Mallela Theertham Waterfall 150-foot high waterfall surrounded by dense ...

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 ...

Farahabad View Point lies deep inside the Amrabad Tiger Reserve, once a hunting retreat of the Nizams of Hyderabad. Today, it serves as a serene eco-tourism hub offering a glimpse into the heart of the Nallamala Forests, overlooking Mallucheruvu Lake. The place is an eco-adventure paradise — ideal for those who enjoy nature walks, jungle safaris, and camping under starry skies surrounded by the calls of the wild. 🏞️ Overview Location: Near Munnanur, Amrabad Mandal, Nagarkurnool District, Telangana Altitude: ~914 meters (3,000 feet) above sea level Meaning: Farahabad literally means “Mount Pleasant” Best For: Eco-tourism, Jungle Safari, Adventure Camping, Bird & Wildlife Watching Distance: Hyderabad → Farahabad View Point: ~156 km (≈4 hours by road) Hyderabad → Munnanur (Reserve Entry Point): ~138 km 🐅 Safari Details Safari Route: 9 km from Farahabad Entrance Gate Timings: ⏰ 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Daily) Safari Duration: ~2 hours Safari Cost: ₹800 (per 2 hours per vehicle) Highlights:...

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...

Nestled in the lush Nallamala Hills of Telangana, the Amrabad Tiger Reserve (ATR) spans 2,760 sq. km and stands as India’s second-largest tiger reserve. A part of the Western Ghats eco-zone, this wilderness is a haven of ancient forests, deep valleys, sacred caves, and rich wildlife. Once part of the old Nagarjunasagar–Srisailam Tiger Reserve, ATR now shelters diverse life forms — from royal Bengal tigers, leopards, and sloth bears to yellow-throated bulbuls and rare orchids. Its terrain is dotted with spectacular viewpoints, mystical caves, and serene waterfalls like Mallela Theertham and Saleshwaram Falls. With eco-tourism facilities at Mannanur, guided safari rides, and community-based jungle stays, visitors can immerse themselves in raw nature while experiencing the living spirit of the Nallamala forest traditions. An ideal blend of adventure, ecology, and heritage, Amrabad Tiger Reserve invites explorers, nature lovers, and spiritual seekers to discover the wild soul of Telangana....

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...

Devarakonda Fort is located in Devarakonda town in the Nalgonda district of Telangana, India. Devarakonda, serving as a Mandal headquarters, is a small village that is home to one of the most astonishing forts in the region. Once a towering symbol of the village’s glory, the fort now lies in ruins due to neglect, yet it continues to attract tourists from across the world. Historically, Devarakonda Fort served as a prominent defensive structure for the Recherla Nayaks dynasty, who ruled parts of Telangana after the fall of the Kakatiya dynasty. For history enthusiasts, a visit to Devarakonda Fort is like stepping into a living historical narrative, where every corner of the fort tells tales of bravery, struggles, and the triumphs of its rulers. Inside the fort premises stand the Rama and Shiva temples, constructed by Maada Naidu, adding a sense of spirituality and serenity to the historic site. Visitors are also treated to the picturesque view of a small pond within the fort area. Arc...

The Domakonda Samsthanam (1636 CE - 1948 CE), initially known as Bikkavolu Samsthan, was a princely state situated in the Nizamabad region (now Kamareddy district) of Telangana. It was ruled by the Kamineni dynasty of the Pakanati Reddis, who were close relatives of the Gadwal and Atmakur rulers. The Samsthan was a significant administrative and cultural center under the ultimate authority of the Qutb Shahis and later the Asif Jahis (Nizams). The focal point of the Samsthanam is the Domakonda Fort, which received the UNESCO Asia – Pacific Award of Merit for Cultural Heritage Conservation in 2022. Founder : Raja Kama Reddy or Kamineni Chaudary in 1636 AD Capitals : Bikkavolu, Kamareddypeta, Domakonda Dynasty : Pakanati Reddis. Family Relation: Close relatives of Gadwal and Atmakur rulers. Gotra : Rachulla was their Gotra. Presiding Deity : Bikkavolu Siddarameshwar a . Ruled from Domakonda 1786 CE - 1948 CE 1. Origins and Rise The history of the fort predates the Kamineni rulers. c. 10...

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...

Dokra (also spelled Dhokra) metal craft is one of the most fascinating tribal art forms of India, and it holds a special place in the cultural fabric of Telangana. This ancient art, renowned for its rustic beauty and timeless charm, is especially practiced in the tribal regions of Adilabad district. The craft derives its name from the Dhokra Damar tribes, traditional metal-smiths who create exquisite artifacts using the unique lost wax casting technique — a method that has remained unchanged for centuries. GI Tag (Geographical Indication) The Adilabad Dokra craft has received official international recognition by being awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. GI Tag Status : Awarded Year of Award : 2018 (specifically, the GI tag was accorded on March 28, 2018). Significance: The GI tag certifies that the product originates from the Adilabad region of Telangana and possesses a quality, reputation, or characteristic unique to that geographical area. This legal protection prevents ...

Pembarthi: The Village Where Brass Sings the Song of Kakatiyas Nestled within the Jangaon district of Telangana, the village of Pembarthi—often spelled Permbarti—is a humble locale with a towering reputation. It is a place where tradition is not merely preserved but actively forged, quite literally, in gleaming brass. World-famous for its intricate and exquisite brassware craftsmanship, Pembarthi is a testament to the enduring power of hereditary skill. The air here vibrates with the rhythmic clink and tap of mallets, as artisans transform dull brass sheets into fascinating and wonderful objects of art and utility, ranging from idols and figurines to utilitarian utensils and decorative pieces. In 2023, the village was celebrated for its sustainable development and tourism appeal, earning the Best Tourism Village award in the Silver Category. History and Heritage The craftsmanship of Pembarthi is a direct link to the glorious past of the region, specifically the Kakatiya dynasty. The fo...