Born on a farm and named in a field by her parents–artist Chrisann Brennan and Steve Jobs–Lisa Brennan-Jobs’s childhood unfolded in a rapidly changing Silicon Valley.
When she was young, Lisa’s father was a mythical figure who was rarely present in her life. As she grew older, her father took an interest in her, ushering her into a new world of mansions, vacations, and private schools. His attention was thrilling, but he could also be cold, critical and unpredictable. When her relationship with her mother grew strained in high school, Lisa decided to move in with her father, hoping he’d become the parent she’d always wanted him to be.
Small Fry is Lisa Brennan-Jobs’s poignant story of a childhood spent between two imperfect but extraordinary homes. Scrappy, wise, and funny, young Lisa is an unforgettable guide through her parents’ fascinating and disparate worlds. Part portrait of a complex family, part love letter to California in the seventies and eighties, Small Fry is an enthralling book by an insightful new literary voice.
Khammam Also known as Khammamett, Khammam is the fourth largest city in Telangana, located about 193 km east of the state capital, Hyderabad. The river Munneru flows on the western side of the city. The city was previously called Stambhadri, Kambhadri, Kambham Mettu and Khammam Mettu, which was also anglicised to Commomet and Khammammet. The present name of the city has been derived from a local hill known as Stambhadri. According to legend, the Narsimhadri temple situated here on a hilltop is said to have existed for the last 1.6 million years from the time of the Treta Yug, with the city deriving its name from the vertical rock that acts as a pillar or Khamba below the temple.
According to legend, the Narsimha Swami or the Narsimhadri temple, situated on a hill called Stambhadri, is said to have existed since the last 1.6 million years with the city deriving its name from the vertical rock that acts as pillar or Khamba below the temple. The temple is open daily from 5 am to 1 pm and then between 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Initiated in 950 and completed by 1000, the Khammam Fort depicts both Muslim and Hindu architectural styles. Today, a major tourist destination, the fort, built by the Musunuri Nayaks completed 1000 years of existence and has no entrance fee. Jammalapuram is a quaint village situated about 83 km southeast of Khammam with the village housing many temples but the main temple or the Jammalapuram Temple is of Swami Venkateshwara who’s the presiding deity of the village. Nelakondapalli is an ancient Buddhist centre located about 20 km southwest of Khammam. Situated at the crest of the Deccan, the Sri Venkateshwara Swamy Temple is widely known as the Telangana’s Tirupati and was renovated by the Vijayanagar empire. The Bhaktaramadas Dhyana Mandiram is a meditation centre dedicated to the memory of Sri Bhakta Ramdas, who was born in the town. The Buddhist Maha Stupa which dates back to 350 BC was excavated in 1976 and is 54 ft tall with a radius of 106 ft. The Palair lake situated in Palair village, about 30 km from Khammam is a man-made lake and a major source of fresh water to the district. Recently it has become a popular picnic spot with water-based sports and recreational activities here.
Sprawling over almost 635 sq km, the Kinnersani Wildlife Sanctuary is nestled amidst the Dandakaranya Forest and is flanked by the River Godavari. Besides a variety of endangered flora, it is also home to many species of chousinghas, sambar, wild boars, gaurs, chinkara, cheetals, hyenas, and sloth bears. According to an old tale, Lord Rama spent some days of his exile here with the area originally known as the Dandakaranya forests of the Tretayugam, some of which are Parnasala, Rekapalli and Dummugudem. It was declared a sanctuary in 1981. The sanctuary gets its name from the Kinnerasani River which is a part of Telugu poetry and literature and which cuts through hills and valleys and then finally drains into the Godavari River. The Kinnerasani Lake lies at the heart of the sanctuary has several perennial springs known as Togus which are easily spotted. The Kinnerasani Dam stands opposite the Kinnerasani sanctuary. There is a beautiful deer park where one can see the common deer as well as the spotted deer as well as an Eco Park near the dam. There is an Environmental Education Centre in the sanctuary with large sculptures of wild animals with descriptive boards containing information on the animals. Cars and two-wheelers are allowed in the forest area with permission from the forest authorities needed. One can also take an on-foot safari, where one can walk along with the sanctuary with a forest instructor. There are several watchtowers as well in the premises of the sanctuary. There is a lake at the centre of the park where one can enjoy a ride at the Kinnerasani Lake and see the water birds. The boating facility is not available year-round and is available during certain seasons. The sanctuary is open between 7:30 am and 8:30 pm daily.
Karimnagar The fifth-largest city and the third largest and fastest-growing urban settlement in Telangana, Karimnagar is situated on the banks of the Manair River, a tributary of the Godavari River. Serving as a major educational and health hub for the northern districts of Telangana, it is a major business centre and widely known for its granite and agro-based industries and so is also called the city of granite. It is located 163 km northeast of Hyderabad.
Karimnagar was originally called Elagandala. Later Kannada kingdoms such as the Western Chalukyas ruled it and then it became part of the Satavahana Empire. When the Nizams of Hyderabad ruled the city, the name was changed to Karimnagar, which was derived from the name of Shahenshah E Karimnagar Syed Kareemullah Shah Quadrii Nithinvasi and is known for its confluence of Telugu and Persian cultures. Be it the picturesque Lower Manair Dam and the Mallareddypet waterfalls or the humanmade Nampally Gutta, Karimnagar has plenty of charming venues and activities for its visitors. It is also famous for its heritage sites such as Gandhi centenary Museum. Karimnagar is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to relive the bygone era.
Some of the popular tourist attractions include Mathani Reserve Forest, Deer Park, the Crocodile Conservation Park, Elagandal Fort and the Mallareddypet Waterfalls. The Lower Manair Dam is one of the biggest dams in the state with boating facilities. The Ujwala park and the Deer Park are near the dam with a cable bridge under construction on the Maner River.
Adilabad Famous for its cotton cultivation, Adilabad is also referred to as the white gold city and is located about 305 km north of the state capital, Hyderabad and is frequently known as the Gateway to South India. Earlier known as Edlabad during the rule of Qutub Shahis, Adilabad derives its name from the erstwhile ruler of Bijapur, Muhammad Yusuf Adil Shah. Adilabad was ruled by many dynasties like the Kakatiyas, the Mauryas, the Satavahanas, the Chalukyas, the Qutub Shahis, the Asaf Jahi’s and the Gond Rajas of Sirpur and Chanda.
At Mahatma Gandhi Park, one can relax and unwind because it is bound by lush green plants and trees. There is a statue of Mahatma Gandhi installed in the park which has a separate section for children. The Park is open between sunrise and sunset and has no entrance fees. Constructed over the Kadam River, the Kadam Dam is located where the River Godavari merges with the River Kadam. Constructed between 1949 and 1965, the dam’s main purpose is to provide water for irrigation. Also known as the Godavari North Canal Project, the dam is located in the midst of greenery, offering scenic views to its visitors. The Jainath Temple is built in the Jain style of architecture and is located 21 km from Adilabad in Jainath village. The temple is renowned for its Prakrit stone inscribed with 20 slokas that suggest that the temple was built under a Pallava chief. The temple is especially busy between the Karthika Sudda Ashtami and the Bahula Saptami. The Lord Lakshmi Narayana Swami Temple located close by is also a major shrine. Dedicated to Lord Papahareshwar Swami, one of the forms of Lord Shiva, the Kadile Papahareshwar Temple is a very famous temple. According to the legend behind the temple, Lord Parashurama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu performed penance here and surrendered to Lord Papahareshwar after beheading his mother to get rid of his sins. The temple is also known for its Shiva lingam that is installed within its premises. The Gnana Saraswati Temple is dedicated to the Goddess of learning, Gnana Saraswati. The temple is situated at the confluence of the River Godavari and the River Mangira in Basar and is an architectural marvel of the Chalukya dynasty. Believed to be the oldest temple of Goddess Saraswati in India, it is said that the sage Ved Vyas performed penance at the temple and as per legend, he used to make idols of Goddess Lakshmi, Kali and Saraswati with sand here. Situated on the banks of the River Godavari, the Gudem Satyanarayana Swamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Satyanarayana, the God of Truth. Devotees flock to the shrine during the month of Karthika with a dip in the River Godavari is taken by devotees to perform the Satyana. Located near Adilabad in Koneru, the Kalwa Narsimha Swamy Temple is a major temple with devotees visiting the temple feast on the day of Vana Bhojanam where meals are served to pilgrims sitting under the tree. The temple chariot that carries the idol of the god can also be found around the temple premises and there is a children’s park in the proximity of the temple. The temple is open daily between 5 am to 11:30 am and then between 4 to 9 pm. The St. Joseph Church is a famous church and is noted as the best cathedral church in the state. Kala Ashram was established by Ravindra Sharma where visitors can witness various traditional arts, technology and science. Visitors can also attend workshops and performances organised by the ashram related to a fading art form of Bhiksha Vruttis and also has books based on social issues based on rural society.
Gayatri Falls is a beautiful cascading waterfall over the River Kadem colloquially known as Gadidha Gundam or Mukti Gundam. The waterfalls are secretly tucked in between the deep woods of the Tarnam Khurd village and are popular for their beautiful scenic views and panoramic vistas. It also offers moderate to challenging trekking opportunities and is best visited during monsoons. The lesser-known Gayatri waterfalls is usually visited with the Pochera and Kuntala Falls situated in close vicinity. The best time to visit the beautiful waterfall is during peak monsoon. It takes a 5 km trek to get to the fall from Tarnam Khurd village and it is advisable to take a local from the village as a guide. The Kanakai Waterfalls located in Girnur village is an impassable 30 feet cascade of water streams descending from a cliff into a large pool at the bottom of the falls. An excellent trekking location with panoramic views, the falls are a perfect setting for a relaxing timeout from one’s hectic schedule. The best time to visit the waterfall is during the peak monsoon months. Regarded as one of the most scenic waterfalls in Telangana, the Kunthala Waterfalls is situated amidst the gorgeous Sahyadri mountain range. The highest waterfall in the state, it plunges from a height of 150 feet with the fall originating from the Kadam River known for its picturesque forests. According to legend, the waterfall is named after Shakuntala, who was believed to have fallen in love with king Dushyant here and who used to bathe in the fall. Since Gond tribes live here, the waterfall’s name is derived from the world Kunta which means pond in both Gondi and Tamil and the word Kuntalu means multiple ponds, as the waterfall is created by the confluence of several ponds which drains from the river. There is a 10–15-minute climb to reach the falls. Located 37 km from Nirmal, the Pochera Waterfall is the deepest waterfall of Telangana. With the white waters powerfully plummeting from the height of a whopping 20 meters, the bed of the Pochera waterfall is entirely made from the purest form of granite which gives the waterfall a slight emerald tinge. The falls are best visited during the monsoons or immediately post-monsoon.
Situated in old Adilabad, the Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its enormous variety of flora and fauna with the Kawal wildlife sanctuary tiger reserve having a rich and varied population of cheetahs. Established in 1965, the sanctuary was declared as a protected area and before becoming a reserve, it was the hunting grounds of the Nizams. The Wildlife Reserve also serves as a catchment area for the River Kadam, a tributary of the River Godavari. After being declared a wildlife reserve, the area was divided into six ranges: Kadam, Pembi, Jannaram, Indanpally, Tadlapet, and Birsaipet and was declared a tiger reserve in 2012. The sanctuary is a corridor that connects the northern forests of Telangana and the forests of Maharashtra which in turn are connected to the forests in the Vidharba region. The sanctuary houses a wide variety of plant and animal species with the animals tending to come out to open areas during colder months and this is why the best time to visit it is between November to May.
The Pranahita Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area of the Deccan Plateau that is spread across an area of 136 sq km. The sanctuary is flanked by dense forest with the Pranahita River flowing through which provides an excellent source of water. The area is also rich in diverse vegetation as well as wildlife species.
Lying on the banks of River Godavari, the Shivaram Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1987 and is famous for its marsh crocodiles, also known as mugger crocodiles. Spread over 36.2 sq km, the sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna. It is open daily from 6 am to 6 pm and there is no entry fee.
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Mahbubnagar Located in western Telangana, about 100 km southwest of Hyderabad, Mahbubnagar is the seventh most populous city in the state. Also known as Palamooru, Mahbubnagar used to be known as Rukmammpeta in ancient times.
About 29 km from Mahbubnagar, the Koilkonda Fort is in ruins today but makes for wondrous sight. One has to pass through a weathered canyon to reach the hilltop where the fort stands and pass through seven gates to reach the fort. Located 26 km from the town, Khilla Ghanpur is an ancient hilltop fort that once was part of the Vijayanagar empire. There are freshwater pools in the fort which locals, even today, use to swim and bathe. Peppered across the nearby villages, the Megalithic Burial Sites are rock shelters that haphazardly display art from the Neolithic period. The Pillala Marri Tree is a 700-year-old banyan tree that has the tomb of a Muslim saint beneath it as well as an ancient Shiva temple, a mini zoo, an aquarium as well as an archaeological museum. The tree is located about 4 km from the city. Translating to the Big Lake, Pedda Cheruvu is a scenic still water lake that is a local favourite to unwind and to picnic. The lake also serves as a shortcut to cross the city. A nursery-cum-park, Mayuri Hatham Vanam’s greenery is the perfect pause to a hectic day. Located about 23 km from Mahbubnagar, the Sri Ramakonda Temple at Koilkanda is mired in the legend surrounding its origins and features. It’s believed that a piece of the Sanjivini Hill fell over the region, leading to the establishment of this temple. Legend also say that Lord Rama visited the spot with Goddess Sita and rested on a particular rock which even today visitors meditate upon. Located in Maganoor, not far from Mahbubnagar, the Sri Swayambhu Lakshmi Venkateswara Swamy Temple is a shrine to both Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Venkateswara Swamy. It is believed that the presence of this temple allows the crops around the region to flourish and averts natural disasters.
Medak The town of Medak lies about 80 km north of the state capital of Hyderabad and was originally known as Methukudurgam or Methuku, which translates to grain in Telugu due to the growth of rice here. Spread over 130 sq km, the Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary was set up in 1952 on what was the hunting grounds of the then Nizam. Named after the Pocharam Lake formed after the Pocharam Dam was constructed on the River Allair between 1916 to 1922, the sanctuary is a scenic beauty with all the surrounding hills. The Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary provides a trekking trail that stretches over 4.5 km and passes through thick forest growth and makes up for a thrilling experience. Apart from the wildlife, there is a lot of greenery in the sanctuary as well as green vegetation with the treetops populated with migratory birds. The sanctuary is home to many species of animals and birds. There is a watchtower in the middle of the jungle from where one can get a bird’s eye view. The sanctuary is open between 8:30 am and 5:30 pm and will cost a visitor INR 300 which includes the entry fee and the services of a guide. Built in the Gothic Revival style, the Medak Cathedral is the single largest diocese in Asia and one of the most gorgeous and striking churches in India. It is believed that mosaic tiles of six different colours were used in the construction of the church were imported from Britain. The church is open from 7 am to 1 pm and then between 2 to 6 pm on weekdays while on Sundays, it is open from 6 am to 6 pm. Medak Fort is a popular tourist attraction, originally constructed by the Kakatiya Kings and later developed by the Qutb Shahi kings. In ruins today, the fort is open between 9 am to 5 pm daily. The ancient temple of Kuchadri Venkateshwara Swamy at Kuchanpally is a popular centre of the worship centre.
Merry Christmas everyone! Though I am a day late, the sentiment is the same. May the true spirit of Christmas shine in your heart and light your path.
This week was the same as last week because the children are still on holiday and so nothing really to talk about. They are going out with friends, especially catching up with those who they haven’t seen in a while and those whom they will not see for a while during this holiday.
On the work front, because almost everyone is in the holiday mood, things are pretty quiet and this means I get more time to write, though I am also in a holiday mood and there are days when I have to force myself to both write and walk.
Singapore is still reporting COVID-19 cases, especially the Omicron variant, most of which seem to come from imported cases which mean travellers entering Singapore. But the Omicron variant is still a cause of concern. Today this variant accounts for 73% of US infections, up from just about 3% last week according to the US CDC. Experts say that a double dose of the vaccine coupled with the booster jab is the key along with safe distancing, masking and having good hygiene habits to combat the variant. Israel is even starting a second booster jab for seniors above 60 as a deterrent against the Omicron variant. According to experts, this variant will become the dominant variant in 2022 as it is a much more transmissible variant. And unless everyone in the world has been double vaccinated and has had the booster jab, more variants are expected until the virus becomes endemic. So it’s quite likely our new normal will continue to be masking outdoors, having regular booster jabs and maintaining hygiene practices, especially in high-risk settings like hospitals, during travel or if new variants emerge where vaccine protection is significantly reduced.
Today’s positivity quote is courtesy of American author, Joyce Meyer who tells us one cannot have a positive life with a negative mindset. So if one has a negative mindset, one keeps thinking negative thoughts and life as being difficult, then life will not be as pleasant as one wishes. Our happiness is within us with the biggest factor of our happiness ourselves. So when one is happy internally and has positive thoughts, it reflects in the way we think, believe and act and this, in turn, reflects in our lives which automatically becomes more enriched.
That’s all from us this week. Take care, stay safe and have a wonderful last week of 2021!
On the morning of April 29, 1986, a fire alarm sounded in the Los Angeles Public Library. As the moments passed, the patrons and staff who had been cleared out of the building realized this was not the usual fire alarm. As one fireman recounted, “Once that first stack got going, it was ‘Goodbye, Charlie.’” The fire was disastrous: it reached 2000 degrees and burned for more than seven hours. By the time it was extinguished, it had consumed four hundred thousand books and damaged seven hundred thousand more. Investigators descended on the scene, but more than thirty years later, the mystery remains: Did someone purposefully set fire to the library—and if so, who?
Weaving her lifelong love of books and reading into an investigation of the fire, award-winning New Yorker reporter and New York Times bestselling author Susan Orlean delivers a mesmerizing and uniquely compelling book that manages to tell the broader story of libraries and librarians in a way that has never been done before.
In The Library Book, Orlean chronicles the LAPL fire and its aftermath to showcase the larger, crucial role that libraries play in our lives; delves into the evolution of libraries across the country and around the world, from their humble beginnings as a metropolitan charitable initiative to their current status as a cornerstone of national identity; brings each department of the library to vivid life through on-the-ground reporting; studies arson and attempts to burn a copy of a book herself; reflects on her own experiences in libraries; and reexamines the case of Harry Peak, the blond-haired actor long suspected of setting fire to the LAPL more than thirty years ago.
Along the way, Orlean introduces us to an unforgettable cast of characters from libraries past and present—from Mary Foy, who in 1880 at eighteen years old was named the head of the Los Angeles Public Library at a time when men still dominated the role, to Dr. C.J.K. Jones, a pastor, citrus farmer, and polymath known as “The Human Encyclopedia” who roamed the library dispensing information; from Charles Lummis, a wildly eccentric journalist and adventurer who was determined to make the L.A. library one of the best in the world, to the current staff, who do heroic work every day to ensure that their institution remains a vital part of the city it serves.
Warangal Located about 145 km northeast of Hyderabad, Warangal is the second-largest city in Telangana spread over 406 sq km. It served as the capital of the Kakatiya dynasty which was established in 1163. Warangal is also said to be the cultural capital of Telangana with the Kakatiya Kala Thoranam included in the emblem of the state. The three cities Kazipet, Hanamkonda and Warangal are together known as the Warangal Tri-City.
During the Kakatiya rule, Warangal was referred to as Orugallu, Ekasila Nagaram, or Omatikonda all of which meant a single stone referring to a huge granite boulder present in Warangal fort. Warangal was the ancient capital of the Kakatiya dynasty. During the rule of Ganapathideva, the capital was shifted from Hanamkonda to Warangal. When the Kakatiya dynasty was defeated by Delhi Sultanate in 1323, the ruler Juna Khan conquered the city and renamed it Sultanpur. Musunuri Nayaks recaptured Warangal in 1336 and named it Orugallu again. After the demise of the Nayaks, Warangal was part of the Bahmani Sultanate and then the Sultanate of Golconda. Warangal was part of Andhra Pradesh until 2014 when it became part of Telangana.
The Thousand Pillar Temple is an ancient temple tucked away in a small town named Hanamakonda. As the name suggests, the temple has over one thousand pillars, some of which are part or extensions of adjacent pillars. These pillars are so tightly knit, they form the walls of the temple. Constructed in a star-shaped style, the temple also contains a huge monolith Nandi or the sacred bull of Lord Shiva, made up of black basalt stone. The three shrines located in the temple are together known as the Trikootalayam. A fine example of Kakatiyan and Chalukyan architecture styles, the three presiding deities in this temple are Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and Lord Surya or the Sun God. The temple was built to placate the followers of both the Shaivites and the Vaishnavites. The temple which is built on the slopes of the Hanamaonda hill has a unique star-shaped base which brings to mind the Kakatiya architectural style. The pillars are in perfect symmetry and design with intricate carvings and designs on each pillar. The main shrines have sculptures of rock-cut elephants guarding them on each side, and there are beautiful carvings of the elephants on many pillars too. A six feet tall Nandi, the vehicle of Lord Shiva, made from a single huge black basalt rock, greets devotees at the entrance. The main shrine of the temple is held up by 400 pillars. The temple is built using the sandboxing technique, where a huge pit is dug up and filled with sand and covered with huge rock beams. Then on this strong platform, the base of the structure is made by erecting tall beams and columns. This uniquely Kakatiya invention provides an unshakeable base for the structure and makes it long-standing. The temple is open from 5 am to 9 pm daily.
Located about 77 km from Warangal in the heart of the ancient capital of the Kakatiya dynasty, the Ramappa Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and believed to have been constructed over in 1253, forty years after construction began in 1213 by the Kakatiya Chief Commander, General Recherla Rudra Samani during the rule of Ganapati Deva. The temple is an exquisite example of the Kakatiya style of architecture and is covered in detailed carvings depicting life in those times. 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 one enters the temple, they 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 with two smaller Shiva shrines found on either side of the main temple, although both are in ruins. The temple has been designed to be elevated above its surroundings on a high star-shaped platform with three entrances to the main sanctum, each of which is flanked by detailed statues and carvings built of sandstone. Three distinct sections, 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. The roof of the temple is built with ultralight bricks, light enough to float on water. The temple is open between 6 am to 6 pm daily.
One of the ten manifestations of the Supreme Goddess, the Bhadrakali Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali. Constructed in 625 by King Pulakesin II of the Chalukya dynasty to commemorate his conquest of the Vengi region, the temple is set in a beautiful locale with a natural rock formation and a vast lake. Unlike most of the temples of the Goddess and her various manifestations in South India, the deity of this temple does not have a calm and soothing ambience. The temple enshrines the Goddess Kali, the Mother Goddess adorned with weapons in all eight arms with the Goddess in the sitting position with a crown on her head. The temple fell into ruins after the Chalukyas and Kakatiyas but was restored by Sri Ganapati Shastri in the 1950s. It is said that when the holy chants are pronounced with utmost devotion in the temple, it makes the stone deity transform itself to its Tripura Sundari avatar which is the culmination of all the feminine powers of beauty, nature, and fertility and is the foremost face of Adi Shakti in Shaktism faith. The elementary pillars and the Ekanda Shila or the use of a single piece of stone for the main deity reminds one of the Chalukyas, while the intricate carvings are the contribution of the Kakatiyas. The single dark stone has the Goddess seated within the sanctum sanctorum with weapons in her eight hands, the bejewelled crown on her head and a calm and soft look on her face, but with an underlying fieriness. Opposite the Sanctorum or the Garbha Griha is a statue of the Supreme Goddess’ ever-faithful and loyal pet vehicle – the fierce lion. The temple also has shrines of other Gods carved out of stone. The temple is open from 5:30 am to 1 pm and then from 3 to 8 pm.
Dating to the 12th century and dedicated Goddess Padmakshi, the Padmakshi Temple has an exquisite architecture with the Annakonda Pillar, a quadrangular pillar standing at the entrance of the structure that is just as fascinating as the temple.
The Siddeshwara Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located close to Hanamkonda with stunning architecture that bears resemblance to the Chalukyan style of architecture. The temple pillars have been intricately carved out. An important Shivaite temple, devotees throng here during the Maha Shivarathri festival.
An ancient temple built around 1104, the Sri Veeranarayana Temple enshrines Shri Veeranarayana, considered to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. An important Vaishnava temple, the temple architecture is reminiscent of the Chalukya style of architecture. It is claimed that this was an ancient Jain temple that was later converted to a Hindu temple with beautiful carvings on the walls of the temple.
The Sri Vidya Saraswathi Shani Temple complex has shrines dedicated to Goddess Saraswathi, Lord Shani, Lord Ganesha and Lord Shiva. The complex was built by a scholar of astrology and an ardent devotee of the Goddess and has a famous Victory Pillar which bears sculptures of Lord Rama, Goddess Sita, Lord Lakshmana, and Goddess Lakshmi.
An ancient temple dedicated to Mallikarjun Swami believed to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva, the Inavolu Mallanna Temple was built by the Karkatiya Kings in the 11th century. The temple architecture is beautiful with carvings on the pillars and the walls. The annual Mallana Jatra is celebrated with great enthusiasm at the temple.
The Rayaparthy Shiva Temple is an 18th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva with beautiful architecture, inscriptions and carvings amidst a scenic location. The Kulpakji Jain Mandir is an ancient temple considered to be of great significance to the Jain community. It is believed that the original idol of Lord Adinath was installed here and the temple complex houses idols of eight Jain Tirthankaras. The stunning temple architecture with stone carvings draws tourists in large numbers.
Govindarajan Gutta is a hill surrounded by dense forestation which is a treat for nature walks and trekking with breathtaking views of the city from the top. There is a small temple dedicated to Lord Rama on the hill.
The unique Kakatiya Musical Garden is located close to the Bhadrakali Temple and is a massive garden, covering over 15 acres. A visually pleasing musical fountain with colourful lights is the main attraction as well as a mammoth rock and an artificial waterfall in the rock structure. There is also a man-made lake which has boating facilities. The musical fountain begins at 7pm daily. The Kakatiya Rock Garden is a beautiful garden with many rock structures including statues of deers, lions, giraffes, sambars and antelopes. There is also a children’s playground in the garden.
Lying around 50 km from Warangal is the beautiful Pakhal Lake spread over 30 sq km. This man-made lake built during the Kakatiya Dynasty by King Ganapati Deva in 1213 is set amidst lush green forests and hills and borders a wildlife sanctuary, the Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary, established in 1952. The Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary is spread over 839 sq km and consists of rare flora and fauna including leopards, wild boars, panthers, hyenas, cobras and monitor lizards and various kinds of herbs, shrubs, and climbers. A local favourite picnic spot, the lake and the sanctuary is beautiful making it perfect to take photographs. There is also boating available in the lake. The lake is open between 6 am and 6 pm daily.
Laknavaram Cheruvu or Laknavaram Lake is another man-made tucked away in Govindaraopet, 80 km from Warangal straddling an area of 10,000 acres. Built by the Kakatiya kings when Warangal was their capital, the lake has 13 small islands spread within the lake and three 160-meter-long individual suspension bridges that connect 3 islands with each other and to the main shore. Enjoy boating at the lake with a variety of boats like pontoon boats, deluxe boats, motorboats and speed boats.
Located about 70 km from Laknavaram Lake, the Bogatha Waterfalls are in the heart of a forest and are said to be the second-largest waterfalls in the state. Colloquially called as the Telangana Niagara, the falls experience water flow throughout the year and usually cascades down in 3 to 4 white ribbons along with several smaller streams and are best enjoyed in the months of June to November when the waterfall is in its glory. There is an unmotorable stretch of rocky terrain on the road just before the waterfall, so the waterfall can be accessed by a short trek. Swimming is permitted in the underlying pond in a separate safe zone away from the waterfall.
A prominent landmark in the city, the Warangal Fort is located between Warangal & Hanamkonda. This 12th-century fort’s main highlights are the four ornamental gates, which are now the official emblem of the state. In ruins today, the fort still reflects the history, grandeur and architectural pre-eminence of the Kakatiya dynasty. The fort was built by the Kakatiya ruler, Ganapatideva, and after he died in 1262, his daughter Rudrama Devi took over the charge of the construction of the fort and then the kingdom. However, it was King Prataparudra II, also known as Rudradeva II and the last ruler of the dynasty who finished the fort’s construction. The fort flaunted 45 grand pillars flanked by intricate carvings. The Gateway of Glory, the main gateway was built of four elaborately carved pillars constructed out of a single rock, around 30 feet in height. These majestic gateways were also known as Kirti Toranas and stood as a symbol of the South Indian architectural style. Inside the fort is the remnants of the Swayambhudevi Alayam temple of the Temple of Mother Earth, built by the Qutub Shahi kings, after conquering the fort. The Swayambhu Devalayam, a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva built-in 1162 is located in the middle of the fort and is flanked by awe-inspiring sculptures. The fort also houses another Shiva temple, the Shambhulingeshwara Temple, located opposite to the open-air museum with a huge statue of a Nandi bull facing the temple with the space between the Nandi and the temple used as a platform for artists. Most of the sculptures carved on the pillars of this fort follow a similar pattern, with each stone divided into different sections, and each section flaunting beautiful sculptures such as a lion, elephant, statues of dancers etc. The fort is built as a 3-layered fortification and was protected by three circular walls, with the first wall built during the rule of Rudrama Devi. There is a light and sound show daily with the first show in Telugu between 6:30 and 7:20 pm and the second show in English from 7:30 to 8:20 pm with tickets costing INR 40 for adults and INR 20 for children. The fort is open daily from 10 am to 7 pm and entrance fees are INR 15 for Indians, INR 200 for foreigners and a video camera fee of INR 25.
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The Mini Zoo was built in 1985 and is spread over 50 acres with a number of species of animals, reptiles and birds. The zoo has now been converted into a National Zoological Park and also houses an enchanting Butterfly Park.
One of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in Telangana, the Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary is located about 110 km northeast of Warangal and was declared as a wildlife sanctuary in 1953. The Dayyum Vagu River flows through the sanctuary which has some steppes and gentle slopes. The park has a historical significance due to the existence of tree fossils in caves and in the Sarvai area. Spread over 806 sq km and believed to be one of the rarest eco-regions around the world, three-quarters of the sanctuary is covered in rising and falling plains and dense forest formation while the remaining quarter comprises springs and streams. The sanctuary is also very famous for the largest tribal Jatra of Asia known as the Sammakkka Sarakka Jathra which takes place once every two years. The wildlife sanctuary is dense with wealthy biodiversity rich in both flora and fauna with ephemeral teak wood, and many exotic and rare wild animals. The sanctuary is also known for it being able to accommodate the biggest population of gaurs also known as the Indian bovid in the state. October to May is the best time to visit the sanctuary which has provisions for cottages and rest houses that will allow visitors to live amidst the wilderness. The sanctuary is open between 8 am to 5:30 pm and entry fees are INR 10 for an adult and INR 5 for a child and there are boating packages available in the sanctuary.
Medaram is a tiny village of approximately 3000 people and is well known for its Sammakka Sarakka Jatara, Asia’s biggest biennial tribal fair. This three-day festival begins on a full moon day, also called the Shuddha Purnima day and dates back to when a fierce conflict took place between two tribes, the Koyas and the Kakatiyas. A woman called Sammakka, who belonged to the Koya tribe, fought for her tribe and resisted oppression and suppression by the Kakatiyas. Sammakka was hailed as a goddess and Sarakka was Sammakka’ s daughter. This festival is celebrated to commemorate their sacrifice for their people. The Jatara is a 1000-year-old landmark festival and is a peek into the tribal culture of Medaram. Important places to visit in Medaram include the Jampanna Vagu, which is a water pass that flows through the forest region and taking a dip in this water pass is considered holy. The Sammakka temple is devoted to the tribal goddess also known as Saralamma. The Laknavaram Lake and the Ramappa temple are also located nearby.
Nizamabad 175 km north of the capital city of Hyderabad, Nizamabad is the third-largest city in the state and a major urban agglomeration. Derived from the Nizam of Hyderabad, where Nizam means the Asaf Jahi VI who ruled during the 18th century and was the second Nizam of Hyderabad. The city is also known as the city of the Nizams. The city was founded in 1905 when the Nizam’s dominion was recognized, previously it used to be known as Indur after King Indradatta who ruled this region during the 5th century.
The Mallaram Forests are a lush green environment located about 7 km southwest of Nizamabad with rocks that are about a billion years old. Forest treks, pagodas, viewpoints to watch the wild animals and moonlit dinners are the main attractions of this place and the breathtaking views from the hillocks will surely leave one reluctant to leave the forest. Also located 7 km southwest of Nizamabad, the Nizamsagar dam is constructed on the River Manjira, a major tributary of the Godavari River. With exquisite gardens on either side of the dam and cosy accommodation facilities, one can spend an entire day here and a slow boat ride on the serene water is truly a liberating experience. The perfect picnic getaway, Alisagar, is located about 13 km from Nizamabad. A sprawling 33 acres garden, complete with flora, a deer park and a lake, Alisagar, built by the Nizam of Hyderabad and is close to the Nizamabad fort, built by the Rashtrakutas of the 10th century. On top, there is a Quilla temple also built by the kings of the Rashtrakuta dynasty during the 10th century. While the Kalyani Chalukyas added Hindu elements to the temple, the Kakatiya rulers restored the temple. Ashoksagar is famous for its rock gardens is located about 7 km from Nizamabad. There is a fifteen feet tall statue of Goddess Saraswati, erected in the middle of the lake, which is a spectacular sight in the moonlit as well as a well-kept children’s park. The Neelakanteshwara temple is a classic example of Jain, Vaishnavaite and Shivaite architecture styles built around 10 AD by the Satavahana king Satakarni and an important shrine for Jains and is located on top of a hillock. Atop the Limadri Gutta is the temple dedicated to Lord Sri Narasimha Swamy Temple. Built by the Kalyani Chalukyas, the Sri Chakreshwara Temple is a famous Shiva temple. The Hanuman temple in Sarangapur village is said to have its foundation laid by the saint Samartha Ramdas, the Guru of the Maratha King Chatrapathi Shivaji about 450 years back and is famous for its Ramnavam festival.
Memories and Such 
