Warangal is one of the fastest developing cities in Telangana and has become a popular tourist center. The Warangal Fort is a prominent landmark that is located on the southeastern side of the Warangal city and is at a distance of 147 km from Hyderabad. This fort was built on a hillock, Ekashila during Kakatiya dynasty which dates back to the 12th century. The fort has four ornamental gates which were entrances to the great Shiva temple and are called as Kakatiya Kala Thoranam or Warangal gates. These historical arches are considered as the symbol of Kakatiya dynasty and adopted officially as the emblem of Telangana which also has Charminar with Sarnath Lion Capital. This fort is included in the tentative of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO.
In 1309, the general of Alauddin Khilji, Malik Kafur, with a large force of 100000 men attacked the fort and surrounded it. The then ruler of the Kakatiya dynasty, Prataparudra II and his people protected themselves inside the formidable fort and fought bravely for many months. Later on, Prataparudra II agreed to a truce with Malik Kafur which also included the Kohinoor Diamond. After many rulers, the fort came under the control of the Golconda’s Qutub Shahi Dynasty and later it was invaded by the Nizam of Hyderabad. The ruins of the fort are listed in the Monument of National Importance by Archaeological Survey of India.
Initially, the fort was started and built by Ganapatideva, after his death, his daughter Rudramadevi took over the charge and later the last ruler of Kakatiya Kingdom, Prataparudra II finished the fort. A piece of its kind, Warangal fort reflects the architectural brilliance that was built on a Thorean architectural style. The fort had 45 bastions of about 30 feet height each and flanked by intricate carvings before it was ruined. The highlight is the main gateway which is known as the ‘Gateway of Glory’. The carvings on the gates do not have any religious symbols, instead, they are posed with mythical animals, looped garlands, and lotus buds. With an idea of defensive fortification, the Warangal fort is laid in three concentric circular walls.
It is believed by the locals that the city of Warangal was built on a single rock and thus it is also called as Orugallu (means single stone) and the fort, Orugallu fort. As you enter into the fort, you will observe the remnants of Swayambhudevi Alayam (temple) dedicated to Lord Shiva and was built by the Qutub Shahi Kings. The original deity was a linga with 4 faces of Shiva. A huge Nandi statue is also found facing the Shiva temple. The fort’s center is identified as the archaeological zone and 150 meters near to it is the rectangular public hall, the so-called Kush Mahal, built by the Delhi Sultanate in the 14th century.
Warangal Fort Laser Show Timings
Apart from the architectural excellence of the fort, there is also a light and sound show organized inside the fort. The first show is showcased in Telugu from 6:30 PM to 7:20 PM and the second show is showcased in English from 7:30 PM to 8:20 PM. The show lets the visitors know about the historical significance of the Warangal Fort and the Kakatiya rulers. Ticket price for the light and sound show is Rs. 40 for adults and Rs. 20 for kids. The Warangal fort timings for the visitors are 10 am to 7 pm on all days of the week and Entry Fee is Rs. 15 for Indians, Rs. 200 for Foreign Tourists and Rs. 25 for Video Camera.
The Warangal Fort is only a 3-hour drive by road from the city of Hyderabad. It is located at 5km away from the Warangal railway station and is easily accessible by autos, taxis and buses. Even you can visit the thousand pillar temple which is very near to this fort.
Main Points:
Warangal fort entry timings are 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM on all days of the week
Warangal Fort Laser Show Timings are 6:30 PM to 7:20 PM (Telugu), 7:30 PM to 8:20 PM (English)
Warangal Fort Laser Show Ticket Price – 40 for adults and Rs. 20 for kids
Warangal Fort Entry Fee – Indians – Rs. 15, Foreign Tourists – Rs. 200, Video Camera – Rs. 25
Warangal Fort Just 147 km from Hyderabad, It’s only 3 hours drive by road.
Warangal Fort from Hyderabad:
