Ramappa Temple Warangal | Images, History, Timings

Ramappa Temple, Warangal Overview

The magnificent structure of Ramappa Temple is situated about 77 kilometres away from the main city of Warangal, right in the heart of the ancient capital of the Kakatiya Dynasty. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is believed to have been constructed over a period of 40 years. It was built by General Recherla Rudra during the period of the Kakatiya ruler Ganapati Deva. The edifice of Ramappa Temple is an exquisite example of Kakatiya style of design and is covered in detailed carvings that depict the life in the olden times. The intricate architecture and mighty foundation has stood the test of time and is a wonderful look into the culture and history of Hyderabad.

Also known as the Ramalingeswara temple, it derives its name from the sculptor Ramappa who built the statue of Shiva and started the worship of the deity here. As you enter the premises, you are welcomed by two delicate statues of dancers striking graceful poses. A massive 9 feet Shivalinga is enshrined in the temple and is the main deity here as well. Two other smaller Shiva shrines can also be found on either side of the main temple, although both are in ruins. The Nandi inside the temple appears to be alert, ready to follow the order of the lord and has survived the test of time.

History of Ramappa temple

The Ramappa Temple dates back to 1213 AD and was built by Chief Commander Rudra Samani under the authority of Kakatiya ruler Kakati Ganapathi Deva. The temple derives its name from the sculptor Ramappa who built the statue of Shiva here and highlighted the importance of the worship of the deity, thus superseding the preceding deity Ramalingeshwara. The construction of the temple saw completion in the year 1253, forty years after it first began. The time invested in laying the foundaion was a worthy investment indeed, as the temple has managed to remain intact even after repeated plunder, wars and natural disasters. The only damage suffered by Ramappa Temple can be attributed to an earthquake which struck the region in the 17th century, besides which the building stands strong even today.

Architecture of Ramappa temple

The architecture of the Ramappa Temple is a marvellous example of Kakatiya style of architecture, with the temple designed to be elevated above its surroundings on a high star-shaped platform. There are three entrances to the main sanctum of the temple, each of which is flanked by detailed statues and carvings. Built out of sandstone, these statues illustrate many things ranging from daintily Mandakinis to mythical animals. Three distinct sections, namely Antaral, Maha Mandap and Garbhagrih together constitute the Ramappa Temple.

The walls of the temple are adorned by carvings that are also found on the pillars and ceilings. Lotus motifs, elephants in different poses and images of Gods such as Narasimha and Ganesha embellish the many pillars that hold the ceiling of Ramappa temple in place. Prominent among these are the sculptures of Hindu mythology that cover the temple from its base all the way to its wall panels and ceiling. The roof of the temple is built with ultra light bricks, light enough to float on water. The statue of Shiva's celestial bull Nandi can be seen guarding the premises as well.

Photography

How To Reach Ramappa Temple

There are no direct buses from Warangal to Ramappa Temple, however, you can hop aboard a bus to Mulug from where you can take a bus to Palampet. The bus will drop you at the entrance of the temple from where you can take an autorickshaw to the temple which lies 2 kilometres away from the entrance. If you plan to drive your way to the temple, you can take NH202 to Etunagaram and then to Jangalapalli and finally to Ghanapuram. Here you will find the entrance of the temple from where you need to drive another 2 kilometres to reach your destination.

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Ramappa Temple Reviews

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MD Shafi

on Ramappa Temple 4 years ago

Worst management by Government body there nd local people with un lawful permission by grampanchayat letter blocking road for parking fee for broken road passage all places in surrounding in critical (Read More) stage Don't go there near lake side no one is even allowed to go near by also Then repair first maintain at least basic facilities then reopen it What on earth is the Mulugu District IAS nd other officers doing