Nalgonda is a place you need to land on your vacation if you look to have a blend of various elements on your tour. Nalgonda is associated with rich history and the influences of various dynasties are evident in the architectural splendor seen in the formidable forts. It is located between two hills offering you a great scope for trekking and stimulates the adventurer in you. It has ancient temples constructed ages ago to add a touch of spiritualism to your trip. The serene atmosphere and the rich cultural association evident in their temples and forts make the place rank amongst the attractive tourist destinations. Here are top 8 places to visit in Nalgonda.
1. Deverakonda Fort
Presently in ruined state, Deverakonda Fort was once formidable being located amidst seven hills. The fort might be your first choice if you have an archaeological eye. Constructed somewhere around the 13th and 14th centuries, the fort was entirely under the control of Padma Nayaka Kings from 1287 AD to 1482 AD defeating all attempts made to conquer. Though now in ruins, the fort tells a lot about the valiant kings of the past.
2. Bhongir Fort
Spread in a sprawling 40-acre land, Bhongir Fort is situated on a rock that stands isolated. Located at 500 feet altitude, the 12th century fort offers stunning view of the city around. It was constructed by Tribhuvanamalla Vikramaditya, the Sixth and was named after the king as Tribhuvanagiri. Now the fort is called Bhongir. You will find that this fort to be in ruins as well but whatever is left of it stands proof for the sheer excellence in architecture that the people of the past possessed. The isolated rock that houses the fort is egg shaped and the two gateways for the forts are protected by large sized rocks. This made the fort impregnable.
3. Rachakonda Fort
Yet another ruined fort, which was at the height of glory in the past. Belonging to the 14th century, the fort still attracts visitors in spite of its ruined state. It was built by Recherla Singama Nayak. Some of the fine specimens that highlight the style of Kakatiya architecture are seen here. The trek towards the fort is sure to offer some awesome experience.
4. Mellachervu
Mellachervu village is located near Nalgonda. The place acquires importance as it houses famous temples, which display marvelous architecture. The temples were constructed during the reign of Kakatiya kings. Out of the many temples seen here, Swayambhu Sambhulingeswara Swami Temple is very famous as the lingam in the temple has a 2-inch hole, which is filled with water throughout the year. The place is hence called ‘Varanasi of the South’. It is also believed that temple grows in height and for every foot it grows, a round line is formed.
5. Pillalamari
This ancient village in Nalgonda is famous for excellent temples constructed during the rule of Kakatiya kings. The temples, though ravaged over time due to various factors, still speak of the glorious architectural style of the Kakatiya dynasty. Chennakesava Swami Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, has stood the test of times to display the brilliance of Kakatiyan style of architecture. The carvings in the temples and the pillars and the beautiful paintings are awe-inspiring.
6. Nagarjuna Sagar Dam
Telangana owes its famous title ‘Rice Bowl of India’ to Nagarjuna Sagar Dam, which plays a lead role in making the lands of the state fertile. The 124-meter high dam is the tallest masonry dam in the world. This also ranks third in the largest man-made lakes of the world and it involved around 70000 workers to complete the project. The dam came into use in 1972 after completion in the year 1969. The marvelous architecture involved in storing massive amount of the waters of Krishna River necessitates a visit to this place.
7. Ethipothala Waterfalls
Having visited Nagarjuna Sagar Dam, it would be unwise to leave out Ethipothala Waterfalls, which is situated around 11km from the dam. This 60-meter high waterfall is growing in stature as a star tourist attraction not only for the scenic beauty it has to offer but also for other attractions it holds. You could find many cave temples around this hillside. It offers wonderful scope for trekking and camping. The place houses a crocodile-breeding center as well.
8. Kolanupaka
Kolanupaka, which was a capital of the Kalyani Chalukyas during 11th century, has many attractions for minds that seek architectural delights. Kolanupaka Jain Temple is an ancient temple aging over 2000 years. If you love for architecture, you would love this temple, which displays architectural magnificence with beautiful carvings and artisanship. This temple was renovated recently employing over 150 artisans from the land of Rajasthan and Gujarat. Other famous temples seen here are Someswara Temple and Sri Veeranarayana Temple. A state run museum inside Someswara Temple complex presents excellent specimens that reflect Kakatiyan architecture.
On visiting the tourist places in Nalgonda, you are sure to have an essence of the life and style of the people who lived and died here – in glory and in defeat. The ruthless war takes its toll on various monuments that otherwise would have lived to glorify the architectural skills of the past. You cannot help feel a sense of sadness at the sight of the forts but relax, the breathtaking nature is going to adequately compensate on your tour to Nalgonda.
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