5 offbeat tourist destinations in Telangana
India's youngest state, Telangana, is known as the jewel of the Deccan plateau. With a rich history, traditions and diverse religions and cultures, the state of Telangana offers historical and divine destinations, natural picturesque locations, and exotic wildlife to its tourists. If you're heading to Telangana anytime soon, make sure to visit the following offbeat destinations, and thank us later!
Pakhal Lake, Warangal
Believed to have been built in 1213 A.D by order of the Kakatiya King Ganapathidev, Pakhal Lake covers an area of 30 sq km. The Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary surrounding the lake is spread over an area of 900 sq km. Situated among forested undulating hills, the lake has been of immense importance to the local fauna--crocodiles, panthers, leopards, and migratory birds.
Kuntala Waterfalls, Adilabad
Kuntala Waterfalls is located on the Kadam river and is the highest waterfall in Telangana with a height of 50 meters. Kunta in Gondi and Telugu means pond, whereas kuntalu means many ponds. The waterfall originates from a convergence of multiple ponds. You can reach the falls via a proper road, however, you must take the steps to reach the bottom of the falls.
Bhongir Fort, Nalgonda
The Bhongir Fort is known for its fascinating features--trap doors, ponds, a secret chamber, stables, and more. It was built by Tribhuvanamalla Vikramaditya IV in 1076 CE. The fort stands atop a unique monolithic rock at a height of around 500 feet and is spread across 50 acres. According to hearsay, there was once an underground corridor between Bhongir Fort and Golconda Fort.
Ramagiri Fort, Karimnagar
The hilltop fort of Ramagiri is located over a mountain in the Karimnagar district. Built by the Kakatiyas of Warangal in the 12th century, the fort is surrounded by a thick forest that has several beneficial plant species, including medicinal herbs. It has been suggested that the forest of the fort area be declared a Medicinal Plants Conservation Center.
Dhulikatta, Karimnagar
Dhulikatta is famous for the Buddhist Mahastupa that was established at the end of the second century BC. The remains of this ancient stupa are still apparent in several places. Several other things such as the punched coins from the Satavahana dynasty, beads, ivory combs, bangles, and silver jewelry have been unearthed in the excavations around the Mahastupa.
