Warangal travel guide

History

The city was probably laid out during the reigns of King Ganapatideva (1199-1262) and his daughter Rudrammadevi (until 1294). Warangal was captured by armies from Delhi in 1323, enforcing the payment of tribute. Control of Warangal fluctuated between Hindus and Muslims but between the 14th and 15th centuries it remained in Bahmani hands. Thereafter it repeatedly changed hands, and some argue that although the military fortifications were repeatedly strengthened, the religious buildings were largely destroyed, including the great Siva temple in the middle of the city. Marco Polo was highly impressed by Warangal’s riches, and it is still famous for the remains of its temples, its lakes and wildlife, and for its three circuits of fortifications. The modern town itself, however, is not very interesting.

Bus

Frequent buses to Hyderabad (3½ hrs) and Vijayawada (7 hrs).

Train

Many Express trains stop here. Chennai (MC): Tamil Nadu Exp 2622, 2101, 10 hrs. Delhi (ND): Tamil Nadu Exp 2621, 0724, 24 hrs; Nagpur: Several daily 7½-8½ hrs. Secunderabad: Vijaywada Secunderabad Intercity Exp 2713, 0902, 2½ hrs; Konark Exp 1020, 0735, 3½ hrs; Golconda Exp 7201, 1012, 3½ hrs; Krishna Exp 7405, 1704, 3½ hrs. Vijayawada: Kerala Exp 2626, 1140, 3¼ hrs.